HealthcareLicense Required

Cosmetologist License Requirements in California

Issued by: California Board of Barbering and CosmetologyVerified: April 2026
License Required
Required
Renewal
2 years
Exam Required
Yes
Processing Time
Approximately 6 weeks after application approval for exam scheduling (3 weeks for online BreEZe applications)
Bond Required
No

Requirements

  1. 1Be at least 17 years of age
  2. 2Have completed at least the 10th grade or equivalent
  3. 3Complete 1,000 hours of practical and technical instruction at a BBC-approved cosmetology school
  4. 4Pass the BBC written cosmetology examination (administered by PSI)
  5. 5Pass the BBC practical cosmetology examination
  6. 6Submit application through BreEZe online system (breeze.ca.gov) or by mail
  7. 7Pay required examination and license application fees

How to Apply

Cosmetologists in California must be licensed by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC). Requirements include being at least 17, completing a 1,000-hour cosmetology course at an approved school, and passing both a written and practical examination administered by PSI.
Apply at California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to work as a cosmetologist in California?
Yes. Cosmetologists must be licensed by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC) before performing services for compensation. Working without a license can result in a $1,000 fine.
How many training hours are required for a California cosmetology license?
You must complete 1,000 hours of practical and technical instruction at a BBC-approved cosmetology school. The curriculum includes health & safety, chemical hair services, hairstyling, skin care, hair removal, and manicure/pedicure.
What exams are required for a California cosmetology license?
You must pass both a written examination (120 minutes) and a practical examination, both administered by PSI on behalf of the BBC. You will be scheduled for the exam approximately 6 weeks after your application is approved.
How do I apply for a California cosmetology license?
Submit a Cosmetologist Application through the BreEZe online system at breeze.ca.gov or by mail. Include proof of your 1,000 training hours from your school. Online applications are processed approximately 3 weeks faster.
Do continuing education hours affect California cosmetology license renewal?
No. The BBC does not require continuing education credits to renew a cosmetology license. You may voluntarily take CE classes, but they are not mandatory for renewal.

Related pages

Cosmetologist in other states
Other licenses in California
Data sourced from official state government portal. Last verified April 2026.
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