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Transferring a Cosmetology License to Another State

You worked so hard to get your Cosmetology license and you want to be able to use it no matter where you live. That’s the beauty (no pun intended) of a cosmetology license. You can really build a business no matter where the wind takes you, but before you hit the road, there are 9 questions you need to ask before transferring your license.

First and foremost, you need to get in contact with the State Board of Cosmetology in the state where you are planning to live. They will be able to give you the information that you need, as every state’s regulations are different. So, where do you even begin? There are some important questions that you need to ask.

1. The hourly requirements are different in the new state, what will be required of me?

Every state has a different requirement of hours for cosmetology licensure. For example, North Carolina requires 1500 hours while New York only requires 1000. It is important to know the requirements and what, if any, hours will transfer.

2. Can I get reciprocity in this state?

What does reciprocity mean?  It means that you can transfer your license from your old state to your new state without having to do any extras, like continuing education, retaking any exams, or having a certain amount of experience.  In some cases of reciprocity, all you have to have is a current license in order to transfer to a new state.

3. Do I have to retake the state board test?

This answer is very state-specific. The State Board of Cosmetology in your new state will have the answer.

4. Do I need continuing education?

Some states require that you do continuing education before transferring a license. If you are required to take classes, ask about what classes are available. Most states have a list of approved continuing education classes that you can apply for. You might find a really interesting class or a topic in an area that you could use some improvement.

5. Does my license have to be current?

If you do not have a current license, check with your current state about renewal before trying to transfer.

6. Do I have to have experience?

You may have to have work experience or have held a license for a certain number of years to transfer to a new state.

7. Is there a fee to transfer my license?

Many states do require a fee to transfer the license, so definitely check into any fees. Include licensing fees into your moving budget.

8. How long will it take to transfer?

Ask your new state for a time frame on the process. Ask what you can do you hurry everything along if you are in a rush to get the new license or you have a deadline to meet at your new workplace.

9. Where do I send my information?

Always ask for the name and number/extension of the person you are speaking with at your new State Board office. Make sure you find out where your information needs to be sent and to whom you should address any specific information.  You can always check to see if certain items can be faxed or emailed to speed things along.

*Keep in mind that there may be fees associated with sending your license certification from your current state. You should call your current State Board of Cosmetology to ask about this and the time frame for sending it to your new state.

It may seem like a daunting task to transfer a license, but really, you can be up and running in no time. Asking these important questions will get you headed in the right direction and will help you plan for what you need to continue “LOVING” what you do in your new city.

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