Cosmetologist in Utah

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

Median annual salary

$34,960

trending_down -0.8% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Utah.

engineering

3,620

Jobs (UT)

monitoring Strong

+5.6%

10-yr job growth

payments

$270

Licensing fees

schedule

9-14 months

Time to complete

route How to become a cosmetologist in Utah

To become a licensed cosmetologist in Utah, individuals must complete a 1250-hour training program through a state-approved school or an approved apprenticeship. Applicants must also pass the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams, as well as a Utah State Hair Safety Course and exam. The Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) oversees the licensing process, and while Utah does not have direct reciprocity, it offers licensure by endorsement for those meeting specific qualifications from other states.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $22,320

25th percentile $27,700

50th (median) $34,960

75th percentile $51,210

90th (experienced) $74,710

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

checklist Utah requirements

Licensing body	Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL)
State license	Required
Education	1250-hour training program (school or apprenticeship) and High school diploma or GED (or 10th-grade education for licensure)
Exam	NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams ($210)
Application fee	$60
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Notes	Minimum age is 16 years old. Apprenticeship of 1250 hours is an alternative to the 1250 school hours. A Hair Safety Course and exam are also required. Lash extension services are removed from the cosmetology license as of January 1, 2026.

Source: Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL)

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_circleUtah license required — clearer credential signal to employers
check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.6%)
check_circleLow AI disruption risk

psychology

Wondering if a cosmetologist career is the right fit?

See what the day actually looks like, who the role suits, and who should skip it — grounded in real practitioner sources.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I become a cosmetologist in Utah? expand_more

Utah requires cosmetologists to complete the required education (1250-hour training program (school or apprenticeship) and High school diploma or GED (or 10th-grade education for licensure)), pass the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams, and submit your application ($60 fee).

Is a cosmetologist license required in Utah? expand_more

Utah mandates state licensure for cosmetologists. Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) oversees the process, which includes passing the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams.

What is the average cosmetologist salary in Utah? expand_more

In Utah, the median pay for cosmetologists comes to $34,960/year. — within a few percent of the $35,250 national figure. New cosmetologists start around $22,320; seasoned professionals can reach $74,710.

How expensive is cosmetologist licensing in Utah? expand_more

Between exam fee ($210) and application fee ($60), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.

How many months or years does cosmetologist certification take in Utah? expand_more

Expect to spend 9-14 months from start to finish in Utah — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.