Cosmetologist in Georgia

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

Median annual salary

$30,790

trending_down -12.7% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Georgia.

engineering

6,850

Jobs (GA)

monitoring Strong

+5.6%

10-yr job growth

payments

$139

Licensing fees

schedule

9-12 months

Time to complete

route How to become a cosmetologist in Georgia

To become a licensed Master Cosmetologist in Georgia, applicants must be at least 17 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED. They need to complete a 1,500-hour training program at a Board-approved school or a 3,000-hour apprenticeship. After completing the education prerequisite, candidates must pass both the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams. The Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers handles the licensing process, and while Georgia does not offer direct reciprocity, individuals licensed in other states may apply for licensure by endorsement.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $20,990

25th percentile $26,010

50th (median) $30,790

75th percentile $60,910

90th (experienced) $79,050

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

checklist Georgia requirements

Licensing body	Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers
State license	Required
Education	1500-hour training program and High school diploma or GED
Experience	3,000.0 hours
Exam	NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (administered by PSI) ($109)
Application fee	$30
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Continuing education	5.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Minimum age is 17 years old for cosmetology school, or 16 years old for an apprenticeship. A criminal background check may be required. Apprenticeships require 3,000 hours over a minimum of 18 months, and the theory exam must be taken within the first 12 months of the apprenticeship. 3 of the 5 required CE hours must be in health and safety courses approved by the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). The remaining 2 hours can be in other health and safety courses, industry trends, computer skills, or business management.

Source: Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers

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_circleGeorgia 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 Georgia? expand_more

The path to cosmetologist licensure in Georgia: complete the required education (1500-hour training program and High school diploma or GED), gain 3,000.0 hours of supervised experience, pass the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (administered by PSI), and submit your application ($30 fee).

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

A state license is required in Georgia. Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers handles cosmetologist licensing — the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (administered by PSI) is part of the process.

How much do cosmetologists make in Georgia? expand_more

In Georgia, the median pay for cosmetologists comes to $30,790/year. That's 13% below the national median of $35,250. Wages range from $20,990 (10th percentile) up to $79,050 (90th percentile).

How expensive is cosmetologist licensing in Georgia? expand_more

Plan on spending varies total — that covers exam fee ($109) and application fee ($30) plus your education and training.

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

In Georgia, becoming a cosmetologist generally takes 9-12 months, accounting for education requirements, hands-on training, and the exam process.

Does Georgia require continuing education for cosmetologists? expand_more

To keep your license active, Georgia mandates 5.0 CE hours every 2.0 years.