Cosmetologist in Connecticut

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

Median annual salary
$37,070
trending_up +5.2% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Connecticut.

engineering
3,920

Jobs (CT)

monitoring Strong
+5.6%

10-yr job growth

payments
$165

Licensing fees

schedule
9-12 months

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.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $32,640
25th percentile $32,640
50th (median) $37,070
75th percentile $47,930
90th (experienced) $71,830

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

checklist Connecticut requirements

Licensing bodyConnecticut Department of Public Health
State license Required
Education1500-hour training program and 9th grade education
ExamConnecticut Cosmetology Examination (written only, via Prometric) ($65)
Application fee$100
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
NotesMinimum 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

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_circleConnecticut 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

How do you get certified as a cosmetologist in Connecticut? expand_more
In Connecticut, becoming a cosmetologist requires you to complete the required education (1500-hour training program and 9th grade education), pass the Connecticut Cosmetology Examination (written only, via Prometric), and submit your application ($100 fee).
Does Connecticut require cosmetologist licensure? expand_more
You cannot practice as a cosmetologist in Connecticut without a state license from Connecticut Department of Public Health. The required exam is the Connecticut Cosmetology Examination (written only, via Prometric).
What is the average cosmetologist salary in Connecticut? expand_more
cosmetologists in Connecticut earn a median of $37,070 annually. That's 5% above the national median of $35,250. The range spans from $32,640 at the entry level to $71,830 for top earners.
What's the total cost to get cosmetologist certified in Connecticut? expand_more
Between exam fee ($65) and application fee ($100), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.
How long does it take to become a cosmetologist in Connecticut? expand_more
The typical timeline in Connecticut is 9-12 months. This includes completing education, gaining any required experience, and passing the licensing exam.

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