Cosmetologist in Connecticut
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for CT. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Connecticut.
Jobs (CT)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cosmetologist in Connecticut
To become a licensed Cosmetologist, officially known as a Registered Hairdresser and Cosmetician, in Connecticut, you must complete a 1500-hour training program at a state-approved beauty school and have at least a 9th-grade education. You will then need to pass the Connecticut Cosmetology Examination, a written exam administered by Prometric. The application fee is $100, and the exam fee is $65. Connecticut does not require a practical exam or continuing education for license renewal, and licenses are renewed every two years.
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Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Connecticut. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Connecticut requirements
| Licensing body | Connecticut Department of Public Health |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1500-hour training program and 9th grade education |
| Exam | Connecticut Cosmetology Examination (written only, via Prometric) ($65) |
| Application fee | $100 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Reciprocity | Connecticut allows out-of-state applicants to qualify with 5+ years of work experience or license transfer.Reciprocal states: Out-of-state applicants without exam-based licenses can qualify with 5+ years of documented work experience. The Department of Public Health handles transfers from other states. |
| Notes | Minimum age is 16 years old. Connecticut uses the title 'Registered Hairdresser and Cosmetician' rather than 'Cosmetologist'. A practical skills exam is not required, only a written theory exam. No continuing education is required for license renewal. Out-of-state applicants without exam-based licenses can qualify with 5+ years of documented work experience. |
Source: Connecticut Department of Public Health
Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Connecticut? See whether Connecticut 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_circleConnecticut license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.6%)
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk
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