How to Become a Cosmetologist in Indiana

Cosmetologists work to create beautiful hair, skin and nails.

Cosmetologists in Indiana are required to be licensed to practice cosmetology. Several pieces of information, as well as the completion of an approved training program, are required to apply for licensure as a cosmetologist. Though the process is lengthy, if followed step by step, you can succeed in becoming a cosmetologist.

Instructions

1. Complete at least the 10th grade of high school, as required by the Indiana Board of Cosmetology for licensure. You must be at least 18 years old, the minimum age to take the licensure exam and apply for a cosmetology license in the state of Indiana.

2. Complete a minimum of 1,500 hours of cosmetology training at a vocational or trade school. Apprenticeships do not count as cosmetology training for licensing purposes. A list of cosmetology schools in Indiana can be found at the Beauty Schools Directory (see Resources).

3. Register to take the licensing exam administered by Pearson VUE. This exam will cover sterilization of instruments, hair cutting techniques, hair styling and coloring techniques, healthy skin care and proper nail care. Testers will have up to four hours to complete the exam.

4. Apply with the State Board of Cosmetology for a cosmetology license upon passing the licensing exam. The training school that you attended will have provided you with a certificate of completion and application paperwork for your license. Mail this packet in the envelope provided to you with the application to the State Board of Cosmetology.

5. Apply directly with the State Board of Cosmetology for a cosmetology license if you are a licensed cosmetologist in another state. Indiana will grant you a cosmetology license if you completed a training course at least 1,500 hours in length or have adequate experience (see Resources)The State Board of Cosmetology will consider each year of experience in lieu of 100 hours of training time.

References

• "The American Beauty Industry Encyclopedia"; Julie Willett; 2010
• Indiana State Board of Cosmetology Examiners

Resources

• Beauty Schools Directory: Indiana
• Indiana Board of Cosmetology: Reciprocity Application