How to become an esthetician in North Carolina
North Carolina estheticians are licensed by the North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed esthetician in North Carolina, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become an esthetician in North Carolina?
- Graduate of an approved cosmetic art school esthetician curriculum
North Carolina esthetician license requirements
| Licensed by | North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners |
|---|---|
| License name | Esthetician |
| Education or training | 600 hours in an approved cosmetic art school esthetician curriculum (G.S. 88B-9); no apprenticeship route. |
| Exam | State Board examination administered through Prov (provexam.com); passing score 75%. |
| License term | 1 year; esthetician licenses renew annually on or before October 1 (G.S. 88B-21) |
| Continuing education | 8 hours of continuing education per year of licensure, at least half in the licensed field; the board offers free CE, and exemptions exist for long-tenured or older licensees. |
| Reciprocity | Out-of-state licensees in good standing from states offering reciprocity can transfer; some states must send a certification first (fee $64 cosmetologist, $35 esthetician). |
How much does it cost?
| Initial in-state esthetician license | $20 |
|---|---|
| Out-of-state applicant esthetician license | $35 |
| Temporary permit | $5 |
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 North Carolina
- Complete 600 hours at an approved cosmetic art school
- School submits graduation paperwork
- Apply for the exam through Prov within 3 months of graduation
- Pass the State Board exam (75%)
- Apply online for your license and pay the $20 fee
- Complete 8 CE hours and renew each year by October 1
Apply on the official North Carolina site
How do you check an esthetician's license in North Carolina?
- Search the name or license number on the official North Carolina 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.