Cosmetologist in Arizona

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

Median annual salary

$35,220

trending_down -0.1% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Arizona.

engineering

7,760

Jobs (AZ)

monitoring Strong

+5.6%

10-yr job growth

payments

$237

Licensing fees

schedule

9-12 months

Time to complete

route How to become a cosmetologist in Arizona

To become a licensed cosmetologist in Arizona, applicants must complete a 1500-hour training program at a Board-approved school and meet age and education prerequisites, such as being at least 16 with two years of high school or a GED, or being at least 18. Candidates must pass both the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams, administered by Professional Credential Services (PCS). The Arizona Barbering and Cosmetology Board handles licensing, and reciprocity is available for those with comparable out-of-state licenses and who may complete an Arizona infection protection and law review class.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $29,850

25th percentile $30,460

50th (median) $35,220

75th percentile $45,280

90th (experienced) $56,150

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

checklist Arizona requirements

Licensing body	Arizona Barbering and Cosmetology Board
State license	Required
Education	1500-hour training program and either two years of high school education (10 credits) or a GED/high school diploma equivalent, OR be at least 18 years old.
Exam	NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (administered by PSI) ($177)
Application fee	$60
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Notes	Applicants must be at least 16 years old with two years of high school or a GED, or be at least 18 years old. Reciprocity is available for those with a current, valid license from another state or country with substantially similar requirements and passing the necessary exams. An infection protection and Arizona law class may be required for reciprocity applicants.

Source: Arizona Barbering and Cosmetology Board

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

psychology

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Frequently asked questions

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

To become a cosmetologist in Arizona, you need to complete the required education (1500-hour training program and either two years of high school education (10 credits) or a GED/high school diploma equivalent, OR be at least 18 years old.), pass the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (administered by PSI), and submit your application ($60 fee).

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

Yes, Arizona requires a state license to practice as a cosmetologist. The licensing body is Arizona Barbering and Cosmetology Board. You must pass the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (administered by PSI).

How much does a cosmetologist make in Arizona? expand_more

Arizona cosmetologists bring home a median salary of $35,220. — within a few percent of the $35,250 national figure. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $29,850, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $56,150.

How expensive is cosmetologist licensing in Arizona? expand_more

Costs include exam fee ($177) and application fee ($60). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.

How long does it take to become a cosmetologist in Arizona? expand_more

Expect to spend 9-12 months from start to finish in Arizona — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.