Cosmetologist
Minnesota
Cosmetologist License Requirements
1,550 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
3 years
Renewal Cycle
$190
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedBe at least 17 years old with a high school diploma or GED
Complete 1,550 hours of training at a board-approved cosmetology school
Submit your application through the Minnesota Board of Cosmetology website
Pass the MCE General Section (155 questions, 3 hours, $35) with 75% or higher
Pass the MCE State Section (35 questions, 1 hour, $25) with 75% or higher
Pass the practical exam with 75% or higher
Pay the initial license fee ($130 = $90 license + $40 application)
Receive your Minnesota cosmetologist license
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
17 years old
Education Level
High school diploma or GED
Residency
No residency requirement
Background Check
Not required
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,550 hours
Cosmetology school (board-approved)
Apprenticeship Alternative
Not availableOnline Hours Allowed
Not specified; training must be completed at a board-approved school
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
Mostly verifiedCosmetologists in Minnesota are licensed to perform hair cutting, styling, coloring, perming, chemical treatments, shampooing, conditioning, basic skincare, nail services, and makeup application. Estheticians are separately licensed for cosmetic skin care services only and cannot perform hair services without a cosmetology license.
Examination
Written Exam
Minnesota Cosmetology Exam (MCE) - General Section
- Administered by
- PSI
- Questions
- 155
- Time
- 180 minutes
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $35
The MCE General Section has 155 multiple-choice questions with 3 hours to complete. Additionally, there is a State Section with 35 multiple-choice questions on Minnesota laws and rules (1 hour, $25 fee). Both must be passed with 75% or higher.
Practical Exam
Minnesota Cosmetology Practical Exam
- Administered by
- PSI
- Passing Score
- 75%
Practical exam covering hands-on cosmetology skills. Passing score of 75% required.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee Application fee portion of initial license cost | $40 |
Exam Fee General Section ($35) + State Section ($25). Practical exam fee not separately confirmed. | $60 |
License Fee License fee portion of initial license cost | $90 |
Total Government Fees Application ($40) + License ($90) + Written exams ($60). Practical exam fee unknown. | $190 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $15,000-$20,000
Varies by school; NOT a government fee. Includes tuition, student kit, and supplies.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
3 years
Renewal Cycle
3 years
Renewal Fee
$75
Continuing Education
4 hours — 4 hours of board-approved continuing education required per 3-year renewal cycle, covering infection control, state law, and industry-specific training. Some sources indicate 8 hours; the discrepancy may be due to recent changes.
Late Renewal Fee
$45
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedMinnesota offers licensure by reciprocity for individuals holding a valid out-of-state cosmetology license that is active and in good standing without disciplinary actions. The license must have been active for at least three of the past five years.
Additional Requirements: Active out-of-state license in good standing for 3 of past 5 years; no pending disciplinary actions
Related Licenses in Minnesota
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
Minnesota is unusual in having a two-part written exam (General + State Section) and a 3-year renewal cycle rather than the more common 2-year cycle. The state also requires a higher minimum age of 17 compared to 16 in most states.
Minnesota requires a minimum age of 17, which is higher than most states (typically 16).
The state exam has two written sections: a General Section (155 questions) and a State Section (35 questions on MN laws).
Minnesota has a 3-year renewal cycle, which is longer than the standard 2-year cycle in most states.
If a license is not renewed within 6 months of expiration, the holder must apply for a completely new license.
Minnesota does not accept out-of-state licenses automatically; licensure by reciprocity requires meeting specific criteria.
Sources
Official state board website
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Schedule through PSI at 1-800-733-9267
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Minnesota
Minnesota requires 1,550 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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