Cosmetologist
Rhode Island
Cosmetologist / Hairdresser-Cosmetician License Requirements
1,500 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years (biennial)
Renewal Cycle
$100
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 1,500 hours of continuous instruction at an approved cosmetology school
Be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED
Submit official transcript from cosmetology school
Submit recent passport-style photo and copy of high school diploma/GED
Register with PSI Services for written and practical exams
Pass both NIC Written Exam and NIC Practical Exam with 70% or better
Submit license application with $25 fee and $75 exam fee
Receive cosmetology license
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
18 years old
Education Level
High school diploma or GED
Residency
No state residency requirement
Background Check
Not required
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,500 hours
Cosmetology school
Apprenticeship Alternative
Not availableOnline Hours Allowed
Not specified
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
VerifiedCosmetologists in Rhode Island are licensed to perform hair styling, cutting, coloring, chemical texturing, permanent waving, manicuring and pedicuring, artificial nails, facials, and skin care.
Examination
Written Exam
NIC Written Exam
- Administered by
- PSI Services
- Passing Score
- 70%
- Fee
- $50
NIC written exam administered by PSI Services. Minimum passing score is 70%.
Practical Exam
NIC Practical Exam
- Administered by
- PSI Services
- Passing Score
- 70%
- Fee
- $25
Hands-on practical exam demonstrating competency in cosmetology services.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee License fee | $25 |
Exam Fee Combined written and practical exam fee | $75 |
License Fee Included in application fee | $0 |
Total Government Fees Application/license ($25) + exam ($75) | $100 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $10,000–$20,000
Varies by school. NOT a government fee.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
2 years (expires September 30 of every even-numbered year)
Renewal Cycle
2 years (biennial)
Renewal Fee
$25
Continuing Education
Not required
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedRhode Island considers reciprocity on a case-by-case basis. Granted to applicants with credentials equal to or greater than Rhode Island's requirements (1,500 hours). Must have high school diploma, and may need to pass written and practical exams.
Additional Requirements: Out-of-state license must be active and in good standing; training must be equivalent to RI's 1,500-hour standard
Related Licenses in Rhode Island
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
Rhode Island is one of the few states that does not allow an apprenticeship alternative for cosmetology. The passing score is 70% (lower than the typical 75% in most states). Licensing is under the Department of Health rather than a dedicated cosmetology board.
Rhode Island does not allow apprenticeships for cosmetology licensure.
The Board of Hairdressing and Barbering falls under the Department of Health, not a separate cosmetology board.
The passing score in RI is 70%, which is lower than many states that require 75%.
Sources
Official RI Department of Health
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Rhode Island
Rhode Island requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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