How to Get a Cosmetology License in South Carolina

New hires increase in cosmetology have significantly increased in the past decade. A salon professional must complete a multi-faceted course of study and sit for a state licensing exam. If you have talent and a strong desire to improve people's appearance, here's what you must do to get a cosmetology license in South Carolina.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Complete 1500 hours of a licensed cosmetology program approved by the NACCAS. A full cosmetology program includes the study of hair styling, nail care, skin care and make-up application.

2. Study 450 hours of aesthetics. The area of aesthetics includes make-up application, massage, waxing and reflexology.

3. Fulfill the 300 hours required in nail technology. Learn nail art and design, nail wraps, gels and tips.

4. Contact the South Carolina Board of Cosmetology to request an application and a schedule of test dates and locations (see Resources below).

5. Apply for a reciprocal license when you are a licensed cosmetologist in another state with the same or greater requirements. Additional training or other testing may be required. You may have to sit for the National Exam.

6. Contact the South Carolina Board of Cosmetology for details, updates and changes of all licensing requirements (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the cosmetology school you select is accredited by both the state of South Carolina and by the NACCAS.

Who Can Help:

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Resources

• Contact information for SC Board of Cosmetology
• Applications and forms
• Find schools