Delaware licenses cosmetologists through the Board of Cosmetology and Barbering under the Division of Professional Regulation (DPR), Department of State. You need a Delaware cosmetology license to perform hair, skin, and nail services for compensation anywhere in the state.
Delaware requires 1,500 training hours plus NIC written and practical exams administered by Prometric. No continuing education is required. Biennial renewal on October 31 of even years. Total initial cost is approximately $353. Here is exactly how to get your Delaware cosmetology license.
Delaware Cosmetology License Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Agency | Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (DPR, Department of State) |
| Statutory Authority | Delaware Code Title 24, Chapter 51 |
| Minimum Age | 16 years old |
| Education Prerequisite | Completion of 10th grade |
| Training Hours Required | 1,500 hours at a licensed school |
| Apprenticeship Available? | Yes — 3,000 hours |
| Exam Required | NIC Written + Practical (Prometric) |
| Passing Score | 75% |
| Exam Fees | ~$225 (Prometric) |
| Application Fee | $128 |
| Total Initial Cost | ~$353 (excluding tuition) |
| Renewal Cycle | Biennial (expires October 31 of even years) |
| Renewal Fee | ~$110 |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Apply Online | DPR Board of Cosmetology and Barbering |
| Board Website | dpr.delaware.gov/boards/cosmetology |
Education & Training Requirements
Complete 1,500 hours at a licensed cosmetology school. Delaware defines a “classroom hour” as 50 minutes of instruction per 60-minute period. The cosmetology curriculum covers hair cutting, coloring, styling, permanent waving, chemical relaxing, facials, skin care, makeup application, manicures, pedicures, artificial nail application, sanitation and infection control, anatomy, and Delaware laws and rules.
Full-time students typically complete the program in 10 to 14 months.
Apprenticeship alternative: 3,000 hours under a licensed cosmetologist (2:1 ratio to school hours). Apprentices must register with the board before beginning.
Related license tiers in Delaware: Delaware also offers Barber (1,250 hours), Master Barber (1,500 hours), Aesthetician (600 hours), and Nail Technician (300 hours) licenses. Cosmetologists who want to add shaving services can complete a 35-hour shaving certification course.
For a comparison of cosmetology requirements across all states, see our cosmetology license guide.
Exam Requirements
NIC Cosmetology exams through Prometric:
- Written Exam: 110 items (100 scored + 10 unscored), 90 minutes. Content: Scientific Concepts (35%), Hair Care & Services (45%), Skin Care (10%), Nail Care (10%).
- Practical Exam: Hands-on demonstration of cosmetology skills including hair cutting, chemical services, facials, and nail services.
Passing score: 75%. Register at Prometric.
Application Process & Fees
- Complete 1,500 hours of cosmetology training (or 3,000 apprenticeship hours)
- Register for NIC exams through Prometric (~$225 total)
- Pass the written and practical exams
- Apply through DPR ($128 application fee)
Total: approximately $353.
License Renewal & Continuing Education
Delaware cosmetology licenses expire biennially on October 31 of even years. Renewal fee: approximately $110. No continuing education required. Late renewals incur additional fees. Licenses that lapse beyond the renewal period may require additional steps for reinstatement.
Reciprocity & License Transfer
Delaware requires out-of-state cosmetologists to pass NIC exams even when transferring by endorsement — an unusual requirement compared to most states. You must provide proof of current licensure in good standing and documentation of training hours meeting Delaware’s 1,500-hour requirement. If your state’s requirements are lower, additional training may be required.
Military Provisions
Delaware provides SCRA (Servicemembers Civil Relief Act) provisions for military members. Active-duty service members and spouses holding valid licenses from other states may receive a provisional 6-month license. Military training, education, and experience (METE) may be credited toward licensing qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours do I need for a cosmetology license in Delaware?
1,500 hours at a licensed school, or a 3,000-hour apprenticeship. Full-time students complete training in about 10 to 14 months.
How much does it cost to get a cosmetology license in Delaware?
Approximately $353 total: ~$225 in exam fees (paid to Prometric) and $128 in application fees (paid to DPR).
Does Delaware require continuing education for cosmetologists?
No. Delaware does not require CE for cosmetology license renewal.
Does Delaware use Prov or Prometric for cosmetology exams?
Delaware uses Prometric to administer NIC cosmetology exams — not Prov, which many other states use.
Can a Delaware cosmetologist perform shaving services?
Not without additional certification. Cosmetologists can add shaving services by completing a 35-hour shaving certification course and paying an additional fee.
Official Resources
- Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (official website)
- Online License Application (DPR)
- Prometric Exam Registration
- Board Contact: (302) 744-4500 | customerservice.dpr@delaware.gov
- Address: Cannon Building, Suite 203, 861 Silver Lake Blvd., Dover, DE 19904