Cosmetologist
Delaware
Cosmetologist License Requirements
Governing Authority
Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (Division of Professional Regulation)
Official website →1,500 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years (biennial)
Renewal Cycle
$353
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 1,500 hours at a Board-approved cosmetology school (or 3,000 apprenticeship hours)
Be at least 16 years of age with a 10th grade education
Register through Prometric's SMT Candidate Management System online
Submit official transcripts from your school to Prometric
Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) email with login credentials
Pass both the NIC Theory Exam and NIC Practical Exam with 75% or better
Submit application with $128 fee to the Division of Professional Regulation
Receive cosmetology license
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
16 years old
Education Level
10th grade education
Residency
No state residency requirement
Background Check
Not required
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,500 hours
Cosmetology school or apprenticeship
Apprenticeship Alternative
3,000 hours required
Applicants may complete 3,000 apprenticeship hours (typically 18-36 months) as an alternative to 1,500 classroom hours.
Online Hours Allowed
Not specified
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
Mostly verifiedCosmetologists in Delaware are licensed to perform hair cutting, styling, coloring, chemical texturing, permanent waving, manicuring, pedicuring, basic facials, skin care, and makeup application.
Examination
Written Exam
NIC Theory Exam
- Administered by
- Prometric
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- Included in $225 total exam fee
NIC theory exam administered by Prometric. Delaware updated to the 2022 NIC exam version as of August 1, 2024. Must score 75% or higher.
Practical Exam
NIC Practical Exam
- Administered by
- Prometric
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- Included in $225 total exam fee
2-3 hour hands-on practical exam including hair services, basic facial, manicure, and polish application. Must score 75% or higher.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee Application fee for cosmetologist by examination | $128 |
Exam Fee Theory and practical examinations combined, paid to Prometric | $225 |
License Fee Included in application fee | $0 |
Total Government Fees Application ($128) + exam ($225) | $353 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $10,000–$20,000
Varies by school. NOT a government fee.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
Up to 2 years (expires October 31 of even-numbered years)
Renewal Cycle
2 years (biennial)
Renewal Fee
$110
Continuing Education
Not required
Late Renewal Fee
50% of renewal fee
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedDelaware offers reciprocity for cosmetologists licensed in other states. Applicants must submit a reciprocity application ($128), provide proof of current license in good standing, and demonstrate equivalent training.
Additional Requirements: Submit reciprocity application with $128 fee and proof of current out-of-state license
Related Licenses in Delaware
Esthetician
Separate LicenseSkin care, facials, and related services
Nail Technician
Separate LicenseManicures, pedicures, and nail services
Barber
Separate LicenseHair cutting, shaving, and barbering services
Special Notes
Delaware has one of the higher total government fee costs ($353) due to the $225 exam fee charged by Prometric. The minimum age is 16 with only 10th grade education required, and the late renewal fee is calculated as 50% of the renewal amount.
Delaware updated to the 2022 NIC exam version as of August 1, 2024.
The application fee ($128) is the same for examination, reciprocity, and reinstatement.
Temporary permits are available for $40.
Apprenticeship registration costs $40.
Sources
Official Delaware state website
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official Delaware fee schedule
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Delaware
Delaware requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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