Cosmetologist in Ohio
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for OH. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Ohio.
Jobs (OH)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cosmetologist in Ohio
To become a licensed Cosmetologist in Ohio, applicants must complete 1500 hours of board-approved cosmetology training and have at least a 10th-grade education. They must then pass the state's written and practical examinations. The Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board handles licensing, and the application fee to take the examination is $40.00. Licenses are renewed every two years, requiring 4 hours of continuing education per cycle, with some exemptions for age or years of experience. Ohio offers reciprocity to licensees from other states with substantially similar requirements and examination processes.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Ohio. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Ohio requirements
| Licensing body | The State Cosmetology and Barber Board |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1500-hour training program and 10th grade education |
| Exam | NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams ($118) |
| Application fee | $40 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing education | 4.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Applicants must be at least 16 years old and have at least a 10th-grade education. A background check is required. First-time license holders, those 65 or older, and those with 30+ years of experience may be exempt from CE hours. |
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_circleOhio license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.6%)
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk