Cosmetologist in Rhode Island
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for RI. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Rhode Island.
Jobs (RI)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cosmetologist in Rhode Island
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Rhode Island, individuals must complete a 1500-hour training program from an approved school and possess a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or have legal entry, and be of good moral character. After completing the education, candidates must pass both the written and practical NIC National Cosmetology Exams. Rhode Island offers licensure by endorsement for out-of-state applicants who meet the state's training requirements and pass the required exams.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Rhode Island. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Rhode Island requirements
| Licensing body | Rhode Island Department of Health, Board of Hairdressing & Barbering |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1500-hour training program and High school diploma or GED |
| Exam | NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams ($75) |
| Application fee | $25 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Reciprocity | Rhode Island offers endorsement if training requirements are met and prior written/practical exams were passed.Reciprocal states: Rhode Island offers licensure by endorsement. Applicants must meet Rhode Island's minimum training requirements (1,500 hours) and have their original licensing board submit verification directly to the Rhode Island Department of Health. Work experience may be considered (100 hours of credit for each 3 months licensed, up to 500 hours). If training hours are not equivalent, additional hours must be completed. Applicants must have passed both a written and practical exam approved by the Department. A 90-day temporary non-renewable license may be granted while the application is processed. |
| Notes | Minimum age of 18 years old. Must be a U.S. citizen or have legal entry into the country and be of good moral character. |
Source: Rhode Island Department of Health, Board of Hairdressing & Barbering
Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Rhode Island? See whether Rhode Island 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_circleRhode Island 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.