Washington licenses cosmetologists through the Department of Licensing (DOL), Cosmetology Program. You need a Washington cosmetology license to legally perform hair, skin, and nail services for compensation anywhere in Washington state. Unlike most states, Washington does not have a separate cosmetology board — the DOL administers all licensing directly.
Washington requires 1,600 hours of approved training (or an apprenticeship of 3,000 on-the-job hours plus 244 hours of related instruction) plus written and practical NIC exams administered through D.L. Roope Administrations. The application fee is $35. Most people complete the full process in 12 to 16 months through a school program. Here is exactly how to do it. For a broader overview of cosmetology licensing nationwide, see our main guide.
Recent Legislation Affecting Washington Cosmetology Licensing
Washington enacted several important changes between 2023 and 2026:
HB 1874: Textured Hair Training (Effective March 1, 2026): Washington now requires all cosmetology school curricula to include training on the care, styling, and treatment of textured hair. The training covers techniques for cutting, styling, and chemically treating textured hair; products and tools designed for textured hair; best practices for hair health and scalp care; and cultural competency and historical education. Schools must submit updated curricula with their first renewal after March 1, 2026. RCW 18.16.020(37) defines “textured hair” as hair that naturally has a distinct shape or pattern such as coils, curls, kinks, spirals, or waves.
Cosmetology Licensure Compact (Enacted 2025, Effective June 1, 2028): Washington adopted the Cosmetology Licensure Compact under RCW 18.16.400-410. Once fully implemented, Washington cosmetologists with multistate licenses will be able to practice in all compact member states without additional licensure. The compact applies only to cosmetology (not barber, manicurist, or esthetician licenses). Licensees must hold an active, unencumbered single-state license in their home state to participate.
HB 1017: Expedited Licensing (Effective July 23, 2023): This law allows cosmetology students to sit for their licensing exams within 100 hours of completing the required training hours, rather than waiting until all hours are finished. The license is still not issued until all hours are complete, but this change reduces wait time between finishing school and taking exams.
Professional License Review Act (2025-2026): Cosmetology licensing is under review in the current PLRA cycle. The DOL conducted listening sessions in December 2025 and is conducting a comprehensive review of licensing requirements, fees, training hours, and barriers to entry. A report to the legislature is due August 31, 2026.
Washington Cosmetology License Requirements at a Glance
| Governing Agency | Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL), Cosmetology Program |
| Training Hours Required | 1,600 hours at a DOL-licensed school |
| Apprenticeship Available? | Yes — 3,000 on-the-job training hours + 244 related supplemental instruction hours |
| Minimum Age | 17 years old |
| Exam Required | NIC Written + NIC Practical exams (D.L. Roope Administrations) |
| Exam Fees | Written: ~$180 | Practical: ~$114 | Processing: ~$16 |
| License Application Fee | $35 |
| Total Initial Cost | Approximately $345 (excluding tuition) |
| License Renewal | Every 2 years | $66 |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Timeline | 12-16 months (school) or 18-24 months (apprenticeship) + 2-6 weeks (exam/processing) |
| Apply Online | SecureAccess Washington (SAW) Portal |
| Exam Registration | D.L. Roope Administrations |
| Board Website | dol.wa.gov/professional-licenses/cosmetology |
Step 1: Meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Before enrolling in a Washington cosmetology program, confirm you meet these baseline requirements:
- Age: At least 17 years old (per RCW 18.16.100)
- Education: No state-mandated high school diploma or GED requirement for licensure, though individual schools may set their own admission standards
Step 2: Complete Your Training Requirements
Washington requires completion of 1,600 hours at a DOL-licensed cosmetology school. Full-time programs typically take 12 to 16 months. The curriculum must cover:
- Shampooing, hair analysis, cutting, and styling
- Permanent waving, chemical relaxing, and straightening
- Hair coloring, bleaching, and lightening
- Artificial hair application
- Esthetics services (minimum 100 hours)
- Manicuring and pedicuring services (minimum 100 hours)
- Disinfection protocols and disease recognition
- Safety training
- Textured hair care, styling, and treatment (required as of March 1, 2026)
Important: Not all instruction may use mannequins — live model work is required during training. Any online curricula must receive specific DOL approval.
Apprenticeship Pathway
Washington offers a cosmetology apprenticeship as an alternative to school. This pathway requires 3,000 hours of on-the-job training (OJT) plus 244 hours of related supplemental instruction (RSI). Apprentices train in approved salons under direct supervision of approved journey-level trainers who have held a current license for at least 3 consecutive years. The RSI hours must be completed under a licensed instructor.
Salons must be approved by both the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council and the DOL. Apprentices earn wages during training. For more information, contact the Department of Labor & Industries at 360-902-5320 or email apprentice@lni.wa.gov.
Crossover Training
Per RCW 18.16.100(2), a person currently licensed in Washington as a barber, hair designer, esthetician, or manicurist may qualify for a cosmetology license by completing a crossover training course and passing the cosmetology examination, rather than completing the full 1,600-hour curriculum. Contact the DOL at 360-664-6651 for specific crossover hour requirements. If you are deciding between license types, see our comparison of barber vs. cosmetology licenses.
Step 3: Apply for and Pass the Licensing Exams
Washington uses the National-Interstate Council (NIC) examinations administered by D.L. Roope Administrations — not PSI, which many other states use. You must pass both a written and practical exam.
How to apply:
- Complete your training program (or reach within 100 hours of completion per HB 1017)
- Register for exams through D.L. Roope Administrations or call 1-888-375-2020
- Pay the exam fees
- Schedule your exams at an approved testing location
Exam details:
- Written Exam: 110 multiple-choice questions (100 scored, 10 pretest items). Covers scientific concepts, hair care services, skin care principles, nail technology, and infection control. 90 minutes allowed.
- Practical Exam: Hands-on demonstration of cosmetology skills. Approximately 4 to 5 hours. You must bring your own mannequin and supplies. Only disinfecting wipes are permitted — spray disinfectants are not allowed.
- Passing Score: 75 (scaled score) on both exams (per WAC 308-20-120)
- Retake Policy: You may take an exam no more than once per day. Failed exams may be retaken on a different day after rescheduling and paying the re-exam fee (per WAC 308-20-122).
- Score Validity: Examination results expire 3 years from the test date. Results older than 3 years cannot be used toward initial licensure (per WAC 308-20-120).
Step 4: Receive Your Washington Cosmetology License
Once you pass both exams and your application is approved, submit your cosmetology license application through the SecureAccess Washington portal or by mail to: Cosmetology Program, Department of Licensing, PO Box 3856, Seattle, WA 98124-3856.
Processing times:
- Online applications: Within 14 business days
- Mail applications: Within 45 business days
Your Washington cosmetology license authorizes you to perform hair, limited skin, and limited nail services throughout the state.
Washington Cosmetology License Fees Summary
| Fee Type | Amount | Paid To |
|---|---|---|
| NIC Written Exam | ~$180 [VERIFY] | D.L. Roope Administrations |
| NIC Practical Exam | ~$114 [VERIFY] | D.L. Roope Administrations |
| Credit Card Processing (per exam) | $8.00 | D.L. Roope Administrations |
| License Application | $35.00 | DOL |
| Estimated Total Initial Cost | ~$345 [VERIFY] | |
| Biennial Renewal | $66.00 | DOL |
| Late Renewal Penalty | $65.00 | DOL |
| Reciprocity Application | $60.00 | DOL |
| License Print Fee | $5.00 | DOL |
All DOL fees are established by WAC 308-20-210 and are subject to change. View the current DOL fee schedule for the most up-to-date amounts.
License Renewal Requirements
Washington cosmetology licenses expire every two years. The renewal window opens 120 days before your expiration date.
To renew:
- Renew online through SecureAccess Washington or by mail
- Pay the $66 renewal fee
- No continuing education is required
Late renewal: If you renew after your expiration date, you must pay the $66 renewal fee plus a $65 late renewal penalty ($131 total).
Cancellation (expired more than 1 year): If your license remains unrenewed for more than one year after expiration, it is cancelled. You must reapply as a new applicant, pass both the written and practical exams again, and pay current license fees.
Inactive status (per RCW 18.16.290): Licensees in good standing may request inactive status by submitting a notarized request and paying the duplicate license fee. Inactive status can be extended in 2-year increments for a maximum of 6 consecutive years. Failure to renew or extend results in cancellation.
Transferring Your License to Washington (Reciprocity)
Washington accepts out-of-state cosmetology licenses through a reciprocity process under RCW 18.16.130 and WAC 308-20-115. Requirements include:
- Hold a current, active cosmetology license in good standing from another U.S. state, territory, or foreign country
- Provide proof of passing an examination approved by the DOL director (typically NIC exam scores from your original jurisdiction)
- Submit a reciprocity application and pay the $60 reciprocity fee
No additional training required: Washington does not require reciprocity applicants to complete additional training hours if they hold a current license in good standing.
If your home state used a different exam: The DOL director determines whether your state’s examination qualifies. Contact the DOL at 360-664-6626 to confirm before applying.
If you are considering transferring to other states, see our cosmetology license guides for California, Texas, and Arizona.
Foreign-Trained Applicants
Washington allows foreign-trained cosmetologists to apply through the reciprocity pathway (RCW 18.16.130). You must hold a current, active cosmetology license in good standing from another country and provide proof of passing an examination approved by the DOL director.
If your credentials cannot be directly evaluated, contact the DOL Cosmetology Program at 360-664-6626 or email DOLCosmo@dol.wa.gov for guidance on the application process and any additional documentation requirements.
Military Members, Veterans, and Military Spouses
Washington provides licensing accommodations for military-connected applicants under RCW 18.340:
Expedited Processing: The DOL must issue licenses within 30 days of receiving a completed application from military spouses relocating to Washington.
Temporary License Option: The DOL may issue temporary licenses valid for at least 180 days while military spouse applicants complete any Washington-specific requirements. Applicants must hold an active license in another state and affirm no pending investigations or disciplinary actions.
Cosmetology Compact Benefits (effective June 1, 2028): Under the Cosmetology Licensure Compact (RCW 18.16.400-410), active military members and their spouses may designate a home state and retain that designation for multistate licensing purposes during active duty assignments, maintaining licensure portability across all compact member states.
VA Education Benefits: Military veterans may qualify for fee reimbursement through VA education benefits for cosmetology training programs.
What Can You Do with a Washington Cosmetology License?
A Washington cosmetology license authorizes the following services (per RCW 18.16.020):
Hair Services:
- Cutting, trimming, arranging, dressing, and styling hair
- Shampooing and hair analysis
- Permanent waving, chemical relaxing, and straightening
- Hair coloring, bleaching, and lightening
- Artificial hair application
- Shaving, mustache and beard design of face, neck, and scalp hair
Limited Skin Services:
- Skin toning and stimulation
- Eyelash and eyebrow tinting
- Temporary hair removal (waxing, tweezing)
Limited Nail Services:
- Manicuring and pedicuring
- Cleaning, shaping, polishing, and decorating nails
- Cuticle care and nail treatment
Important limitation: A Washington cosmetology license does not authorize sculptured or artificial nail application and removal — that requires a separate manicurist license. This is a key difference from many other states. If you are wondering whether your cosmetology license covers esthetics services, see our guide on whether you can be an esthetician with a cosmetology license.
Related License Options in Washington
| License Type | School Hours | Apprenticeship (OJT + RSI) | Key Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | 1,600 hours | 3,000 + 244 hours | Hair, limited skin, limited nails |
| Hair Designer | 1,400 hours | 2,000 + 144 hours | Hair services only (no skin, nails, or shaving) |
| Barber | 1,000 hours | 2,000 + 144 hours | Hair cutting, trimming, styling, shaving, beard design |
| Manicurist | 600 hours | 2,000 + 144 hours | Full nail services including sculptured/artificial nails |
| Esthetician | 750 hours | 2,000 + 144 hours | Skin care, hair removal, lash/brow services |
| Master Esthetician | 1,200 hours (or 450 beyond esthetician) | 2,000 + 144 hours | All esthetics plus medium-depth peels, lasers, IPL, radiofrequency |
Instructor Requirements
Washington cosmetology instructor qualifications are governed by WAC 308-20-105 and RCW 18.16.060:
- Hold a current Washington cosmetology license (or other relevant practice license)
- Complete a minimum of 500 hours of instructor training at a DOL-licensed school
- Pass state-approved practical and written instructor exams administered by D.L. Roope Administrations
- Application fee: $35
- Renewal: $66 every 2 years
A licensed instructor may engage in commercial practice for the license type held when applying for the instructor license, without maintaining a separate practitioner license (per RCW 18.16.060).
Washington Cosmetology Salary and Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, cosmetologists in Washington earn higher wages than the national median due to the state’s higher cost of living and minimum wage. The Seattle-Tacoma metro area and resort communities tend to offer the highest wages. Tips typically add 15-25% to base earnings. Salon owners and those specializing in color, extensions, or textured hair services often earn significantly more than the median.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a cosmetology license in Washington?
Through a school program, most people complete the process in 12 to 16 months. Full-time cosmetology programs (1,600 hours) typically take 12 to 14 months. The apprenticeship pathway (3,000 OJT hours plus 244 RSI hours) takes approximately 18 to 24 months. After completing training, exam scheduling and license processing add another 2 to 6 weeks depending on whether you apply online or by mail.
How much does it cost to get a cosmetology license in Washington?
The total licensing cost (excluding school tuition) is approximately $345: roughly $310 in exam and processing fees paid to D.L. Roope Administrations, and a $35 application fee paid to the DOL. Exam fees should be confirmed directly with D.L. Roope at 1-888-375-2020, as they are not publicly listed on their website.
Does Washington require continuing education for cosmetologists?
No. Washington does not require continuing education for cosmetology license renewal. You renew every two years by paying the $66 renewal fee with no CE hours needed.
Can I transfer my out-of-state cosmetology license to Washington?
Yes, through the reciprocity process ($60 fee). You must hold a current, active cosmetology license in good standing from another state and provide proof of passing an approved examination. Washington does not require additional training hours for reciprocity applicants. Contact the DOL at 360-664-6626 to confirm your exam qualifies before applying.
Does Washington offer an apprenticeship program for cosmetology?
Yes. Washington offers a cosmetology apprenticeship as an alternative to school. It requires 3,000 hours of on-the-job training in an approved salon plus 244 hours of related supplemental instruction under a licensed instructor. Apprentices earn wages during training. The salon must be approved by both the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council and the DOL.
What is the difference between a cosmetologist and a hair designer in Washington?
A cosmetologist (1,600 school hours) can perform hair services, limited skin services, and limited nail services. A hair designer (1,400 school hours) can perform hair services only — no skin care, nail services, or shaving. If you only plan to do hair, the hair designer license requires 200 fewer training hours. However, the cosmetology license provides broader scope of practice.
What is the textured hair training requirement?
Effective March 1, 2026, Washington requires all cosmetology school curricula to include training on the care, styling, and treatment of textured hair. This includes cutting and styling techniques, products and tools for textured hair, scalp care best practices, and cultural competency education. This requirement applies to all students enrolled after the effective date.
Official Resources
- Washington DOL Cosmetology Program (official website)
- Online License Application and Renewal (SecureAccess Washington portal)
- D.L. Roope Administrations (exam registration — call 1-888-375-2020)
- DOL Cosmetology Fee Schedule
- Washington Cosmetology Laws and Rules (RCW 18.16, WAC 308-20)
- Cosmetology Apprenticeship Program
- License Verification Lookup
- Contact: DOL Cosmetology Program | 360-664-6626 | DOLCosmo@dol.wa.gov