Cosmetologist in Massachusetts
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MA. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Massachusetts.
Jobs (MA)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cosmetologist in Massachusetts
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Massachusetts, applicants must complete a 1000-hour training program at a Board-approved cosmetology school and have at least a 10th-grade education. Candidates must then pass both the written and practical examinations administered by Pearson VUE. The Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering handles licensing, and licenses are renewed every two years on the licensee's birthday, with no continuing education required. Reciprocity is available for out-of-state licensees who meet equivalent standards.
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Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Massachusetts. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Massachusetts requirements
| Licensing body | Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1000-hour training program and 10th-grade education or equivalent |
| Exam | Pearson VUE Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams ($120) |
| Application fee | $68 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Reciprocity | Massachusetts offers reciprocity for out-of-state licensees with equivalent standards and prior exam passage.Reciprocal states: Massachusetts offers reciprocity for out-of-state applicants who hold a current license in good standing from a state with substantially equivalent standards and have passed an exam in that state. Out-of-country applicants must pass an examination and provide notarized school transcripts or proof of two years of experience. |
| Notes | Minimum age of 17 years old. Renewal is biennial on the licensee's birthday. A Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) acknowledgment form is required for application. |
Source: Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering
Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Massachusetts? See whether Massachusetts 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_circleMassachusetts license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.6%)
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk
Compare Cosmetologist head-to-head
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