Get your license: Cosmetology instructor

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.

For veterans, military personnel, and partners

Your military experience or training might help you meet licensing requirements. You may also be able to get a temporary license if you're moving here with a current license from another state. Learn more about using your military training to meet professional license requirements.

If you're a U.S. veteran, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement of your fees. Learn more about getting reimbursed for fees.

Need additional help? Here's how to contact us:

call Phone: 360-664-6626
(TTY: Call 711)
mail Email: dolcosmo@dol.wa.gov
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