Cosmetologist
New Jersey
Cosmetologist/Hairstylist License Requirements
1,200 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years (biennial, even-numbered years)
Renewal Cycle
$232
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 1,200 hours of cosmetology training at a board-approved school in New Jersey or equivalent training from another jurisdiction
Obtain a high school diploma or GED equivalent
Submit examination application with $50 filing fee to the NJ State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling
Schedule and pass the written (theory) exam through Prometric ($39 fee)
Schedule and pass the practical exam through Prometric ($53 fee)
Pay the initial license fee ($90 in the first year of a licensing cycle, $45 in the second year)
Receive your cosmetology license (processing takes approximately 2-4 weeks)
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
17 years old
Education Level
High school diploma or GED equivalent
Residency
No residency requirement; out-of-state applicants may apply via endorsement
Background Check
Not required
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,200 hours
Cosmetology school (board-approved)
Apprenticeship Alternative
Not availableOnline Hours Allowed
Not explicitly permitted; NJ programs emphasize hands-on instruction. Contact the Board for clarification.
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
VerifiedHair cutting, shaping, styling, coloring, highlighting, permanent waving, chemical relaxing, shampooing, conditioning, temporary hair removal, waxing, shaving for men, makeup application, facials, manicures, pedicures, nail enhancements, and related beauty services.
Examination
Written Exam
NJ Cosmetology Written (Theory) Examination
- Administered by
- Prometric
- Questions
- 120
- Time
- 120 minutes
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $39
120 questions total: 110 scored questions and 10 unscored experimental items. Must correctly answer approximately 83 of 110 scored questions to pass (75%).
Practical Exam
NJ Cosmetology Practical Examination
- Administered by
- Prometric
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $53
Consists of ten timed service tasks performed on a mannequin. Must score 75% or higher to pass.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee Examination application filing fee | $50 |
Exam Fee Written ($39) + Practical ($53), paid to Prometric | $92 |
License Fee Initial license fee if applying in the first year of a licensing cycle; $45 if applying in the second year | $90 |
Total Government Fees Application ($50) + exam ($92) + license ($90). License fee varies based on cycle year. | $232 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $5,000–$20,000
Varies by school; NOT a government fee. NJ requires 1,200 hours which is shorter than many states.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
2 years (expires during even-numbered years)
Renewal Cycle
2 years (biennial, even-numbered years)
Renewal Fee
$90
Continuing Education
Not required
Late Renewal Fee
$30
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedNew Jersey offers licensure by endorsement to applicants who hold a current, valid license from another state or country with equivalent education and training requirements. If education requirements differ, applicants must provide evidence of at least three years of practical experience in a licensed shop.
Additional Requirements: Must submit original certification from jurisdiction where currently licensed directly to NJ Board. Endorsement fee of $100 plus license fee applies.
Related Licenses in New Jersey
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
New Jersey's 1,200-hour requirement is one of the lower hour requirements in the nation. The state also combines its cosmetology and hairstyling licenses under a single board. License renewal occurs uniformly during even-numbered years regardless of when the license was initially issued.
NJ requires only 1,200 hours of training, which is below the national average of 1,500 hours.
Licenses expire during even-numbered years; initial license fees are prorated depending on the year in the renewal cycle.
No apprenticeship pathway is available in New Jersey.
Fees are non-refundable, including failed exam retakes.
Sources
Official state board website
Accessed 2026-02-24
Specifies 1,200 hours for cosmetology and hairstyling
Accessed 2026-02-24
Confirms 1,200 hours of approved training
Accessed 2026-02-24
Prometric scheduling portal for NJ cosmetology exams
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official NJ fee schedule, last amended December 4, 2017
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official endorsement application form
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in New Jersey
New Jersey requires 1,200 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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