Idaho licenses estheticians through the Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board under DOPL. You need an Idaho esthetician license to perform skin care, facials, makeup, hair removal, and related services for compensation.
Idaho requires 600 training hours plus NIC exams through Prov, Inc. The board updated its FDA medical device guidance in February 2026. No CE is required. Total initial cost is approximately $258. Here is exactly how to get your Idaho esthetician license.
Idaho Esthetician License Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Agency | Idaho DOPL, Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board |
| Statutory Authority | Idaho Code Title 54, Chapter 58 |
| Minimum Age | 16½ years old |
| Education Prerequisite | Completed 10th grade or equivalent |
| Training Hours Required | 600 hours at a board-approved school (or 1,200-hour apprenticeship) |
| Exam Required | NIC Esthetics Written + Practical + Idaho Jurisprudence (Prov, Inc.) |
| Passing Score | 75% |
| Exam Fees | $208 ($88 written + $120 practical) |
| License Application Fee | $50 ($25 application + $25 license) |
| Total Initial Cost | ~$258 |
| Renewal Cycle | Every 2 years (biennial) |
| Renewal Fee | $25/year |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Apply Online | DOPL Online Services |
| Board Website | dopl.idaho.gov/bcb |
Education & Training Requirements
Complete 600 hours at a board-approved school. The curriculum covers skin histology, facial massage, electricity applications, hygiene, bacteriology, and chemistry related to disinfection. Up to 50% may be distance education. Students cannot perform chemical services until completing 5% of required instruction.
Full-time students typically complete the program in 4 to 6 months.
Apprenticeship alternative: A 1,200-hour apprenticeship under a licensed cosmetology instructor (with at least one licensed esthetician on-site) is available.
Scope of practice: Estheticians may perform noninvasive skin care, makeup application, temporary hair removal, and eyebrow/eyelash tinting. Per February 2026 board guidance, Class I FDA medical devices may be used, and Class II FDA devices require direction and supervision of a licensed health care practitioner.
At 600 hours, Idaho’s requirement matches the national average. See our esthetician license guide and esthetician hours by state comparison.
Exam Requirements
NIC exams through Prov, Inc.: written (85 items, 90 minutes) and practical, plus Idaho Jurisprudence exam. Passing score is 75%. Starting July 1, 2026, students may sit for exams at 80% completion (HB 514).
Application Process & Fees
- Complete 600 hours of esthetics training
- Register for exams through Prov ($208 total) and pass all three
- Apply through DOPL Online Services and pay $50 ($25 application + $25 license)
Total initial cost: approximately $258.
License Renewal & Continuing Education
Biennial renewal at $25/year. No continuing education required. Reinstatement penalty is $35 for lapsed licenses.
Reciprocity & License Transfer
Endorsement available ($35 fee) without examination. You must hold a current license and either meet Idaho’s 600-hour standard or have 1 year of practice in the last 3 years. Experience credit: 60 hours as a student or 120 hours as an apprentice per 6 months of practice. Idaho’s universal licensure law (67-9409) provides additional pathways.
Military Provisions
Expedited processing within 15 business days, no exam or fee for military endorsement, and license protection during active service plus 6 months post-discharge.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours do I need to become an esthetician in Idaho?
600 hours at a board-approved school. Full-time students typically complete training in 4 to 6 months.
How much does it cost to get an esthetician license in Idaho?
Approximately $258: $208 in exam fees and $50 in board fees.
Does Idaho require continuing education for estheticians?
No. Idaho does not require any continuing education for esthetician license renewal.
Can Idaho estheticians use medical devices?
Class I FDA devices may be used independently. Class II FDA devices require supervision by a licensed health care practitioner per the board’s February 2026 guidance.
Can I transfer my esthetician license to Idaho?
Yes. Endorsement ($35) is available without examination for licensees with a current license and equivalent training or 1 year of practice.
Official Resources
- Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board (official website)
- Online License Application Portal (eDOPL)
- Prov, Inc. (exam registration)
- Statutes, Rules, and Practice Guidance
- Board Contact: (208) 334-3233 | bcb@dopl.idaho.gov
- Board Address: 11341 W. Chinden Blvd., Building 4, Boise, ID 83714