Alabama licenses cosmetologists through the Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (ABOCB). You need an Alabama cosmetology license to legally perform hair, skin, and nail services for compensation anywhere in Alabama.
Alabama requires 1,500 hours of approved training (or 3,000 apprenticeship hours) plus written and practical exams administered through PSI. The total cost including exams and license is approximately $255. Most people complete the full process in 10 to 14 months. Alabama is also a member of the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, which will allow multistate practice once fully operational. Here is exactly how to do it.
Recent Legislation Affecting Alabama Cosmetology Licensing
Cosmetology Licensure Compact (HB 246, signed June 14, 2023): Alabama was the third state to enact the Cosmetology Licensure Compact. The compact became formally active on June 6, 2024, after seven states enacted it. Once fully operational, Alabama 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, Virginia, and Washington. The Compact Commission is still establishing rules, and multistate licenses are not yet being issued.
Esthetics Licensure Compact (SB 163, introduced January 14, 2026): Alabama is considering adoption of a separate Esthetics Licensure Compact. The bill passed the Alabama Senate 33-0 in late January 2026 and awaits consideration in the Alabama House.
Proposed Rule Changes (comment deadline January 5, 2026): ABOCB has proposed allowing students to earn up to 50% of total coursework through distance learning for theory and practical education. A separate proposed rule would eliminate the 375-hour additional training requirement for candidates who fail the third exam attempt, replacing it with a 24-month window to pass all exams.
Alabama Cosmetology License Requirements at a Glance
| Governing Agency | Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (ABOCB) |
| Training Hours Required | 1,500 clock hours at a licensed school OR 3,000 apprenticeship hours |
| Apprenticeship Available? | Yes — 3,000 hours over 3 years |
| Minimum Age | 16 years old |
| Education Prerequisite | Completion of at least 10th grade (or equivalent) |
| Exam Required | Written + Practical exams (PSI) |
| Passing Score | 70% on both exams |
| Exam Fees | Written: $75 | Practical: $130 | Total: $205 |
| License Application Fee | $50 |
| Total Initial Cost | Approximately $255 (excluding tuition) |
| License Renewal | Every 2 years (odd-numbered years, during birth month) | $100 |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Apply Online | ABOCB Forms & Applications |
| Exam Registration | PSI Exams |
| Board Website | aboc.alabama.gov |
Step 1: Meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Before enrolling in an Alabama cosmetology program, confirm you meet these baseline requirements:
- Age: At least 16 years old
- Education: Completed at least the 10th grade or equivalent
Step 2: Complete Your Training Requirements
Alabama offers two pathways to meet the cosmetology training requirement:
Option 1: Cosmetology School (1,500 hours)
Complete 1,500 clock hours at a school licensed by ABOCB. Full-time programs typically take 10 to 14 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)
- Disinfection, sanitation, and safe work practices
- Alabama laws and rules
Option 2: Apprenticeship (3,000 hours)
Complete a 3,000-hour apprenticeship over approximately 3 years. Requirements include:
- Sponsor must hold an active Alabama cosmetology license for at least 5 years
- Sponsor can train only one apprentice at a time
- Apprentice must work only when the sponsor is present
- Sponsor submits hours monthly by the 15th
- Apprentice registration fee: $75
Important: School hours and apprenticeship hours may not be combined. You must complete training entirely through one pathway.
Alabama’s 1,500-hour requirement is the national average for cosmetology. For a comparison of requirements across states, see our cosmetology license requirements by state guide.
Step 3: Pass the Written and Practical Exams
After completing your training, you must pass both a written exam and a practical exam. Alabama uses PSI-administered exams (not NIC exams). You must pass the written examination before taking the practical exam.
How to register:
- Complete your training program
- Register through the PSI Exams portal, by email (examschedule@psionline.com), or phone (1-800-211-2754)
- Pay the exam fees ($75 written + $130 practical)
- Schedule your exams
Written Exam: Computer-based, multiple-choice format. You have 90 minutes to complete the exam. A passing score of 70% is required.
Practical Exam: Hands-on demonstration of cosmetology skills. The exam takes approximately 2 hours. A passing score of 70% is required. You must bring your own mannequin and supplies.
Retake Policy: You have 3 attempts each for the written and practical exams within 2 years of completing your program. –>
Pending Exam Permit: After completing your training program, you receive a 6-month non-renewable Pending Exam Permit that allows you to work while completing your exams.
Step 4: Receive Your Alabama Cosmetology License
After passing both exams, pay the $50 original license fee to ABOCB. Your license authorizes you to perform all cosmetology services in the state of Alabama, including hair, skin, and nail services.
Alabama Cosmetology License Fees Summary
| Fee Type | Amount | Paid To |
|---|---|---|
| Written Exam | $75 | PSI |
| Practical Exam | $130 | PSI |
| Original License | $50 | ABOCB |
| Total Initial Cost | $255 | |
| Biennial Renewal | $100 | ABOCB |
| Late Renewal Fee | $54 | ABOCB |
| Reciprocity (Out of State) | $100 | ABOCB |
| Reciprocity (Out of Country) | $175 | ABOCB |
| Apprentice Registration | $75 | ABOCB |
License Renewal Requirements
Alabama cosmetology licenses expire biennially in odd-numbered years during the licensee’s birth month. Renewal notices are sent before expiration.
To renew:
- Renew online through the ABOCB website
- Pay the $100 renewal fee
- No continuing education is required
Late Renewal: A $54 late fee is assessed for renewals postmarked after the last day of your birth month.
Expired Over 4 Years: If your license has been expired for more than 4 years, you must pass the practical exam again and pay all accumulated back fees.
Transferring Your License to Alabama (Reciprocity)
Alabama offers reciprocity for cosmetologists licensed in other states. To apply:
- Request certification of licensure from your current state, sent directly to ABOCB
- Complete the Application for Reciprocity to Alabama
- Pay the $100 reciprocity fee (non-refundable)
- The Board determines whether you must take the practical exam only, or both written and practical exams
Out-of-Country Applicants: International applicants pay a $175 fee, must use a NACES/AICE foreign credential evaluator, and must pass both written and practical exams.
For a comparison of cosmetology licensing requirements and reciprocity rules across all states, see our complete cosmetology license guide.
Military Members, Veterans, and Military Spouses
Alabama provides licensing accommodations for military-connected applicants through the Military Family Jobs Opportunity Act (Code of Alabama, Section 31-1-6):
Military Spouse Fee Waiver: Spouses of active-duty military personnel transferring from out of state to Alabama are not required to pay the initial license fee. A Military Spouse Fee Waiver Request Form must be submitted with the reciprocity application.
Expedited Reciprocal Licensure: Military spouses may qualify for expedited processing of their reciprocity applications.
SCRA License Portability (2023): The amended Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) allows military spouses with professional licenses to practice in their new state of residence under certain conditions when they relocate due to military orders.
What Can You Do with an Alabama Cosmetology License?
An Alabama cosmetology license authorizes the broadest scope of practice among the state’s beauty licenses. It includes:
- Hair services: cleansing, singeing, cutting, arranging, dressing, curling, braiding, waxing, bleaching, weaving, and coloring hair
- Skin services: use of creams, lotions, and cosmetic preparations with or without massage on the scalp, face, arms, legs, feet, or hands
- Esthetics practices (facials, body waxing, skin care)
- Nail technology (manicures, pedicures, artificial nails)
- Desairology (hair care for deceased persons)
If you are deciding between a cosmetology license and a more specialized license, see our barber vs cosmetology license comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a cosmetology license in Alabama?
Most people complete the process in 10 to 14 months. A full-time 1,500-hour school program typically takes 10 to 12 months. After completing training, exam scheduling and license processing add another 2 to 6 weeks. The apprenticeship pathway takes approximately 3 years.
How much does it cost to get a cosmetology license in Alabama?
The total licensing cost (excluding school tuition) is approximately $255: $205 in exam fees paid to PSI ($75 written + $130 practical) and $50 for the original license paid to ABOCB. If using the apprenticeship pathway, add a $75 registration fee.
Does Alabama require continuing education for cosmetologists?
No. Alabama does not require continuing education for cosmetology license renewal. You simply pay the $100 renewal fee every two years during your birth month in odd-numbered years.
Can I transfer my out-of-state cosmetology license to Alabama?
Yes, through reciprocity ($100 fee). Your current state must send a certification of licensure directly to ABOCB. The Board will determine whether you need to take additional exams based on your qualifications and experience.
Does Alabama offer an apprenticeship program for cosmetology?
Yes. Alabama offers a 3,000-hour apprenticeship pathway that takes approximately 3 years. Your sponsor must hold an active Alabama cosmetology license for at least 5 years and can train only one apprentice at a time. School hours and apprenticeship hours cannot be combined.
What is the Cosmetology Compact and does Alabama participate?
Yes. Alabama was the third state to enact the Cosmetology Licensure Compact in June 2023. The compact became active on June 6, 2024. Once the Compact Commission finishes establishing rules, Alabama cosmetologists will be able to obtain multistate licenses to practice in all member states. Current member states include Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington.
Can I work while waiting for my Alabama cosmetology license?
Yes. After completing your training program, you receive a 6-month non-renewable Pending Exam Permit that allows you to work while completing your exams.
What is the passing score for the Alabama cosmetology exam?
You must score at least 70% on both the written exam and the practical exam. The written exam is computer-based with a 90-minute time limit. The practical exam takes approximately 2 hours.
Official Resources
- Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (official website)
- License Application Forms
- Official Fee Schedule
- PSI Exam Registration
- Reciprocity / License Transfer Information
- Military Families Information
- Board Contact: (334) 242-1918 | Toll-free: 1-800-815-7453 | cosmetology@aboc.alabama.gov
- Board Address: RSA Union Building, 100 North Union Street, Suite 324, Montgomery, AL 36104