How to become an esthetician in Indiana
Indiana estheticians are licensed by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA), State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed esthetician in Indiana, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become an esthetician in Indiana?
- At least 17 years old
- Completed 10th grade or equivalent
- Graduate of an esthetics program at a beauty culture school
Indiana esthetician license requirements
| Licensed by | Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA), State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners |
|---|---|
| License name | Esthetician |
| Education or training | 700 hours at an Indiana beauty culture school, or completion of a Department of Labor registered apprenticeship program. Since July 1, 2026 (HEA 1131), esthetician scope includes lash lifts/tinting, brow lamination/tinting and microneedling. |
| Exam | Written licensing exam administered by PSI; register with PSI after the board approves your application, then upload your pass notice. |
| License term | 4 years; licenses expire on a date set by the PLA and every four years after that. |
| Continuing education | No continuing education is required; the board's continuing education rules (820 IAC Article 6) are repealed. |
| Reciprocity | Indiana grants licensure by reciprocity if your current out-of-state license came from a jurisdiction with substantially equal requirements (education hours, or hours plus licensed practice, and at least 70% passing on written and practical exams); applicants from places that issue no license may seek a supervised provisional license. |
How much does it cost?
| Individual beauty culture license application fee (nonrefundable) | $40.00 |
|---|---|
| Renewal fee | $40.00 |
| Reinstatement fee (expired more than 3 years) | $80.00 |
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 Indiana
- Meet the age and education requirements and enroll in an Indiana-approved beauty culture school (esthetics program)
- Complete 700 hours (or a Department of Labor registered apprenticeship)
- Have your school complete the Beauty Culture Education Certification form
- Pass the written exam through PSI
- Apply online through MyLicense One, uploading your education certificate and exam pass notice, and pay the $40 fee
- Renew every four years for $40
Apply on the official Indiana site
How do you check an esthetician's license in Indiana?
- Search the name or license number on the official Indiana 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.