How to Become a Licensed Cosmetologist
A license in cosmetology can open up many exciting career choices in the beauty industry. As a cosmetologist you are licensed to perform a number of services, such as coloring, cutting and styling hair; manicures and pedicures; skin care treatments and cosmetics. If you've decided to pursue this field, chances are that you already have a penchant towards doing any number of these things. While that is the basis for a promising career, more than mere talent will be needed to become a cosmetologist.
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Instructions
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Look up your State Board of Cosmetology. Visit their website online or call them for information on how many hours of training are required. You will also want to verify that you meet your state's educational requirements to become a cosmetologist. Some states require a high school diploma or a GED while others will allow you to start a program provided that you are pursuing either of those. In addition, ensure that you meet the age qualifications as some states require that you are at least 18 years old.
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Locate a cosmetology school. Your state board website will likely have a list of state licensed schools and training programs on their website. Also consider asking a licensed cosmetologist which school she attended. Contact several programs if there are more than one to choose from and set up an appointment to speak with a counselor to discuss the curriculum, tuition and to set up a tour the school. If you have the opportunity, sit in on a class and observe the clinic area where students are working on paying customers so that you can get a feel for the school's atmosphere.
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Sign up and complete your course of study. The school will help you to determine if you are eligible for any type of financial aid and guide you through their sign-up process. Once your finances have been settled you can begin your course of study. Most cosmetology programs require a certain amount of hands-on and in-class training. The hands-on portion of your training allows you to perform salon services such as styling, cutting and perming of hair; nail care, and facials on real customers in a clinic or salon setting. Most schools take nine months to two years to complete. After graduation, sign up to take your state's cosmetology board licensing exam. Your school will provide you with the proper information to apply for your test. Take advantage of any trial exams or testing preparation your school offers.
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Take the licensing exam. There are two parts to the cosmetology licensing exams: a written section and a hands-on practical exam that tests your ability to perform certain services. In some states, you may be required to bring a model with you for the practical portion of the exam while in others a mannequin is used. Upon successful completion of our exam, you will receive your license, generally in the mail, within several weeks.
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Tips & Warnings
Check with your State Board of Cosmetology for information on license renewal requirements. When moving to another state, further education may be required in order to transfer your license. Check with your new state's Cosmetology board for reciprocity requirements.
Cosmetologists often work long hours, weekends and evenings, particularly if self-employed.
References
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