Kentucky licenses cosmetologists through the Kentucky Board of Hairdressers and Cosmetologists (KBC). You need a Kentucky cosmetology license to legally perform hair, skin, and nail services for compensation anywhere in Kentucky.
Kentucky requires 1,500 hours of approved training plus PSI-administered written and practical exams. What makes Kentucky unique is its mandatory 6-month post-exam apprenticeship — after passing exams, you must work under supervision for at least 6 months before receiving your full cosmetologist license. Kentucky was also the first state to enact the Cosmetology Licensure Compact in March 2023. Here is exactly how to do it.
Recent Legislation Affecting Kentucky Cosmetology Licensing
Cosmetology Licensure Compact (SB 57, signed March 22, 2023): Kentucky became the first state to enact the Cosmetology Licensure Compact. Current member states include Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington. The Compact Commission is still establishing rules, and multistate licenses are expected to roll out in 2026.
SB 22 (effective June 27, 2025): Major exam reform legislation that eliminated the three-attempt exam cap, replaced it with unlimited retake attempts with a 30-day waiting period, abolished the mandatory 80-hour refresher course requirement, and permitted reciprocal licensure for applicants from U.S. territories.
Kentucky Cosmetology License Requirements at a Glance
| Governing Agency | Kentucky Board of Hairdressers and Cosmetologists (KBC) |
| Training Hours Required | 1,500 hours at a licensed cosmetology school |
| Apprenticeship Alternative | 3,000 supervised hours over 3 years (in lieu of school) |
| Post-Exam Apprenticeship | 6 months mandatory (minimum 20 hrs/week in a licensed salon) |
| Education Prerequisite | High school diploma, GED, or equivalent |
| Exam Required | Theory + Practical exams (PSI Services) |
| Passing Score | 70% on both exams |
| Exam Fees | Theory: $85 | Practical: $85 | Total: $170 |
| Apprentice License Fee | $25 |
| Cosmetologist License Fee | $25 |
| Total Initial Cost | Approximately $220 (excluding tuition) |
| License Renewal | Annual (July 1-31) | $20 |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Apply Online | KBC Online Portal |
| Exam Registration | PSI Exams |
| Board Website | kbc.ky.gov |
Step 1: Meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Before enrolling in a Kentucky cosmetology program, confirm you meet these requirements:
- Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent based on state-approved testing
- Exception: If enrolled in a board-approved cosmetology program at an approved Kentucky high school, the diploma/GED requirement is deferred until examination
Step 2: Complete Your Training Requirements
Kentucky requires 1,500 hours at a licensed cosmetology school. Full-time programs typically take 10 to 14 months. The curriculum must cover hair styling, esthetic practices, and nail technology. Training hours must be completed within 5 years of enrollment — hours earned more than five years prior are considered void under SB 22.
Apprenticeship Alternative: Kentucky allows 3,000 supervised hours over 3 years as an alternative to school. You must be over 16 and have completed high school.
Kentucky’s 1,500-hour requirement is the national average. For a comparison of requirements across states, see our cosmetology license requirements by state guide.
Step 3: Pass the Written and Practical Exams
Kentucky uses PSI Services (National Cosmetology Program) to administer exams. Register at PSI Exams or call (855) 340-3713.
Theory Exam: 75 scored questions plus 10 unscored experimental questions. You have 90 minutes. Passing score: 70%. You must pass the theory exam before scheduling the practical.
Practical Exam: 235 minutes covering 11 performance areas including workstation setup, manicure, nail enhancements, facials, eyebrow services, haircutting, chemical waves, relaxer application, color lift, permanent color deposit, and final sanitization. Passing score: 70%. All practical exams are conducted at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton, 2601 Richmond Rd, Lexington, KY 40509.
Exam Fees: $85 per exam (non-refundable), $170 total.
Retake Policy (per SB 22, effective June 2025): Unlimited retake attempts with a 30-day waiting period between attempts. The previous three-attempt cap and mandatory 80-hour refresher course have been abolished. Theory scores are valid for 6 months.
Step 4: Complete the 6-Month Apprenticeship
After passing both exams, Kentucky requires a 6-month supervised apprenticeship before issuing a full cosmetologist license. This two-phase process is uncommon nationally. During the apprenticeship:
- You receive an Apprentice Cosmetologist license ($25 fee)
- You must work a minimum of 20 hours per week for 6 consecutive months in a licensed salon
- The apprentice license is valid for a maximum of 18 months (extensions available from the board)
Step 5: Receive Your Full Cosmetologist License
After completing the 6-month apprenticeship, apply for your full Cosmetologist license ($25 fee) through the KBC online portal.
Kentucky Cosmetology License Fees Summary
| Fee Type | Amount | Paid To |
|---|---|---|
| Theory Exam | $85 | PSI |
| Practical Exam | $85 | PSI |
| Apprentice Cosmetologist License | $25 | KBC |
| Cosmetologist License | $25 | KBC |
| Total Initial Cost | $220 | |
| Annual Renewal | $20 | KBC |
| Restoration (expired) | $75 | KBC |
| Endorsement (out-of-state) | $100 | KBC |
License Renewal Requirements
Kentucky cosmetology licenses must be renewed annually between July 1 and July 31. The renewal fee is $20, payable by credit/debit card only through the KBC online portal (no physical payments accepted since July 2023).
No continuing education is required. Kentucky eliminated CE requirements for cosmetologists in July 2012.
Late Renewal: If not renewed by July 31, the license expires. Restoration fee: $75 plus all past-due renewal fees. If expired more than 5 years, you must retake and pass both the theory and practical exams.
Transferring Your License to Kentucky (Endorsement)
Kentucky offers endorsement (not automatic reciprocity) for out-of-state cosmetologists:
- Licensed 2+ years with proof of 2 years work history (tax documentation required): May transfer without examination
- Licensed less than 2 years: May need to pass Kentucky theory and practical exams
- Endorsement fee: $100 plus license fee
- Your originating state must send certification directly to KBC
- Kentucky credits the number of hours your originating state required, not the number you personally completed
Per SB 22 (2025): Reciprocal licensure is now available for applicants from U.S. territories.
Military Members, Veterans, and Military Spouses
Under KRS 12.245, Kentucky provides significant licensing accommodations:
- Fee Waiver: Military members (active duty, Reserves, National Guard), their spouses, veterans, and veterans’ spouses are exempt from paying license and endorsement fees
- Must submit standard required documentation per 201 KAR 12:030
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a cosmetology license in Kentucky?
The total process takes approximately 16 to 22 months. A full-time 1,500-hour school program takes 10 to 14 months, followed by a mandatory 6-month post-exam apprenticeship in a licensed salon.
How much does it cost to get a cosmetology license in Kentucky?
The total licensing cost (excluding school tuition) is approximately $220: $170 in exam fees paid to PSI, $25 for the apprentice license, and $25 for the cosmetologist license, both paid to KBC.
Does Kentucky require continuing education for cosmetologists?
No. Kentucky eliminated continuing education requirements for cosmetology license renewal in July 2012. You simply pay the $20 annual renewal fee by July 31.
Can I transfer my out-of-state cosmetology license to Kentucky?
Yes, through endorsement ($100 fee). If you have been actively licensed for more than 2 years and can provide proof of work history through tax documentation, you may transfer without examination.
Why does Kentucky require a post-exam apprenticeship?
Kentucky’s mandatory 6-month supervised apprenticeship after passing exams is designed to ensure practical experience before independent practice. During this period, you hold an Apprentice Cosmetologist license and must work at least 20 hours per week in a licensed salon.
What is the Cosmetology Compact and does Kentucky participate?
Yes. Kentucky was the first state to enact the Cosmetology Licensure Compact in March 2023. Once fully operational, Kentucky cosmetologists will be able to obtain multistate licenses to practice in all member states.
Official Resources
- Kentucky Board of Hairdressers and Cosmetologists (official website)
- Online License Application and Renewal Portal
- Official Fee Schedule
- PSI Exam Registration
- Out-of-State License Transfer Information
- Board Contact: (502) 564-4262 | kbc@ky.gov
- Board Address: 111 St. James Court, Suite A, Frankfort, KY 40601