How to become an esthetician in New Hampshire
New Hampshire estheticians are licensed by the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC), Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed esthetician in New Hampshire, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Part of the state's website could not be reached when we checked, so some details come from New Hampshire law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become an esthetician in New Hampshire?
- Good professional character
- Completed high school or its equivalent
New Hampshire esthetician license requirements
| Licensed by | New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC), Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics |
|---|---|
| License name | Esthetician (esthetics license) |
| Education or training | 600 hours in an OPLC-approved school; a board-approved apprenticeship may substitute (1,200 hours in a shop apprenticeship program under Bar 301.03). |
| Exam | Written and practical exams based on National-Interstate Council (NIC) national tests, given by the OPLC's contracted testing agency. |
| License term | 2 years from date of issuance (RSA 310:8) |
| Continuing education | No continuing education is required; the board's continuing education rule (Bar 403.01) is repealed. |
| Reciprocity | Applicants licensed in another state apply on the OPLC out-of-state application and have their licensing state send a certificate of licensure (Bar 304). |
How much does it cost?
| Personal license application processing and licensing (initial, renewal or reinstatement, 2 years) | $55 |
|---|---|
| Written exam | $88 |
| Practical exam | $99 |
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 New Hampshire
- Complete 600 school hours or a 1,200-hour shop apprenticeship
- Apply to the OPLC with proof of training and education
- Pay the exam fees
- Pass the written and practical exams
- Pay the $55 license fee and receive your license
- Renew every 2 years
How do you check an esthetician's license in New Hampshire?
- Search the name or license number on the official New Hampshire 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.