Learn the requirements and how to apply for your cosmetology instructor license.
Who needs a license?
Anyone who provides instruction for cosmetology, barber, manicure, esthetician, master esthetician, or hair design services.
If you have an active license from another state, you can apply for a reciprocity license.
How to apply
Make sure you meet the requirements, and follow the steps below to apply for a cosmetology instructor license.
1. Meet the requirements
To get your cosmetology instructor license, you must:
- Have a current Washington cosmetologist, barber, manicurist, esthetician, hair designer, or master esthetician license before enrolling in an instructor program.
- Graduate from a state-licensed school with the 500 minimum required hours.
- Pass the state-approved practical and written examinations administered by D.L. Roope.
To get your reciprocity cosmetology instructor license, you must:
- Have a current Washington cosmetologist, barber, manicurist, esthetician, hair designer, or master esthetician license before applying for an instructor license.
- Have an active instructor license in good standing in another jurisdiction and proof you have passed that jurisdiction's approved exam(s).
2. Complete all the necessary forms
If applying by mail, complete an Instructor of Cosmetologist, Hair Designer, Barber, Manicurist, Esthetician, or Master Esthetician License, Renewal, or Reciprocity Application.
Reciprocity license applicants must also:
Provide proof of an active license in good standing in another jurisdiction and proof you have passed that jurisdiction's approved exam(s).
3. Submit your application
You can submit your application online or by mail.
Submit your application online
Get your license faster by applying online!
Log into SecureAccess Washington (SAW)
Don't have a SAW account? Learn how to create a SAW account.
Submit your application by mail
Mail your application form, any required documents, and a check or money order for the license fee (payable to the Department of Licensing) to:
Cosmetology Program
Department of Licensing
PO Box 3856
Seattle, WA 98124-3856
Get email updates
Subscribe to our mailing list to get the latest rule changes, licensing updates, and board notices by email.