Cosmetologist in Montana

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

Median annual salary

$38,230

trending_up +8.5% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Montana.

engineering

600

Jobs (MT)

monitoring Strong

+5.6%

10-yr job growth

payments

$249

Licensing fees

schedule

9-12 months

Time to complete

route How to become a cosmetologist in Montana

To become a licensed cosmetologist in Montana, applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED. They need to complete a 2000-hour training program from a Montana Board-approved cosmetology school. After completing the education, candidates must pass both the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams with a minimum score of 75% and submit an application with an $80 fee to the Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. Montana does not have reciprocity agreements; out-of-state licensees must apply by examination and may need to complete additional training hours if their previous state's requirements are not equivalent. Continuing education is not required for cosmetologists to maintain their licenses in Montana.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $22,350

25th percentile $24,960

50th (median) $38,230

75th percentile $57,100

90th (experienced) $79,870

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

checklist Montana requirements

Licensing body	Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
State license	Required
Education	2000-hour training program and High school diploma or GED
Exam	NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams ($169)
Application fee	$80
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Notes	Minimum age of 18. Applicants must pass the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams with at least 75% proficiency. Continuing education is not required for cosmetologists to maintain their licenses in Montana. However, cosmetology teachers are required to complete 30 hours of CE per 2-year cycle.

Source: Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists

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_circleMontana 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 Montana? expand_more

In Montana, becoming a cosmetologist requires you to complete the required education (2000-hour training program and High school diploma or GED), pass the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams, and submit your application ($80 fee).

Is a cosmetologist license required in Montana? expand_more

Montana mandates state licensure for cosmetologists. Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists oversees the process, which includes passing the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams.

What do cosmetologists earn in Montana? expand_more

cosmetologists in Montana earn a median of $38,230 annually. This exceeds the $35,250 national median by 8%. Wages range from $22,350 (10th percentile) up to $79,870 (90th percentile).

What's the total cost to get cosmetologist certified in Montana? expand_more

Between exam fee ($169) and application fee ($80), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.

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

Expect to spend 9-12 months from start to finish in Montana — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.