Cosmetologist in Washington
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for WA. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Washington.
Jobs (WA)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cosmetologist in Washington
To become a licensed Cosmetologist in Washington, individuals must be at least 17 years old and possess a high school diploma or GED. They need to complete either a 1600-hour training program at a state-approved cosmetology school or a 2000-hour apprenticeship program. After meeting the education requirements, applicants must pass both the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams and submit a license application with a $35 fee to the Washington State Department of Licensing.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Washington. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Washington requirements
| Licensing body | Washington State Department of Licensing - Cosmetology |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1600-hour training program at a state-approved cosmetology school OR 2000-hour apprenticeship program, and High school diploma or GED. Must be within 100 hours of completing training to schedule exams. |
| Exam | NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (administered by D.L. Roope) ($294) |
| Application fee | $35 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age: 17 years old. Training hours expire after three years if not applied toward licensure for apprenticeship programs. Background check may be required. |
Source: Washington State Department of Licensing - Cosmetology
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_circleWashington license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.6%)
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk