Wisconsin Cosmetology License: Requirements, Cost & How to Apply (2026)

High school graduation, HSED or GED, participation in a board-approved program, or age at least 18.

High school graduation, HSED or GED, participation in a board-approved program, or age at least 18.

Graduated from high school, have a High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) or General Educational Development Program (GED) as determined by the Department of Public Instruction, currently participating in a program approved by the Examining Board, or is at least 18 years old.

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

At least 1,550 training hours over at least 10 months in a qualifying cosmetology school, or a statutory apprenticeship.

At least 1,550 training hours over at least 10 months in a qualifying cosmetology school, or a statutory apprenticeship.

A course of instruction in cosmetology of at least 1550 training hours in not less than 10 months in a school of cosmetology licensed or exempted under Wisconsin Statute, or is accredited by an accrediting agency approved by the Board, An apprenticeship under Wisconsin Statute

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

Pass the current state board written and practical examinations, scheduled with DL Roope Administrations.

Pass the current state board written and practical examinations, scheduled with DL Roope Administrations.

You must apply for and pass the current state board examinations (both written and practical). You must schedule an appointment for the examinations (both written and practical) with the Department's contracted vendor, DL Roope Administration Inc.

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

$11

11

82 Cosmetologist Individual $11 $11 03/31/Odd

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

The listed initial credential and renewal fees are $11 each.

The listed initial credential and renewal fees are $11 each.

82 Cosmetologist Individual $11 $11 03/31/Odd

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

Additional fees may apply; LicensE calculates the total at the end of the application.

Additional fees may apply; LicensE calculates the total at the end of the application.

The total fee amount will be automatically calculated at the end of the LicensE application. Please note, additional fees may apply.

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

Endorsement also requires a one-hour Cosmetology Reciprocity Laws course, with the completion certificate sent directly by the school.

Endorsement also requires a one-hour Cosmetology Reciprocity Laws course, with the completion certificate sent directly by the school.

You must complete a one-hour course on Cosmetology Reciprocity Laws. The Certificate of Completion must be submitted directly from the school.

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

Wisconsin Cosmetology Examining Board

Wisconsin Cosmetology Examining Board

Cosmetology Examining Board

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

Open the official agency page

https://dsps.wi.gov/a-z-professions-list/cosmetologist/licensure-by-examination/

Cosmetologist - Licensure by Examination

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

Open the official agency page

https://dsps.wi.gov/a-z-professions-list/cosmetologist/licensure-by-examination/

How to Apply on LicensE Below are some general instructions for applying for a credential on LicensE. Create or log into your LicensE account. Please visit LicensE account Information page for detailed guidance on selecting your account type. Select " Apply for a License."

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

03/31/Odd

03/31/Odd Applies to: Cosmetologist license renewal

82 Cosmetologist Individual $11 $11 03/31/Odd

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

Endorsement applicants must have an active out-of-state license in good standing without discipline and satisfy the listed education and training requirements.

Endorsement applicants must have an active out-of-state license in good standing without discipline and satisfy the listed education and training requirements.

Before applying for licensure, you must meet two Pre- Credential Education Requirements. Graduated from high school, have a High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) or General Educational Development Program (GED) as determined by the Department of Public Instruction, currently participating in a program approved by the Examining Board, or is at least 18 years old. Completed one of the following: A course of instruction in cosmetology of at least 1550 training hours in not less than 10 months in a school of cosmetology licensed or exempted under Wisconsin Statute, or is accredited by an accrediting agency approved by the Board, An apprenticeship under Wisconsin Statute You must have an active license in another state. The active license needs to be in Good Standing and not list discipline.

Last verified Oct 25, 2026