Cosmetologist in Alabama

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AL. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary

$29,660

trending_down -15.9% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Alabama.

engineering

3,170

Jobs (AL)

monitoring Strong

+5.6%

10-yr job growth

payments

$305

Licensing fees

schedule

9-24 months

Time to complete

route How to become a cosmetologist in Alabama

To become a licensed cosmetologist in Alabama, you must complete either a 1500-hour training program at an accredited cosmetology school or a 3000-hour apprenticeship. You must be at least 16 years old and have a 10th-grade education or equivalent. After completing your training, you must pass both a written (theory) and practical examination. Alabama offers reciprocity for out-of-state licensees, with specific requirements depending on the length of licensure and prior exams passed.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $15,740

25th percentile $22,760

50th (median) $29,660

75th percentile $35,580

90th (experienced) $49,710

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Alabama. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist Alabama requirements

Licensing body	Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering
State license	Required
Education	1500-hour training program and 10th grade education
Exam	Written (Theory) and Practical Exams ($205)
Application fee	$100
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Notes	Minimum age of 16 years old and 10th grade education or equivalent is required. Apprenticeship of 3000 hours is an alternative to the 1500 school hours. School and apprenticeship hours may not be combined. Applicants must pass both written and practical exams. A temporary work permit may be issued for 6 months while awaiting exam completion for reciprocity applicants.

Source: Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth

+5.6%

Faster than average

Annual openings

75,800

Nationwide per year

Total employment

575,200

Nationwide

neurology

AI & tech impact

verified Low exposure -0.68/1.00

This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.

hub

balance Is it worth it?

check_circleAlabama license required — clearer credential signal to employers
check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.6%)
check_circleLow AI disruption risk

psychology

Wondering if a cosmetologist career is the right fit?

See what the day actually looks like, who the role suits, and who should skip it — grounded in real practitioner sources.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the steps to becoming a cosmetologist in Alabama? expand_more

In Alabama, becoming a cosmetologist requires you to complete the required education (1500-hour training program and 10th grade education), pass the Written (Theory) and Practical Exams, and submit your application ($100 fee).

Do I need a license to work as a cosmetologist in Alabama? expand_more

A state license is required in Alabama. Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering handles cosmetologist licensing — the Written (Theory) and Practical Exams is part of the process.

What do cosmetologists earn in Alabama? expand_more

cosmetologists in Alabama earn a median of $29,660 annually. That's 16% below the national median of $35,250. New cosmetologists start around $15,740; seasoned professionals can reach $49,710.

How much does it cost to become a cosmetologist in Alabama? expand_more

The full cost to enter the field runs about varies, factoring in exam fee ($205) and application fee ($100) and required training.

How quickly can I become a cosmetologist in Alabama? expand_more

In Alabama, becoming a cosmetologist generally takes 9-24 months, accounting for education requirements, hands-on training, and the exam process.