Cosmetologist in Maine
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for ME. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Maine.
Jobs (ME)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cosmetologist in Maine
To become a licensed Cosmetologist in Maine, you must apply through the Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation - Barbering and Cosmetology Licensing. Key steps include completing a 1500-hour training program at a licensed school or a 2500-hour apprenticeship, passing both the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams with a score of at least 75%, and submitting a completed application with a $40 fee. Maine offers reciprocity for out-of-state professionals whose qualifications are substantially equivalent, potentially waiving examination requirements.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Maine. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Maine requirements
| Licensing body | Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation - Barbering and Cosmetology Licensing |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1500-hour training program and 10th grade education |
| Exam | NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams ($248) |
| Application fee | $40 |
| Renewal | Every 1.0 year |
| Reciprocity | Maine offers endorsement, but applicants may need to take Maine's board exams if requirements differ.Reciprocal states: Maine offers licensure by endorsement if the licensee's home state has similar training hour requirements and board exams. If requirements differ, applicants may need to take Maine's board exams. Proof of full-time work experience as a licensed cosmetology professional in the home state may bypass the examination process. |
| Notes | Minimum age is 17 years old. Apprenticeship of 2500 hours over at least 18 months is an alternative to the 1500 school hours. A 10th-grade education or equivalent is required. Passing score of 75% on both NIC written and practical exams is required. Maine does not require continuing education for licensed cosmetologists, only for instructors. |
Source: Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation - Barbering and Cosmetology Licensing
Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Maine? See whether Maine 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_circleMaine license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.6%)
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk
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