Cosmetologist in Minnesota
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MN. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Minnesota.
Jobs (MN)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cosmetologist in Minnesota
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Minnesota, individuals must complete 1,550 hours of training at a board-approved cosmetology school and hold a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must pass the Minnesota Cosmetology Exam, which includes General, State, and Practical sections. The application fee for initial licensure is $195, and the license must be renewed every three years with 8 hours of continuing education. Minnesota offers reciprocity for out-of-state licensees who meet the state's training hour requirements and hold a current, valid license.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Minnesota. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Minnesota requirements
| Licensing body | Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1550 hours of training at a board-approved cosmetology school and a high school diploma or GED. |
| Exam | Minnesota Cosmetology Exam (General, State, and Practical sections) ($60) |
| Application fee | $195 |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Continuing education | 8.0 hours per cycle |
| Reciprocity | Minnesota accepts reciprocity, but additional courses or exams may be required if standards are not met.Reciprocal states: Minnesota accepts reciprocity from other states if the applicant has a current, valid cosmetology license and meets Minnesota's required training hours. Additional courses or exams may be required if training hours or qualifications do not meet Minnesota's standards. Three years of work experience can substitute for hour deficiencies. A reciprocity application fee of $195 is required. |
| Notes | Minimum age of 17. CE requirement is 4 hours of core topics (safety, infection control, laws & rules) and 4 hours of professional practice. Exam results are valid for one year. Initial training is valid for five years. |
Source: Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners
Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Minnesota? See whether Minnesota 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_circleMinnesota 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
See all comparisons →Considering a Cosmetologist vs another career? Side-by-side breakdowns of pay, training time, and licensing.