New Hampshire licenses estheticians through the Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics under OPLC. You need a New Hampshire esthetician license to perform facials, skin treatments, makeup application, and hair removal for compensation.
New Hampshire requires 600 training hours plus NIC written and practical exams. No CE is required. Universal license recognition (HB 594) simplifies out-of-state transfers. Eyelash extensions and threading are now exempt from licensure. Total initial cost is approximately $247. Here is exactly how to get your New Hampshire esthetician license.
New Hampshire Esthetician License Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Agency | OPLC, Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics |
| Statutory Authority | RSA 313-A:13 |
| Minimum Age | 16 years old |
| Education Prerequisite | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Training Hours Required | 600 hours at a board-approved school |
| Apprenticeship Available? | Yes (board-approved, 1,200 hours work experience alternative) |
| Exam Required | NIC Written + Practical + NH State Law (Prov) |
| Passing Score | 75% |
| Exam Fees | $192 ($88 written/law + $104 practical) |
| Application Fee | $55 |
| Total Initial Cost | ~$247 (excluding tuition) |
| Renewal Cycle | Biennial (expires last day of birth month in odd-numbered years) |
| Renewal Fee | $55 |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Apply Online | OPLC Applications |
| Board Website | oplc.nh.gov |
Education & Training Requirements
Complete 600 hours at a board-approved esthetics school. The curriculum covers facials, therapeutic skin care, makeup application, eyelash application, and hair removal. Board-approved massage therapy training may be credited toward esthetics hours per RSA 313-A:13.
Full-time students typically complete the program in 4 to 6 months.
Exemptions from licensure: Eyelash extension application (synthetic fibers) and threading are exempt from licensure under RSA 313-A:25.
At 600 hours, New Hampshire matches the national average. See our esthetician license guide and hours by state comparison.
Exam Requirements
NIC Esthetics exams through Prov:
- Written Exam: 110 items (100 scored + 10 unscored), 90 minutes. Content: Scientific Concepts (55%), Skin Care and Services (45%).
- Practical Exam: Hands-on demonstration of esthetics skills.
- NH State Law Exam: Administered alongside the written exam.
Passing score: 75%. Register at Prov.
Application Process & Fees
- Complete 600 hours of esthetics training
- Register for NIC exams through Prov ($192 total)
- Pass the written, practical, and state law exams
- Apply through OPLC and pay $55 application fee
Total: approximately $247.
License Renewal & Continuing Education
Expires biennially on the last day of your birth month in odd-numbered years (note: different year from cosmetology). Renewal fee: $55. No continuing education required. Reinstatement within one year: $55. After one year, the license lapses permanently.
Reciprocity & License Transfer
Under HB 594 universal license recognition, estheticians from states with substantially similar requirements can obtain a NH license through endorsement. Only proof of an active, good-standing license is required — no transcripts or exam results. The NH State Law exam may still be required. Fee: $55.
Military Provisions
Temporary license issued within 30 days for active-duty members or spouses. Valid 180 days with one 180-day extension. Military education and training credited toward licensing qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours do I need to become an esthetician in New Hampshire?
600 hours at a board-approved school, typically completable in 4 to 6 months full-time.
How much does it cost to get an esthetician license in New Hampshire?
Approximately $247 total: $192 in exam fees and $55 application fee.
Does New Hampshire require continuing education for estheticians?
No. NH does not require CE for any practitioner-level beauty license.
Do I need a license for eyelash extensions in New Hampshire?
No. Eyelash extension application is exempt from licensure under RSA 313-A:25.
Official Resources
- Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics (official website)
- Applications
- License Fees
- Reciprocity Information
- Prov Exam Registration
- Board Contact: 603-271-1062 | OPLCLicensing6@oplc.nh.gov
- Address: 7 Eagle Square, Concord, NH 03301