How to become an esthetician in Alabama
Alabama estheticians are licensed by the Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed esthetician in Alabama, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become an esthetician in Alabama?
- At least 16 years old
- Completed at least 10 grades of secondary school (or equivalent, e.g. GED)
- U.S. citizen or legally present in the U.S.
Alabama esthetician license requirements
| Licensed by | Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering |
|---|---|
| License name | Esthetician |
| Education or training | 1,000 clock hours of skin care instruction at a licensed esthetics or cosmetology school, or a 2,000-hour apprenticeship under an esthetician licensed at least 5 years (over 3 years); hours cannot be combined. |
| Exam | Written exam and practical exam, scheduled through PSI after the board approves the written exam application; both must be passed within 2 years of finishing training. |
| License term | 2 years; expires the last day of the licensee's birth month in odd-numbered years |
| Continuing education | No continuing education requirement for licensees appears in the board's law and rules (compilation through Oct. 15, 2026); instructor CE is referenced separately. |
| Reciprocity | Out-of-state licensees apply by reciprocity ($100) with certification sent directly from their current state; the board decides whether the practical exam only or both exams are required. Alabama law also includes the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, and an Esthetics Licensure Compact article listed as effective October 1, 2026. |
How much does it cost?
| Written examination or reexamination | $75 |
|---|---|
| Practical examination or reexamination | $130 |
| Original license | $50 |
| Personal renewal | $100 |
| Apprentice permit | $75 |
| Reciprocity (out of state) | $100 |
| Reciprocity (out of country, includes written exam fee) | $175 |
| Late fee | $54 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become an esthetician in Alabama
- Confirm you are at least 16 and have completed 10th grade (or equivalent).
- Complete 1,000 school hours with an Alabama-licensed school, or register an apprenticeship with the board ($75 permit).
- Have your school or sponsor submit the written exam application with your documents and the $75 fee.
- Schedule and pass the written exam with PSI.
- Schedule and pass the practical exam with PSI ($130).
- Pay the $50 original license fee with your PSI 'Congrats' letter to receive your license.
Apply on the official Alabama site
How do you check an esthetician's license in Alabama?
- Search the name or license number on the official Alabama esthetician license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.