Maryland licenses cosmetologists through the Board of Cosmetologists, which operates under the Department of Labor’s Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. You need a Maryland cosmetology license to legally perform hair, skin, and nail services for compensation anywhere in Maryland.
Maryland requires 1,500 hours of approved training (or 24 months as a registered apprentice) plus written and practical exams administered through PSI Services. The total cost including exams and license is approximately $105. Most people complete the full process in 12 to 18 months. Here is exactly how to do it.
Recent Legislation Affecting Maryland Cosmetology Licensing
Maryland enacted several important changes effective in 2025 and 2026:
HB 1600: Continuing Education Requirement (Effective January 1, 2026): For the first time, Maryland now requires cosmetologists to complete 6 hours of approved continuing education as a condition of license renewal. Two hours must cover health, safety, welfare, sanitation, or Board laws and regulations. The remaining 4 hours are electives within the scope of practice. Approved providers include MHEC-approved private career schools, accredited colleges, and cosmetology textbook publishers.
HB 1547: Domestic Violence Awareness Training (Effective January 1, 2026): All applicants for initial licensure and license renewal must complete a one-hour domestic violence awareness training. This is a one-time requirement that applies to both the Board of Cosmetologists and the Board of Barbers.
HB 1223: Limited Eyelash Extension License (2025): Maryland authorized the Board of Cosmetologists to establish a limited license for eyelash extension technicians. As of January 1, 2026, individuals must hold a cosmetologist license, an esthetician license, or the new limited eyelash extension license to provide eyelash services.
Cosmetology Licensure Compact (Enacted April 2024): Maryland became the fifth state to adopt the Cosmetology Licensure Compact. Once fully implemented, Maryland cosmetologists with multistate licenses will be able to practice in all compact member states without additional licensure. Current member states include Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Maryland Cosmetology License Requirements at a Glance
| Governing Agency | Board of Cosmetologists, Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing, Maryland Department of Labor |
| Statutory Authority | Business Occupations and Professions Article, Title 5; COMAR Title 9, Subtitle 22 |
| Training Hours Required | 1,500 hours at an MSDE- or MHEC-approved cosmetology school OR 24 months as a registered apprentice |
| Apprenticeship Available? | Yes — 24 months in a licensed salon under a Senior Cosmetologist (minimum 20 hours per week) |
| Minimum Age | 17 years old (16 for apprenticeship) |
| Education Prerequisite | 9th grade completion or GED |
| Exam Required | Written (theory) + Practical exams (PSI Services) |
| Exam Fees | Both exams: $77 | Individual exam: $47 each |
| License Application Fee | $28 |
| Total Initial Cost | Approximately $105 (excluding tuition) |
| License Renewal | Every 2 years | $28 |
| Continuing Education | 6 hours per renewal cycle (effective January 1, 2026) |
| Timeline | 12–18 months (training) + 2–4 weeks (exam/processing) |
| Apply Online | Maryland Electronic Licensing System |
| Exam Registration | PSI Services |
| Board Website | labor.maryland.gov/license/cos |
Step 1: Meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Before enrolling in a Maryland cosmetology program, confirm you meet these baseline requirements:
- Age: At least 17 years old (16 for apprenticeship)
- Education: Completed 9th grade or GED equivalent
- Domestic Violence Training: Complete a one-hour domestic violence awareness training (one-time requirement, effective January 1, 2026)
Maryland does not automatically disqualify applicants based on criminal history. The Board evaluates applications on a case-by-case basis.
Step 2: Complete Your Training Requirements
Maryland offers two pathways to meet the Maryland cosmetology license training requirement:
Option 1: Cosmetology School (1,500 Hours)
Complete 1,500 hours of instruction at a cosmetology school approved by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) or the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) in consultation with the Board. Full-time programs typically take 12 to 15 months. The curriculum covers:
- Hair care services (cutting, coloring, styling, chemical treatments)
- Skin care services (facials, makeup, waxing)
- Nail care services (manicures, pedicures, artificial nails)
- Sanitation and infection control
- Maryland laws and regulations
- Salon management and professional ethics
Option 2: Apprenticeship (24 Months)
Complete a 24-month apprenticeship in a licensed beauty salon under the supervision of a Senior Cosmetologist. Apprentices must train at least 20 hours per week and submit monthly training reports to the Board. The apprentice license fee is $11, and one 2-year renewal is permitted if renewed on time. To start, you and your sponsoring Senior Cosmetologist must submit an application and sponsorship form to the Board.
Maryland’s 1,500-hour requirement is at the national average for cosmetology. See how all states compare in our cosmetology license requirements by state guide.
Step 3: Apply for and Pass the Licensing Exams
Maryland uses examinations administered by PSI Services. You must pass both a written (theory) and practical exam.
How to register:
- Complete your training program or apprenticeship
- Create an account at the PSI test-taker webpage
- Submit your application online (as of March 31, 2025, PSI no longer accepts mail, fax, or email applications)
- Pay the exam fees ($77 for both exams, or $47 each if taken separately)
- Receive your eligibility email and schedule your exams
Exam details:
- Written (Theory) Exam: Computer-based, covering cosmetology theory, sanitation, infection control, anatomy, and Maryland laws and rules
- Practical Exam: Hands-on demonstration of cosmetology skills including hair cutting, styling, chemical services, and nail and skin care
- Passing Score: 70% on each exam
- Retake Policy: Unlimited retakes allowed with no expiration on eligibility. However, both exam scores must be passed within two years of each other to be valid
PSI registrars can be reached at (855) 898-0714 for scheduling and payment questions.
Step 4: Receive Your Maryland Cosmetology License
Once you pass both exams, apply for your cosmetology license through the Maryland Electronic Licensing System. The license application fee is $28. Processing typically takes 1 to 30 days.
As of March 1, 2024, the Board no longer mails paper licenses. You will receive a PDF license via email and must print it yourself. You must affix a current photo to your license per COMAR 09.22.01.01 B(2). You must be affiliated with a licensed salon to perform services.
Maryland Cosmetology License Fees Summary
| Fee Type | Amount | Paid To |
|---|---|---|
| Written (Theory) Exam | $47 | PSI Services |
| Practical Exam | $47 | PSI Services |
| Both Exams (combined) | $77 | PSI Services |
| License Application | $28 | Board of Cosmetologists |
| Total Initial Cost | $105 | |
| Biennial Renewal | $28 | Board of Cosmetologists |
| Late Renewal | $56 | Board of Cosmetologists |
| Apprentice License | $11 | Board of Cosmetologists |
| Endorsement (Out-of-State) | $28 | Board of Cosmetologists |
All fees are nonrefundable.
License Renewal Requirements
Maryland cosmetology licenses must be renewed every two years. The Board mails renewal information approximately 60 days before expiration. The renewal fee is $28.
Continuing Education (effective January 1, 2026):
- Total hours: 6 hours per renewal cycle
- Required topics (2 hours): Health, safety, welfare, sanitation, and/or Board laws and regulations
- Elective topics (4 hours): Any subject within your scope of practice, including business, cosmetology techniques, product knowledge, or esthetics
- Approved providers: MHEC-approved private career schools, accredited colleges/universities, and cosmetology textbook publishers
Late renewal: A $56 late fee is automatically assessed if your license has expired. If you fail to renew, you cannot legally practice and may face disciplinary action.
Reinstatement: Contact the Board at 410-230-6190 or barbers.cos@maryland.gov for reinstatement procedures on lapsed licenses.
Transferring Your License to Maryland (Endorsement)
Maryland offers licensure by endorsement for cosmetologists licensed in other states. Eligible applicants may receive a waiver of the theory and practical examinations, subject to Board approval. You must:
- Hold a current, active license in good standing from another U.S. state
- Have comparable licensing requirements to Maryland’s standards
- Have your original state send official license verification directly to the Board at barbers.cos@maryland.gov (documents submitted by applicants are not accepted)
Application process:
- Contact your original licensing state and request they send certification directly to the Maryland Board, including your full name, address, license type(s), dates, exam language, and program hours
- Email the Board at barbers.cos@maryland.gov with your name, address, license number, and transferring state
- Wait for Board confirmation before submitting your application (all fees are nonrefundable)
- Submit your application through the Electronic Licensing System
If your original license has expired: You must obtain certification from both your original state and your current licensing state.
Foreign-trained applicants: You must have your education evaluated and submit official transcripts with certified English translations and diploma/degree certificates to the Board.
Cosmetology Compact: Maryland is a member of the Cosmetology Licensure Compact. Once fully implemented, cosmetologists with multistate licenses will be able to practice across all compact member states without additional licensure. For more information on the compact’s current member states, see our Colorado cosmetology license page.
Military Members, Veterans, and Military Spouses
Maryland provides licensing accommodations for military-connected applicants under state law:
Expedited Processing: The Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing must issue licenses to military veterans and families within 60 days of receiving completed applications with all supporting documentation.
Temporary Work Permits: Military spouses who hold a license from another state may qualify for a temporary work permit while completing Maryland licensing requirements. Contact the Board at 410-230-6190 or barbers.cos@maryland.gov for details.
Eligibility includes:
- Veterans with honorable or non-dishonorable discharge
- Active-duty service members assigned to Maryland duty stations
- Spouses of active service members or veterans assigned to Maryland
- Surviving spouses of Armed Forces members
Required documentation: Veterans must provide DD Form 214; active service members must provide military orders; spouses must provide marriage certificate plus military orders or discharge documentation. All applicants must provide proof of Maryland residence.
SCRA License Portability (2023): Under the amended Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, military spouses who relocate to Maryland due to military orders may be able to use their existing out-of-state license while completing Maryland licensing requirements.
What Can You Do with a Maryland Cosmetology License?
A Maryland cosmetology license authorizes you to perform hair care services (cutting, coloring, styling, perming, relaxing, extensions), skin care services (facials, makeup, waxing), and nail care services (manicures, pedicures, artificial nails).
Important limitations:
- Microblading and cosmetic tattooing: The Board does not offer a license for microblading or permanent makeup. Cosmetic tattooing is prohibited in salons in Maryland
- Eyelash extensions: As of January 1, 2026, you must hold a cosmetologist, esthetician, or limited eyelash extension license to provide eyelash services
- Salon affiliation required: You must be affiliated with a licensed salon to perform services
Senior Cosmetologist: After two years of experience as a licensed cosmetologist, you may apply for a Senior Cosmetologist license by passing both the Senior Cosmetologist exam and the standard cosmetologist exam. Senior Cosmetologists can supervise apprentices. The license fee is $28.
If you are deciding between a cosmetology license and a more specialized license, see our barber vs cosmetology license comparison or learn whether you can be an esthetician with a cosmetology license.
Related License Options in Maryland
| License Type | Hours Required | Scope of Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | 1,500 hours (or 24-month apprenticeship) | Hair, skin, and nail services |
| Limited Hair Stylist | Varies | Hair services only |
| Limited Esthetician | 600 hours (or 12-month apprenticeship) | Skin care services only |
| Limited Nail Technician | 250 hours (or 8-month apprenticeship) | Nail services only |
| Blow Dry Stylist | Varies | Blow drying and styling only |
| Barber (separate board) | 1,200 hours (or 2,250-hour apprenticeship) | Hair cutting, shaving, grooming |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a cosmetology license in Maryland?
Most people complete the process in 12 to 18 months. Full-time cosmetology programs (1,500 hours) typically take 12 to 15 months. The 24-month apprenticeship pathway takes the full two years. After completing training, exam scheduling and license processing add another 2 to 4 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a cosmetology license in Maryland?
The total licensing cost (excluding school tuition) is approximately $105: $77 in exam fees paid to PSI Services and $28 license application fee paid to the Board. If you take each exam separately, the total exam cost is $94 ($47 each).
Does Maryland require continuing education for cosmetologists?
Yes, effective January 1, 2026. Maryland now requires 6 hours of approved continuing education per renewal cycle. Two hours must cover health, safety, welfare, sanitation, or Board laws and regulations. The remaining 4 hours are electives within your scope of practice.
Can I transfer my out-of-state cosmetology license to Maryland?
Yes, through endorsement. You must hold a current, active license in good standing with comparable requirements to Maryland’s 1,500-hour standard. Your original state must send official license verification directly to the Board. Eligible applicants may receive a waiver of exams, subject to Board approval.
Does Maryland offer an apprenticeship program for cosmetology?
Yes. Maryland offers a 24-month apprenticeship pathway in a licensed salon under a Senior Cosmetologist. Apprentices must train at least 20 hours per week and submit monthly reports to the Board. The apprentice license fee is $11.
What is the Cosmetology Compact and does Maryland participate?
The Cosmetology Licensure Compact allows licensed cosmetologists to practice across member states with one multistate license. Maryland became the fifth state to enact the compact in April 2024. Current member states include Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia. Multistate licenses are expected to be available once full implementation is complete.
Can I do microblading with a Maryland cosmetology license?
No. The Board does not issue a license for microblading or permanent makeup. Cosmetic tattooing is prohibited in salons in Maryland.
What is a Senior Cosmetologist license in Maryland?
A Senior Cosmetologist license is an advanced tier that requires two years of experience as a licensed cosmetologist and passing both the Senior Cosmetologist exam and the standard cosmetologist exam. Senior Cosmetologists can supervise apprentices. The license fee is $28.
Official Resources
- Maryland Board of Cosmetologists (official website)
- Online License Application (Electronic Licensing System)
- Forms and Fee Schedule
- Endorsement (Reciprocity) Information
- Continuing Education Information
- PSI Services (exam registration) | Phone: (855) 898-0714
- Board Contact: Maryland Board of Cosmetologists | 100 S. Charles Street, Tower I, Baltimore, MD 21201 | Phone: (410) 230-6190 | Email: barbers.cos@maryland.gov