Arizona licenses cosmetologists through the Arizona Barbering & Cosmetology Board. You need an Arizona cosmetology license to legally perform hair, skin, and nail services for compensation anywhere in Arizona.
Arizona requires 1,500 hours of approved training plus written and practical exams administered through Professional Credential Services (PCS). The total cost including exams and license is approximately $237. Most people complete the full process in 10 to 14 months. Here is exactly how to do it.
Arizona Cosmetology License Requirements at a Glance
| Governing Agency | Arizona Barbering & Cosmetology Board |
| Minimum Age | 16 years old (with 2 years high school) or 18 years old |
| Education Prerequisite | 2 years of high school (10 credits) or 18+ years old |
| Training Hours Required | 1,500 hours at a Board-licensed school |
| State Board Exam | NIC written exam + practical exam (administered by PCS) |
| Passing Score | 75% |
| Exam Fee | $177 ($100 written + $77 practical, paid to PCS) |
| License Fee | $60 (paid to Board) |
| Total Initial Cost | ~$237 (excluding tuition) |
| Renewal Cycle | Every 2 years (expires on your birthday) |
| Renewal Fee | $30 |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Apply Online | bcb.az.gov |
Recent Changes to Arizona Cosmetology Licensing (2024)
Arizona updated its Administrative Code effective May 6, 2024, with several changes affecting beauty professionals. Key updates include revised definitions for “discipline” (now explicitly includes cosmetology, hairstyling, aesthetics, nail technology, eyelash technology, and barbering), new “mentor” requirements for apprenticeship programs, updated school requirements allowing virtual learning for theory curriculum, and clarified infection control and disinfection standards.
Additionally, Arizona created a new Eyelash Technician Registration (effective September 2024) that allows individuals to perform eyelash extension services with only 30 hours of Board-approved training, separate from the esthetician or cosmetology license.
Step 1: Meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirements
To pursue a cosmetology license in Arizona, you must meet one of the following age and education combinations: be at least 16 years old with two years of high school education (10 credits) or equivalent, or be at least 18 years old (which automatically satisfies the education requirement).
If you are homeschooled, you can submit an Affidavit of Intent filed with the county school superintendent. A GED or equivalent also satisfies the education requirement.
Alternative License Option: Arizona also offers a Hairstylist License requiring only 1,000 hours (vs. 1,500 for cosmetology). The hairstylist license covers hair services only—no skin or nail services. If you only want to do hair, this is a faster path.
Step 2: Complete 1,500 Hours at a Board-Licensed School
You must complete 1,500 clock hours of instruction at a cosmetology school licensed by the Arizona Barbering & Cosmetology Board. The curriculum covers hair cutting, styling, and chemical services, skin care and makeup application, nail services (manicures, pedicures, artificial nails), sanitation and infection control, and Arizona laws and regulations.
Most full-time programs take 9 to 12 months to complete. Part-time schedules extend the timeline to 12 to 18 months. Tuition varies by school, typically ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 depending on the institution.
Apprenticeship Alternative: Arizona offers a Department of Economic Security (DES)-approved apprenticeship program as an alternative to school-based training. Apprenticeship requires at least 250 hours of infection protection and law review instruction through a Board-licensed school, plus completion of remaining training hours through on-the-job practice with a licensed cosmetologist in a Board-licensed establishment.
Arizona’s 1,500-hour requirement is at the national average for cosmetology. See how all states compare in our cosmetology license requirements by state guide.
Step 3: Pass the Written and Practical Exams
After completing your training hours, you must pass both a written exam and a practical exam. Arizona uses the National Interstate Council (NIC) of State Boards of Cosmetology examinations, administered through Professional Credential Services (PCS).
To register for exams, create an account at pcshq.com and pay the exam fees: $100 for the written exam and $77 for the practical exam ($177 total). PCS will email you scheduling information for both exams.
The written exam is computer-based with 90 minutes to complete. It covers scientific concepts (chemistry, anatomy, infection control), hair care services (cutting, coloring, chemical treatments), skin and nail services, and Arizona laws and regulations.
The practical exam tests your hands-on skills in various cosmetology services. The average time for the cosmetology practical exam is approximately 4 hours. You will receive your written exam results on the same day. Practical exam results are emailed within 10 business days.
A passing score of 75% or higher is required on both exams. If you fail either exam, you can retake it by reapplying through PCS and paying the required fee.
Step 4: Apply for Your License
Once you have passed both exams, apply for your cosmetology license through the Arizona Barbering & Cosmetology Board licensing portal. The license fee is $60 (plus a $3 processing fee).
The Board receives your exam results directly from PCS. You will need to verify your lawful U.S. citizenship or legal presence, upload a 2×2 passport-style photo, and submit any required documentation.
Processing typically takes 3 to 4 weeks. Once approved, you can download and print your license from the portal.
Note: The Arizona licensing portal is not compatible with mobile phones. You must use a computer, and Google Chrome is the preferred browser.
License Renewal
Arizona cosmetology licenses expire every two years on your birthday. Initial licenses may not be valid for a full two years—they expire on your second birthday after issuance, whichever comes first.
The renewal fee is $30. You can renew online through the Arizona Barbering & Cosmetology Board licensing portal.
Arizona does not require continuing education for cosmetology license renewal. You simply pay the renewal fee, update your information, verify your citizenship status, and submit any required documentation. Processing may take up to 4 weeks.
If your license expires, you must submit a License Reactivation form through the portal. A Licensing Specialist will contact you with the cost and steps for reactivation, which may take up to two weeks.
Transferring an Out-of-State Cosmetology License to Arizona
Arizona offers license reciprocity for cosmetologists licensed in other states or countries. To qualify, you must hold an active cosmetology license in good standing with no disciplinary actions, and your original state’s training requirements must be substantially similar to Arizona’s 1,500-hour standard.
To apply by reciprocity, submit your application through the Arizona Board’s licensing portal at bcb.az.gov with the $60 reciprocity license fee (plus $3 processing fee). You must provide verification documents proving your licensure and training hours from your current state.
Important Reciprocity Requirement: All reciprocity applicants must complete an Infection Protection & Law Review class provided by the Board or its designee before receiving their Arizona license. This class covers Arizona-specific sanitation requirements and state laws.
If your previous state’s requirements don’t match Arizona’s 1,500-hour standard, you may need additional training or examination. Processing typically takes 3 to 4 weeks.
Note: Arizona does not accept the following registrations from Florida: Facial Specialist, Full-Service Specialist, or Manicurist. These are registrations, not licenses, and do not qualify for reciprocity.
Military Members, Veterans, and Military Spouses
Arizona provides significant licensing accommodations for military-connected applicants:
Priority Processing: The Arizona Board provides special accommodations to military spouses by processing their applications first.
SCRA License Portability (2023): In January 2023, Congress added a new provision to the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) that allows servicemembers and their spouses to use their professional licenses when they relocate due to military orders. To qualify under the SCRA, you must have moved because of military orders, provide a copy of those orders, have actively used your license during the two years immediately preceding the move, and notify every other licensing authority that issued your license. If these criteria are met, your license is considered valid in Arizona for the duration of the military orders.
Universal Recognition (A.R.S. § 32-4302): Arizona’s universal recognition statute allows expedited licensing for individuals who are licensed in good standing in another state at the same practice level.
Fee Waivers: Per A.R.S. § 41-1080.01, Arizona waives initial license fees for applicants whose family income does not exceed 200% of the federal poverty guidelines if applying for that specific license in Arizona for the first time.
What Can You Do with an Arizona Cosmetology License?
An Arizona cosmetology license authorizes you to perform all hair services (cutting, styling, coloring, chemical treatments, permanent waving, straightening), skin care services (facials, makeup application, waxing, hair removal from neck up except electrolysis or threading), nail services (manicures, pedicures, artificial nails), and eyelash extension services.
Cosmetologists in Arizona must work in a licensed establishment. If you want to open your own salon, you will need a separate establishment license from the Board. Each salon suite requires its own establishment license, even if located within a larger building.
Services that do NOT require a cosmetology license in Arizona:
- Threading services using cotton thread and over-the-counter astringent for hair removal
- Braiding, weaving, locking, or extending hair without applying dyes or chemicals that alter hair color or structure
- Shampooing, rinsing, and applying conditioners by students enrolled in a Board-licensed school
Mobile Services: Licensed cosmetologists may perform services outside a licensed establishment when sent by a licensed establishment at the customer’s request, or when serving clients in healthcare facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, or residences of those requiring home care due to illness or disability.
For a comparison of cosmetology licenses vs other beauty licenses, see our barber vs cosmetology license guide.
Arizona Cosmetology Salary
According to available data, cosmetologists in Arizona earn between $35,220 and $42,490 annually, with the median salary around $35,220. Actual earnings vary significantly based on experience, location, specialization, and whether you work as an employee or independent professional.
Tips can significantly increase income, often adding 15% to 25% on top of base pay. Many experienced cosmetologists work as independent contractors through booth rental arrangements, which can increase earning potential for those with an established client base.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a cosmetology license in Arizona?
Most people complete the process in 10 to 14 months. A full-time 1,500-hour training program typically takes 9 to 12 months. After graduation, exam scheduling and license processing add another 4 to 6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a cosmetology license in Arizona?
The total licensing cost (excluding school tuition) is approximately $237: $177 in exam fees paid to PCS ($100 written + $77 practical) and $60 license fee paid to the Board. Tuition at Arizona cosmetology schools typically ranges from $15,000 to $25,000.
Does Arizona require continuing education to renew a cosmetology license?
No. Arizona does not require any continuing education hours for cosmetology license renewal. You simply pay the $30 renewal fee every two years on your birthday.
Can I transfer my out-of-state cosmetology license to Arizona?
Yes, through reciprocity. Your original state must have substantially similar requirements to Arizona’s 1,500-hour standard. Submit your application through bcb.az.gov with verification documents and the $60 reciprocity fee. If your state had fewer hours, you may need additional training or examination.
Does Arizona offer an apprenticeship pathway for cosmetology?
Yes. Arizona offers a DES-approved apprenticeship program that includes at least 250 hours of infection protection and law review instruction through a Board-licensed school, plus on-the-job training with a licensed cosmetologist in a Board-licensed establishment.
What is the passing score for Arizona cosmetology exams?
You need a score of 75% or higher on both the written exam and the practical exam to pass.
How do I check the status of my Arizona cosmetology license?
Use the License Verification Look-Up Tool on the Arizona Barbering & Cosmetology Board website. You can search for any licensed professional by name or license number to confirm their status and view any disciplinary actions on record.
Do I need a separate license to open a salon in Arizona?
Yes. Even if you rent a suite within a larger building, you must have your own establishment license. Each independent business location requires separate licensing regardless of the rental arrangement.
For a comparison of cosmetology licensing requirements across all states, including training hours, exam formats, fees, and reciprocity rules, see our complete cosmetology license guide.
Official Resources
Arizona Barbering & Cosmetology Board
1740 W. Adams Street, Suite 4400
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (480) 784-4539
Email: info@bcb.az.gov
Website: bcb.az.gov
Apply for a License:
Arizona Licensing Portal
Exam Registration (PCS):
Professional Credential Services
License Verification:
Arizona License Verification Tool
Fee Schedule:
Arizona Board Fee Schedule