Cosmetologist in Alaska
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AK. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Alaska.
Jobs (AK)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cosmetologist in Alaska
To become a licensed hairdresser in Alaska, applicants must complete either 1,650 hours of training at a board-approved cosmetology school or 2,000 hours through an apprenticeship program, along with possessing a high school diploma or GED. They must then pass both the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Examinations. Alaska does not offer a combined 'cosmetology' license, instead issuing separate licenses for specific beauty professions. The state offers licensure by waiver of examination for out-of-state licensees who meet Alaska's equivalent training and examination standards.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Alaska. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Alaska requirements
| Licensing body | Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1650 hours of training in a board-approved school or 2000 hours through an apprenticeship program. High school diploma or GED is also required. |
| Exam | NIC Written and Practical Examinations (specific to Hairdresser license) ($210) |
| Application fee | $150 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Reciprocity | Alaska offers licensure by waiver of examination for out-of-state licensees with equivalent training.Reciprocal states: Alaska offers licensure by waiver of examination for professionals holding a current, valid license from another state with equivalent training and examination requirements. Applicants must provide verification of licensure, proof of equivalent training (minimum 1,650 hours for hairdresser), and documentation of passing both written and practical examinations. Work experience can substitute for hours if needed (e.g., 1 year full-time work plus 1,500 school hours, or 2 years work experience in lieu of school). |
| Notes | Alaska does not offer a combined 'cosmetology' license; instead, it issues separate licenses for hairdressers, estheticians, barbers, and manicurists. Minimum age of 17 years old. A background check is required. Work experience may count towards training hours (500 hours credit for each year worked in the field). |
Source: Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers
Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Alaska? See whether Alaska recognizes an out-of-state credential — with the tier and pathway for all 50 states — in our Cosmetologist license reciprocity guide.
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleAlaska license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.6%)
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk
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