According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for cosmetologists is projected to grow by approximately 20 percent from 2008 until 2018. Cosmetologists work within the beauty industry to provide services such as haircuts, hair styling, perms and hair color. Additionally, many cosmetologists are trained in esthetics, which involves manicures, pedicures, makeup application, facials, and waxing. Cosmetology license renewals in the state of Illinois can be made through the Division of Professional Regulation, either online or in the mail.

Expiration Date

According to the Illinois Joint Committee on Administrative Rules, section 1175.425, cosmetology licenses will expire every two years (the odd-numbered years) on September 30. Licenses for cosmetology teachers and schools expire on even-numbered years. Licenses may be renewed by the license holder in the month prior to expiration.

Continuing Education Requirements

Illinois’ Administrative Code, section 1175.425 requires that cosmetologists complete at least 14 hours of continuing education within the two years prior to each renewal in order to renew cosmetology licenses. Continuing education must be completed with a registered sponsor, and renewal applicants must certify completion of the hours on renewal applications. According to Modern Salon Learning, 50 percent of continuing education hours may be completed with online courses. The Division of Professional Regulation may perform a random audit and require applicants to provide evidence of completion such as a certificate of completion.

Exceptions to this rule include applicants who are 62 years old or older, applicants who have been licensed for a minimum of 25 years, and applicants renewing the license for the first time.

Obtaining and Submitting an Application

Applications may be obtained and printed online to mail to the Division of Professional Regulation. Applications may also be completed online and paid for using a credit card. If the applicant must change the name or address on his or her license, the application must be completed and mailed to the Division.

Application Information/Fees

Renewal applications require the cosmetology license numbers and the applicant’s date of birth, Social Security number, or personal identification number. Verify that all information on the renewal application is correct and answer all questions. The cost to renew a cosmetology license in the State of Illinois is $50. The fee is nonrefundable. For applicants paying online using a credit card, there is an additional fee ranging from $1.50 to $10.00 to cover credit card processing fees.

Applicants mailing renewal applications should send them to:

Illinois Division of Professional Regulation 320 W. Washington, #700 Springfield, IL 62786