West Virginia licenses estheticians (called “aestheticians” in state statute) through the West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists (WVBBC). You need a West Virginia esthetician license to perform facials, skin treatments, waxing, makeup application, and related services for compensation.
West Virginia requires 600 training hours plus NIC written and practical exams administered by DL Roope. Total initial cost is approximately $169. No continuing education is required since 2022. West Virginia’s esthetician scope specifically includes back treatments and body wraps — broader than many states. Here is exactly how to get your West Virginia esthetician license.
West Virginia Esthetician License Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Agency | West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists (WVBBC) |
| Statutory Authority | WV Code Chapter 30, Article 27 |
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education Prerequisite | High school diploma, GED, or ability-to-benefit test |
| Training Hours Required | 600 hours at an approved school |
| Apprenticeship Available? | Yes (announced October 2024) |
| Exam Required | NIC Written + Practical + WV State Law (DL Roope) |
| Passing Score | 75% |
| Exam Fee | ~$99 (combined) |
| Student Registration Fee | $25 |
| License Fee | $35 |
| Total Initial Cost | ~$169 (excluding tuition) |
| Renewal Cycle | Annual (expires January 1) |
| Renewal Fee | $35 |
| Continuing Education | None required (eliminated 2022) |
| Apply Online | WVBBC How to Become Licensed |
| Board Website | wvbbc.com |
Education & Training Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma, GED, or have passed the ability-to-benefit test. A certificate of health from a licensed physician is also required. Complete 600 hours at an approved school.
The esthetics curriculum covers administering cosmetic treatments, cleansing, toning, effleurage, stimulating, exfoliating, applying cosmetics, makeups, oils, powders, clays, antiseptics, tonics, lotions, creams, and chemical preparations. West Virginia’s scope specifically covers the face, neck, back, shoulders, hands, elbows, and feet up to and including the knee — broader than many states that limit esthetics to the face and neck.
Full-time students typically complete the program in 4 to 6 months.
At 600 hours, West Virginia matches the national average. See our esthetician license guide and hours by state comparison.
Exam Requirements
NIC Esthetics Exams (DL Roope):
- Written Exam: 110 items (100 scored + 10 unscored), 90 minutes. Content: microbiology, infection control, safety procedures, human anatomy and physiology, histology and physiology of the skin.
- Practical Exam: Hands-on demonstration of esthetics skills.
- WV State Law Exam: 30 minutes, covers West Virginia laws and regulations.
Passing score: 75%. Register at DL Roope.
Application Process & Fees
- Register as a student ($25)
- Complete 600 hours of esthetics training
- Register for the NIC exams through DL Roope (~$99 combined)
- Pass the written, practical, and state law exams
- Submit your license application and pay $35 license fee
Total: approximately $169. A $15 work permit is available while awaiting exam results. Fee waivers available for military families and low-income applicants under WV Code 30-1-23.
License Renewal & Continuing Education
Expires annually on January 1. Renewal fee is $35. No continuing education required — eliminated in 2022 by HB 2325. Late penalty: $10/month beginning February 1, capped at $205.
Reciprocity & License Transfer
Reciprocity fee is $100. Must hold a current license with at least 600 hours of training (or work experience credits — 25 hours per month of employment, up to 50% of WV’s requirement). Must pass the WV State Law Exam only. Submit the reciprocity packet by mail.
Military Provisions
Temporary practice permit issued within 15 days for military spouses. All initial licensing fees waived for active-duty military, veterans, military spouses, surviving spouses, and low-income applicants. Board must process military applications within 15 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours do I need to become an esthetician in West Virginia?
600 hours at an approved school, typically completable in 4 to 6 months full-time.
How much does it cost to get an esthetician license in West Virginia?
Approximately $169 total: $25 student registration, ~$99 exam fee, and $35 license fee. Fee waivers available.
Does West Virginia require continuing education for estheticians?
No. WV eliminated CE for all beauty license types in 2022.
Does West Virginia require a practical exam for estheticians?
Yes. Both written and practical NIC exams plus a state law exam are required.
What body areas can estheticians treat in West Virginia?
WV estheticians can treat the face, neck, back, shoulders, hands, elbows, and feet up to and including the knee — broader than many states.
Official Resources
- West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists (official website)
- How to Become Licensed
- Fee Schedule
- Transfer License to WV
- DL Roope Exam Registration
- Board Contact: (304) 558-2924 | wvbbc@wv.gov
- Address: P.O. Box 40235, Charleston, WV 25364