Cosmetologist in Idaho
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for ID. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Idaho.
Jobs (ID)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cosmetologist in Idaho
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Idaho, applicants must be at least 16.5 years old and have completed the 10th grade. They need to complete 1600 hours of training from an Idaho Board-approved cosmetology program or 4000 hours through an apprenticeship. Candidates must pass the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams, as well as an Idaho Jurisprudence exam. Idaho offers licensure by endorsement for out-of-state cosmetologists who meet equivalent standards.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Idaho. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Idaho requirements
| Licensing body | Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1600 hours of training from an Idaho Board-approved cosmetology program and 10th grade education |
| Experience | 4,000.0 hours |
| Exam | NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams, and Idaho Jurisprudence exam ($208) |
| Application fee | $25 |
| Renewal | Every 1.0 year |
| Reciprocity | Idaho offers licensure by endorsement if original requirements meet or exceed Idaho's standards.Reciprocal states: Idaho offers licensure by endorsement for qualified out-of-state cosmetologists. Applicants must hold a current license in good standing, and their original licensing requirements must meet or exceed Idaho standards. An endorsement application fee of $35 is required. If previous state requirements fall below Idaho standards, additional training or examination may be required. Proof of one year of experience (2,000 hours within 10 years) may be required for endorsement applicants licensed less than four years. |
| Notes | Minimum age 16.5 years old. Apprenticeship of 4000 hours is an alternative to the 1600 school hours. |
Source: Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board
Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Idaho? See whether Idaho 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_circleIdaho license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.6%)
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk
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