Georgia licenses estheticians through the State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers, housed within the Georgia Secretary of State’s Professional Licensing Boards Division. You need a Georgia esthetician license to perform facials, skincare treatments, waxing, makeup application, eyelash extensions, and other esthetic services for compensation anywhere in the state. Georgia requires 1,000 training hours at a Board-licensed school (minimum nine months) or 2,000 hours through a formal apprenticeship, making it one of the few states that offers a genuine on-the-job training pathway alongside traditional schooling.
Georgia also stands out for requiring both written and practical exams administered by PSI Services, offering a structured apprenticeship alternative, and providing a clear career ladder to cosmetic laser services through the Georgia Composite Medical Board. Here is exactly how to do it.
Georgia Esthetician License Requirements at a Glance
| Official License Title | Esthetician |
| Governing Agency | Georgia Secretary of State, Professional Licensing Boards Division |
| Governing Board | State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers |
| Minimum Age | 17 years old (16 for apprenticeship pathway) |
| Education Prerequisite | High school diploma, GED, or higher education degree |
| Training Hours Required | 1,000 hours at a Board-approved school (minimum 9 months) OR 2,000 hours apprenticeship (minimum 18 months) |
| State Board Exam | Written (theory) exam + practical exam, both administered by PSI Services |
| Exam Fee | $109 total ($45 written + $64 practical) |
| Application Fee | $30 + $10 processing fee |
| Total Initial Cost | $149 |
| License Term | 2 years (expires August 31 of odd-numbered years) |
| Renewal Fee | $45 + processing fee every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 5 hours per renewal cycle (waived for first renewal) |
| Apply Online | Georgia Online Licensing (GOALS) |
| Exam Information | PSI Services – Georgia Cosmetology |
Step 1: Meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a Georgia esthetician license through the school pathway, you must be at least 17 years old and hold a high school diploma, GED, or higher education degree. If you choose the apprenticeship pathway instead, the minimum age is 16 years old.
Georgia also requires that applicants demonstrate “good moral character.” All criminal convictions and board sanctions are reviewed by the Board when considering licensure. If you have a criminal history, your application may still be approved, but the Board will evaluate the nature and relevance of the offense. Passing the written and practical examination does not guarantee licensure; all criminal and disciplinary matters are reviewed separately.
Citizenship or qualified alien status: Georgia requires applicants to submit a copy of a current Secure and Verifiable Document such as a driver’s license, U.S. passport, or qualified alien documentation with their application. Out-of-country applicants must submit a credentials evaluation from a Board-approved foreign credentials evaluation provider.
Step 2: Complete Your Education or Training
Georgia offers two distinct pathways to meet the education requirement for esthetician licensure.
School pathway (1,000 hours): Complete a minimum of 1,000 hours of instruction at a school of esthetics licensed by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. The program must span at least nine months. An alternative qualification is 33 semester credit hours from an accredited state technical college encompassing the 1,000-hour requirement. The curriculum covers professional practices (hygiene, safety, bacteriology, sanitation, OSHA), business practices (Georgia laws, salon development), sciences (histology of the skin, dermatology and physiology), facials, makeup application, hair removal, and spa and salon management. Georgia’s 1,000-hour requirement is the highest among major states. See the full range in our esthetician hours by state comparison chart.
Schools may teach theory online, but all hands-on practical training must take place on the school’s clinic floor under direct supervision of a licensed esthetics instructor. Full-time students typically complete the program in six to nine months.
Apprenticeship pathway (2,000 hours): As an alternative to formal schooling, Georgia allows a structured apprenticeship under the supervision of a licensed esthetician. To qualify, you must be at least 16 years old and register for a four-year apprentice license ($90 fee). You must complete 2,000 hours of supervised training over a minimum of 18 months. Your supervising esthetician must have held an active Georgia esthetician license for at least 36 months (three years) and may only supervise one apprentice at a time. You must record your training hours daily and maintain the record at the salon or shop where you work for inspectors to review. Once complete, mail the training form to the Board office in Macon.
Georgia does not allow early testing. You must complete all designated hours before you are eligible to take your exams, regardless of which pathway you choose.
Step 3: Pass the State Board Exams
After completing your education or apprenticeship, you must pass both a written (theory) exam and a practical exam. Both exams are developed by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) and administered by PSI Services LLC.
How to register: After your school or apprentice master submits eligibility documentation to PSI, you will receive instructions to schedule your exams. Register online at PSI’s Georgia Cosmetology portal, by phone at 1 (855) 744-0314, or by mail. The total exam fee is $109: $45 for the written exam and $64 for the practical exam.
Written (theory) exam: The computer-based theory exam is 90 minutes long and consists of multiple-choice questions divided into two sections: scientific concepts (55%) and skin care and services (45%). Topics include infection control, human anatomy and physiology, skin histology, dermatology, and practical esthetics applications. You must score at least 70% to pass.
Practical exam: The hands-on practical exam is also 90 minutes long and is administered at PSI testing centers. You will demonstrate esthetics skills including work area and client preparation, basic facial procedures, facial makeup application, and hair removal (waxing). You must bring your own supplies and wear a smock or lab coat and closed-toe shoes. You must score at least 70% to pass.
Testing locations: Exams are administered at PSI centers throughout Georgia, including Atlanta, Macon, Savannah, and Augusta. Arrive at least 30 minutes early with two forms of valid identification. Late arrivals will not be admitted and will forfeit their fees.
Results: You will receive your score reports by email within 48 hours. Scores are also sent electronically to the Board.
Retake policy: If you fail, you may retake only the portion failed. There is no limit on retake attempts for initial licensure applicants, but you must pay the applicable exam fee each time. To reschedule, provide at least two business days’ notice or you may forfeit your fees.
48-month testing window: If you completed your required training hours on or after July 1, 2018, you have 48 months (four years) from the date of completion to take and pass both state board exams. If you do not pass within this window, you will be required to repeat the required training hours before you can test again.
Step 4: Apply for Your License
After passing both exams, you may apply for your esthetician license. Do not apply until you have passed both the written and practical examinations and have your PSI score reports. Applications submitted before passing will be rejected.
How to apply: You can apply online through the Georgia Online Licensing (GOALS) portal or by mailing a paper application. The application fee is $30 plus a processing fee ($5 online, $10 paper). Include your PSI score reports and citizenship verification (Secure and Verifiable Document). Make checks or money orders payable to the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. Mail to: 237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, Georgia 31217.
The application must be completed, signed, and notarized (Georgia requires a legible ink seal). Allow 15 business days for processing, with an additional 15 days if supplementary documentation is needed. Incomplete applications are withdrawn after 60 days.
License Renewal
Georgia esthetician licenses must be renewed every two years. Licenses expire on August 31 of odd-numbered years (for example, August 31, 2025, August 31, 2027). The renewal window typically opens around June 1. You will receive approximately six courtesy email reminders during the renewal period, but it is your responsibility to renew on time. The renewal fee is $45, plus a $5 processing fee for online renewals or $10 for paper renewals.
Continuing education: Georgia requires 5 hours of CE per renewal cycle: 3 hours must be a health and safety course specific to your profession, and 2 hours may be trade shows, industry trends, business management, or other Board-approved courses. You are not required to submit CE proof unless selected for audit, but retain your completion certificates.
First renewal waiver: Your first license renewal does not require continuing education. This exemption applies only to your first renewal.
25-year and hardship waivers: If you have held a Georgia license for 25 years or longer, or are over 65 years old, you are eligible for a waiver of the continuing education requirement. Hardship waivers are also available on a case-by-case basis.
Late renewal: The late renewal period runs September 1 through September 30 (30 days after the deadline). The late fee is double the standard amount ($90). After 30 days, your license lapses and requires a reinstatement application ($200) with proof of all missed CE hours.
Reinstatement: If your license lapsed, submit a reinstatement application ($200 fee) and documentation of completed CE hours for every missed renewal cycle. Working with an expired license is illegal and may result in fines, disciplinary action, or criminal prosecution.
Transferring a License to Georgia
Georgia offers licensure by endorsement for out-of-state estheticians. The Board explicitly states that it offers endorsement, not reciprocity.
Endorsement requirements: To apply, you must hold a current, active esthetician license from another state with training and licensing requirements similar to Georgia’s. You will need to submit a completed endorsement application with the $75 fee, a copy of your active out-of-state license, and request that your state board send official certification of licensure directly to the Georgia Board. Your application must be completed, signed, and notarized. Apply through the paper endorsement application (online endorsement is not available at this time). Out-of-country applicants must provide a credentials evaluation from a Board-approved provider.
Excluded states: Georgia does not grant endorsement to licensees from California, Florida, Hawaii, or New York. If your license was issued by one of these states, you will need to complete Georgia’s education and exam requirements.
Case-by-case review: For all other states, endorsement is granted or denied on an individual basis in accordance with O.C.G.A. § 43-10-9, based on whether your state’s requirements are substantially similar to Georgia’s. Applications must be complete and received at least 15 days prior to a Board meeting to be added to that meeting’s agenda.
Military Service Members and Spouses
Georgia has enacted several provisions to assist military families with professional licensing.
Veterans preference points: Veterans who served during a period of conflict or war for a minimum of 90 days may claim preference points on their state board examinations. You must enclose a copy of your DD-214 with your application. Eligible veterans may also qualify for reimbursement of examination fees through the Georgia Department of Veteran Service and the Veterans Administration.
Expedited processing: Veterans, military service members, transitioning service members, and military spouses of the United States armed forces (including the National Guard) may be eligible for expedited application processing. Check the military spouse/transitioning service member box on the application to flag your status.
HB 880 (Military Spouse Licensing): Signed by Governor Kemp in April 2024, House Bill 880 allows spouses of military service members to begin working under a license they hold in another state after applying for expedited licensure by endorsement. The “Endorse Military Only” application type in the GOALS portal guides applicants through the process to determine eligibility for HB 880 benefits.
What Can You Do with a Georgia Esthetician License?
Under O.C.G.A. § 43-10-1, a Georgia esthetician is authorized to massage the face, neck, arms, or décolletage, trim or tweeze eyebrows, dye eyelashes or eyebrows, apply eyelash extensions, and wax the face, neck, arms, torso, or legs. Georgia also requires anyone applying makeup for compensation to hold either a Master Cosmetology or Esthetician license, making the esthetician license one of only two lawful paths to work as a professional makeup artist in the state.
Services outside scope: Estheticians cannot cut or color hair, perform nail services, administer injectables, perform microneedling, or operate laser or IPL devices without additional licensure.
Pathway to laser services: Licensed estheticians can apply to become an Assistant Cosmetic Laser Practitioner through the Georgia Composite Medical Board. Requirements include a current Georgia esthetician license and at least three Board-approved laser/IPL training courses. Assistant Laser Practitioners work under supervision of a physician or Senior Laser Practitioner, making Georgia one of few states with a formal career ladder from esthetics into medical aesthetics.
Career advancement: To become an Esthetics Instructor, you must hold a valid Georgia esthetician license with at least one year of work experience, a high school diploma or GED, complete an approved instructor training program, and pass both written and practical instructor exams ($75 + $10 processing fee).
Recent Legislation: SB 354 (Act 556 of 2024)
Governor Brian Kemp signed Senate Bill 354 into law on May 2, 2024, as Act 556. This legislation exempts individuals who perform only shampooing, blow-dry styling, and cosmetic application from cosmetology licensing requirements. Blow-dry styling is defined as shampooing, conditioning, drying, arranging, or styling hair using only mechanical devices (not flat irons or curling irons) and finishing with hairsprays, balms, oils, and serums. Exempt individuals cannot cut hair or apply chemicals.
SB 354 does not affect esthetician licensing. All skin care services, waxing, eyelash extensions, eyebrow services, and other esthetic procedures still require a valid Georgia esthetician or master cosmetology license. The bill passed the House 96-76 and the Senate 40-11.
Georgia Esthetician Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national median salary for skincare specialists was $41,560 per year ($19.98 per hour) as of May 2024. Overall, esthetician salaries ranged from about $27,160 to $77,330 nationally. Employment in the field is projected to grow 7% from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
In Georgia specifically, estheticians earn a mean hourly wage of approximately $17.94 per hour (roughly $37,320 annually based on full-time employment). The Atlanta metropolitan area is the highest-paying market in the state. Note that BLS data does not capture income from tips, commissions, or self-employment, all of which are common in the esthetics industry and can significantly increase total earnings. Georgia’s relatively lower cost of living compared to states like California and New York can make these earnings go further.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed esthetician in Georgia?
Through the school pathway, most students complete the 1,000-hour program in six to nine months (the Board requires a minimum of nine months). After graduation, you must pass both PSI exams and submit your license application. Total timeline from enrollment to licensure is typically nine to twelve months. The apprenticeship pathway requires at least 18 months plus exam and application time.
Can I complete an apprenticeship instead of attending school?
Yes. Georgia is one of the states that offers a formal apprenticeship pathway. You must register for a four-year apprentice license ($90 fee), train under a licensed esthetician with at least 36 months of experience, and complete 2,000 hours over a minimum of 18 months. Your supervising esthetician may only train one apprentice at a time. After completing the hours, you take the same PSI exams as school graduates.
What exams do I need to pass?
Georgia requires both a written (theory) exam and a practical exam, both administered by PSI Services. Each is 90 minutes long and requires a minimum 70% passing score. The theory exam covers scientific concepts and skin care knowledge. The practical exam tests hands-on skills. You may take them on the same day or different days.
Can I transfer my license from California, Florida, or New York?
No. Georgia does not grant endorsement to licensees from California, Florida, Hawaii, or New York. If your current license was issued by one of these states, you must complete Georgia’s education requirements and pass both state board exams. For all other states, endorsement is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Is continuing education required for my first renewal?
No. Georgia waives the CE requirement for your first license renewal. Starting with your second renewal, you must complete 5 hours of continuing education every two years: 3 hours in health and safety, plus 2 hours of elective coursework. If you have held your license for 25 years or more, or are over 65, you can apply for a CE waiver.
Can estheticians perform laser hair removal in Georgia?
Not under the esthetician license alone. However, Georgia provides a formal pathway for licensed estheticians to become Assistant Cosmetic Laser Practitioners through the Georgia Composite Medical Board. This requires completing at least three approved laser/IPL training courses and working under physician or Senior Laser Practitioner supervision.
What is SB 354 and does it affect my esthetician license?
Senate Bill 354 (Act 556), signed in May 2024, exempts shampooing, blow-dry styling, and cosmetic application from cosmetology licensing requirements. This law does not change esthetician licensing at all. All skincare services, waxing, eyelash extensions, and eyebrow services still require a valid Georgia esthetician or master cosmetology license.
For a comparison of esthetician licensing requirements across all states, including training hours, exam formats, fees, and reciprocity rules, see our complete esthetician license guide.
Official Resources
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers
Mailing Address: 237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, Georgia 31217
Phone: (404) 424-9966
Website: sos.ga.gov – Board of Cosmetology and Barbers
Apply Online (GOALS Portal):
Georgia Online Licensing (GOALS)
Application Guide (Esthetician):
How To Guide: Esthetician and Esthetics Instructor
Board FAQ:
Georgia Board of Cosmetology and Barbers FAQ
Fee Schedule (PDF):
Georgia Board Fee Schedule
Exam Information and Scheduling (PSI):
PSI National Cosmetology & Barber Exam Program
Georgia-Specific Portal: PSI Georgia Cosmetology
Phone: 1 (855) 744-0314
License Verification:
GOALS License Verification
Georgia Administrative Code (Board Rules):
GAC Chapter 130-2: License Requirements
Georgia Code (Cosmetology Statute):
O.C.G.A. § 43-10-1 et seq. (Chapter 10 of Title 43)
Cosmetic Laser Practitioner (Medical Board):
Georgia Composite Medical Board – Cosmetic Laser Practitioner
SB 354 / Act 556 of 2024:
SB 354 Signed Legislation (PDF)
HB 880 (Military Spouse Licensing):
HB 880 Military Spouse FAQ
Veterans Exam Reimbursement:
VA GI Bill – Licensing and Certification