Cosmetology License in Illinois

Illinois licenses cosmetologists through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). You need an Illinois Cosmetologist license to legally perform hair, skin, and nail services for compensation anywhere in the state, including Chicago.

Illinois requires 1,500 hours of approved training at a licensed cosmetology school (or 3,000 hours through apprenticeship) and passing a written examination. The total application and exam fees are approximately $140 to $175. Most people complete the full process in 12 to 18 months. Here is exactly how to do it.

Illinois Cosmetology License Requirements at a Glance

Official License Title	Licensed Cosmetologist
Governing Agency	Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
Online Application System	CORE (Comprehensive Online Regulatory Environment)
Minimum Age	16 years old
Education Prerequisite	High school diploma, GED, or 10th grade completion
Training Hours Required	1,500 hours at a licensed school OR 3,000 hours apprenticeship
State Board Exam	Written exam only (75% to pass)
Exam Provider	Continental Testing Services (CTS) / PSI Services
Exam Fee	Approximately $107 (paid to CTS)
Application Fee	Approximately $50-$75 (paid to IDFPR via CORE)
Total Initial Cost	Approximately $140-$175 (plus school tuition)
License Term	2 years (expires September 30 of odd-numbered years)
Renewal Fee	$50
Continuing Education	14 hours per renewal cycle
Apply Online	IDFPR CORE Portal

Step 1: Meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirements

To enroll in an Illinois cosmetology program and apply for licensure, you must be at least 16 years old and have completed the 10th grade, or hold a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

Illinois also requires a Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) check as part of the application process. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain convictions may be reviewed by the Board. Illinois licenses barbers and cosmetologists separately under IDFPR. If you’re weighing both options, our Barber vs Cosmetology License guide breaks down the key differences.

Step 2: Complete Your Training

Illinois offers two pathways to satisfy the training requirement for a Cosmetologist license.

Option A: Cosmetology School (1,500 Hours)

Complete 1,500 clock hours of technical instruction and practical training at a cosmetology school licensed by IDFPR. Most full-time programs take 12 to 15 months to complete. Part-time schedules may take 18 to 24 months.

The curriculum covers hair cutting, styling, and shaping, hair coloring, bleaching, and chemical services, permanent waving and relaxing, scalp treatments and hair care, facial treatments and skincare, makeup application, hair removal (waxing, tweezing), manicuring and pedicuring, sanitation and infection control, and Illinois laws and rules.

Tuition at Illinois cosmetology schools typically ranges from $15,000 to $18,000 depending on the school and location.

Option B: Apprenticeship (3,000 Hours)

Complete 3,000 hours of supervised training as a registered apprentice in a licensed salon. To begin an apprenticeship, you must be at least 16 years old, have completed high school or received a GED, apply for an apprentice permit through IDFPR before beginning training, and train under a licensed cosmetologist in a registered salon.

Apprenticeships must follow a structured curriculum approved by IDFPR to ensure comprehensive skill development. The apprenticeship pathway takes longer than school (typically 18 to 24 months minimum) but allows you to earn while you learn.

Pre-Graduation Exam Option

Illinois allows students to take the licensing examination before completing all required hours. You may apply to sit for the exam after completing a minimum of 1,200 hours of training. However, you must submit proof of graduation and completion of all 1,500 hours to IDFPR before your license will be issued.

Step 3: Pass the Written Examination

Illinois requires a written (theory) examination for cosmetology licensure. Unlike many other states, Illinois does not require a separate practical examination for cosmetologists.

Exam Administration

The Illinois cosmetology examination is administered by Continental Testing Services (CTS). CTS contracts with PSI Services to provide computerized testing at PSI test centers throughout Illinois and neighboring states.

The exam is available in English, Spanish, and Simplified Chinese. The Spanish and English versions are computerized. The Simplified Chinese version is available in paper/pencil format at the Michigan Avenue Test Center in Chicago.

Applying for the Exam

Apply online at Continental Testing Services (continentaltesting.net). Pay the non-refundable exam fee (approximately $107). Submit your official school transcript with the school’s seal and signature showing proof of completing the required hours (or at least 1,200 hours for pre-graduation applicants).

After your application is approved, you will receive an email from PSI with instructions to schedule your exam. You have 60 days from the date of the email to schedule and take your exam. If you do not complete your examination within 60 days, your fee is forfeited.

Exam Content

The Illinois cosmetology examination tests your knowledge in multiple content areas including scientific concepts and sanitation, analyzing and treating scalp, hair, skin and nails, cutting and styling hair, waving and relaxing, hair coloring and lightening, nail services, skin services, and Illinois laws and regulations.

Questions are supported by standard cosmetology textbooks, including Milady’s Standard Cosmetology (English or Spanish editions).

Passing Score

You must score 75% or higher to pass the Illinois cosmetology exam. Official examination results are usually released within four weeks following the date of examination. Candidates who pass will receive an Official Results Letter with instructions on how to apply for licensure with IDFPR.

Test Locations

PSI test centers are located throughout Illinois, including in Carbondale, Champaign, downtown Chicago, East Peoria, Galesburg, Glen Ellyn, Springfield, and Westmont. Some locations are proctored by onsite personnel, while others use remotely proctored testing stations.

Retakes

If you fail the exam, you must wait 30 days before reapplying to CTS. You do not need to submit supporting documents again for a retake, just the application and fee.

Important: If you fail the examination three times, you must complete a 100-hour refresher course or the 250-hour cosmetology refresher course before being scheduled for another examination. After completing the refresher course, your fourth attempt counts as the first, so there is effectively no cap on attempts once you meet the refresher requirement.

Step 4: Apply for Your License Through CORE

After passing the examination, you may apply for your Illinois Cosmetologist license. Do not apply to IDFPR until you receive your Official Results Letter from CTS. The Results Letter will include instructions on how to apply for licensure and the fee amount.

About the CORE System

On October 30, 2024, IDFPR launched CORE (Comprehensive Online Regulatory Environment), replacing the previous online licensing system. CORE is now the official portal for all professional licensing in Illinois, including cosmetology.

What you can do in CORE:

• Submit new license applications
• Renew existing licenses
• Check application status
• Update your contact information
• Print your license
• Apply for Cosmetology School licenses
• Apply as a CE Sponsor (including Domestic Violence CE)

Access CORE: idfpr.illinois.gov/core.html

The application fee is approximately $50-$75 (verify current fee with IDFPR). You will also need to complete a Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) check.

Processing time is typically 10 business days, but for some professions it may take 4-6 weeks.

License Renewal

Illinois Cosmetologist licenses expire on September 30 of odd-numbered years (2025, 2027, 2029, etc.) and must be renewed every two years. The renewal fee is $50.

IDFPR no longer mails paper licenses or renewal reminders. You must renew online through CORE and can print your license from your IDFPR account.

Continuing Education Requirements

Illinois requires 14 hours of Board-approved continuing education every two years for cosmetologists. At least 7 hours must be taken in a classroom or instructor-led format. The remaining 7 hours may be completed online.

Required topics include a one-time, 1-hour course on Domestic Violence (required for select professions including cosmetologists as of recent legislation) and general cosmetology-related topics from approved CE sponsors.

CE Exemptions

First-time renewal: If this is your first license renewal after initial licensure, you are exempt from the continuing education requirements.

Important: As of 2017, Illinois removed the continuing education exemption for licensees based on age or years of experience. All cosmetologists, cosmetology teachers, and cosmetology clinic teachers must complete CE requirements regardless of how long they have been licensed.

Late Renewal, Reinstatement, and Restoration

If you miss the September 30 renewal deadline, you cannot renew online. Illinois uses different terms depending on how long your license has been expired:

• Reinstatement: License expired or inactive for less than 5 years
• Restoration: License expired or inactive for 5 years or more

How to Reinstate an Illinois Cosmetology License (Expired Less Than 5 Years)

If your cosmetology license expired within the last 5 years, you can reinstate it by submitting:

1. Signed reinstatement request including your full name, license number (or last 4 of SSN if unknown), current address, phone, and email
2. 14 hours of continuing education (7 hours live/classroom, 7 hours may be online) completed within the 2 years immediately preceding reinstatement. Must include the one-time 1-hour Domestic Violence course.
3. Child support compliance statement (required by Illinois law)
4. Reinstatement fee of $150 (for licenses that just expired). Fees increase each renewal cycle your license remains expired.

Mail your application and fee to:
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
Division of Professional Regulation
P.O. Box 7450
Springfield, IL 62791-7450

First-time renewal exemption: If your license expired before your first renewal, you are exempt from the CE requirement for reinstatement.

Start here: IDFPR Reactivate Your License (cosmetologists can click the link for select professions to access the fee chart and application)

How to Restore an Illinois Cosmetology License (Expired 5+ Years)

If your license has been expired or inactive for 5 years or more, the requirements are more extensive. You must demonstrate competency through one of these pathways:

Option 1: Practice in Another State

• Verification of employment as a cosmetologist in another jurisdiction for at least 24 months within the past 5 years (from 3 clients, coworkers, or business owners)
• Certification of licensure from that state
• 14 hours of CE completed within the 2 years before restoration
• Pay the restoration fee

Option 2: 250-Hour Refresher Course

• Complete a 250-hour cosmetology refresher course at a licensed Illinois cosmetology school
• The refresher course covers basic training, chemical applications, hair styling, shop management, esthetics, and nail technology
• Up to 10% of hours may be completed online
• If you complete the refresher course, you are NOT required to complete the 14 hours of CE

Option 3: Retake the State Exam

• Pass the Illinois cosmetology licensing examination
• Contact IDFPR for prior approval before scheduling the exam
• If you pass the exam, you are NOT required to complete the 14 hours of CE

Military Exception: If you are restoring your license within 2 years of separation from honorable active military service, you only need to submit your DD-214 and pay the current renewal fee.

Contact IDFPR at 1-800-560-6420 to request a restoration application packet.

Transferring an Out-of-State Cosmetology License to Illinois

Illinois offers licensure by endorsement for cosmetologists who hold a current, active license in another state or jurisdiction with requirements substantially similar to Illinois.

Requirements for Endorsement

To apply for licensure by endorsement, you must hold an active license in good standing from another state, have completed training and passed a licensing examination substantially similar to Illinois requirements, and provide official certification of licensure from your current state (sent directly to IDFPR).

Illinois may credit up to 300 hours for each year of licensed work experience (maximum of 3 years, or 900 hours) toward the 1,500-hour training requirement. This means if you have at least 1 year of licensed work experience, you may qualify for endorsement even if your original training was less than 1,500 hours.

If you are already licensed in another state, do not apply to Continental Testing Services. Apply directly to IDFPR through CORE for licensure by endorsement.

The endorsement application fee is approximately $45-$50 (verify current fee with IDFPR). Processing can take 4-8 weeks due to high volumes.

States Without Full Reciprocity

Illinois does not have reciprocity agreements with all states. According to multiple sources, Illinois may not have full reciprocity with Connecticut, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, New Jersey, New Mexico, Rhode Island, and Utah. Applicants from these states may need to meet additional training or examination requirements.

Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Contact IDFPR for specifics regarding your situation.

Other License Types

In addition to the Cosmetologist license, Illinois offers several specialty licenses under the Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Hair Braiding, and Nail Technology Act of 1985.

Esthetician: 750 hours of training. Covers skincare, facials, makeup, and hair removal. Licenses expire September 30 of odd-numbered years. Requires 10 hours of CE per renewal cycle (5 hours may be online).

Nail Technician: 350 hours of training. Covers manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements. Licenses expire October 31 of even-numbered years. Requires 10 hours of CE per renewal cycle.

Hair Braider: No hourly training requirement (registration only). Covers natural hair braiding, locking, and twisting without chemicals. Licenses expire October 31 of even-numbered years.

Barber: 1,500 hours of training. Licensed separately from cosmetologists. Licenses expire July 31 of odd-numbered years. Barbers are not required to complete continuing education for renewal.

Cosmetology Teacher: Requires a current cosmetology license plus additional teacher training. Allows you to teach in licensed cosmetology schools.

Illinois Cosmetologist Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), the national median hourly wage for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists was $16.95 per hour (approximately $35,250 annually). The lowest 10 percent earned less than $11.82 per hour, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $33.76 per hour.

Salary.com reports the average salary for a cosmetologist in Illinois as approximately $30,901 per year as of January 2026, with Chicago-area cosmetologists averaging $31,301. ZipRecruiter reports the average hourly pay for a cosmetologist in Illinois as $20.17 per hour.

Illinois ranks among the higher-paying states for cosmetologists. The BLS lists Illinois among the top-paying states, along with Washington, Maine, Minnesota, and New Jersey.

Note that BLS data does not capture income from tips, commissions on product sales, or self-employment earnings, which are common in the cosmetology industry and can significantly increase total compensation. Glassdoor reports estimated total pay for cosmetologists in the Chicago area as $68,487 per year including tips and additional compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a licensed cosmetologist in Illinois?

Most people complete the process in 12 to 18 months. A full-time 1,500-hour school program typically takes 12 to 15 months. The apprenticeship pathway requires 3,000 hours (typically 18-24 months minimum). After completing training, the exam and application process adds another 4 to 8 weeks.

Does Illinois require a practical exam?

No. Illinois requires only a written (theory) examination for cosmetology licensure. This is different from many other states that require both written and practical exams.

What score do I need to pass the Illinois cosmetology exam?

You must score 75% or higher to pass. This is higher than some other states that require only 70%.

Can I transfer my out-of-state cosmetology license to Illinois?

Yes, through licensure by endorsement. Apply directly to IDFPR through the CORE portal (not to Continental Testing Services). Illinois may credit work experience toward training hour requirements. Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and not all states have full reciprocity agreements with Illinois.

Does Illinois offer an apprenticeship pathway?

Yes. Illinois offers an apprenticeship pathway requiring 3,000 hours of supervised training (double the school hours). You must obtain an apprentice permit from IDFPR before beginning training and work under a licensed cosmetologist in a registered salon.

What is CORE and how do I use it?

CORE (Comprehensive Online Regulatory Environment) is IDFPR’s new online licensing system launched on October 30, 2024. Use CORE to apply for new licenses, renew existing licenses, check application status, and print your license. Access CORE at idfpr.illinois.gov/core.html.

What continuing education is required in Illinois?

Illinois requires 14 hours of Board-approved CE every two years for cosmetologists. At least 7 hours must be classroom/instructor-led; the remaining 7 hours may be online. Your first renewal after initial licensure is exempt from CE requirements. There is no exemption based on age or years of experience.

When do Illinois cosmetology licenses expire?

Cosmetologist licenses expire on September 30 of odd-numbered years (2025, 2027, 2029, etc.). You can renew online through CORE 2-3 months before the expiration date.

Is a Chicago cosmetology license different from an Illinois license?

No. Illinois licenses are issued at the state level. Once you have an Illinois cosmetology license, you can work anywhere in the state, including Chicago and all other cities.

How do I reinstate my expired Illinois cosmetology license?

If your license expired within the last 5 years, submit a signed reinstatement request, proof of 14 hours of CE (completed within the past 2 years), a child support compliance statement, and the $150 reinstatement fee to IDFPR by mail. Start at IDFPR Reactivate Your License. If your license has been expired for 5+ years, you must apply for “restoration,” which requires either proof of practice in another state, completing a 250-hour refresher course, or retaking the state exam.

What is the difference between reinstatement and restoration in Illinois?

Reinstatement applies to licenses expired or inactive for less than 5 years, which is the simpler process requiring CE and a fee. Restoration applies to licenses expired 5+ years, which requires additional steps like proving you practiced elsewhere, completing a 250-hour refresher course, or retaking the licensing exam.

What happens if I fail the exam three times?

If you fail the examination three times, you must complete a 100-hour refresher course (or 250-hour cosmetology refresher course) before being scheduled for another examination. After completing the refresher, your fourth attempt counts as your first, so there is no permanent cap on attempts.

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

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
100 W. Randolph Street, 9th Floor, Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: 1-800-560-6420
Website: IDFPR Cosmetology

CORE – Apply for Licensure Online:
idfpr.illinois.gov/core.html
(Comprehensive Online Regulatory Environment – launched October 30, 2024)

Schedule Your Exam (Continental Testing Services):
Continental Testing Services
Phone: PSI at 1-800-733-9267

Exam Study Guide:
Illinois Cosmetology English Study Guide (PDF)

License Verification:
IDFPR License Lookup

Continuing Education Providers:
IDFPR Approved CE Sponsors

Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Hair Braiding, and Nail Technology Act of 1985:
225 ILCS 410