Your Guide to Cosmetology Licensure in Minnesota
Cosmetologists who want to practice in Minnesota must fulfill certain state requirements.
Becoming a licensed cosmetologist in Minnesota boosts your professional credibility, ensures legal compliance, and opens up greater career opportunities. From education and licensing to continuing education, get all the information to set you on the right path as a cosmetologist in Minnesota.
Minnesota License Requirements
Basic Requirements:
You must be at least 17 years old to receive your Minnesota cosmetology license.
You must have a high school diploma or GED.
You must have graduated from a cosmetology school with at least 1,500 school hours.
Is Liability Insurance Required?
Liability insurance is not required to practice cosmetology in Minnesota; however, it is still highly recommended to have professional liability insurance.
Minnesota Cosmetology Insurance
Professional liability insurance is essential for cosmetologists because it protects them from claims related to their services.
Here are some common mishaps that professional liability insurance would protect you from:
- Allergic Reactions to Products
- Skin or Scalp Burns
- Injuries from Treatments
- Failure to Deliver Expected Results
- Negligence Claims
- Cross-Contamination Risks
- Breach of Confidentiality
Protect your career and reputation with professional liability insurance designed specifically for you. In the beauty industry, even the smallest mishap—like an allergic reaction, a slip of the scissors, or a chemical burn—can lead to serious consequences and costly legal battles.
Professional liability insurance gives you peace of mind, covering you from claims of negligence, accidental injury, or unsatisfied results. By investing in this protection, you’re not only safeguarding your business but also showing clients you care about their safety and satisfaction.
Don’t leave your future to chance. Protect it with reliable coverage that has your back.
How to Get Licensed
Steps to become a licensed cosmetologist in Minnesota:
- Education: Complete 1,500 hours of training at an approved cosmetology school and meet the basic requirements.
- Apply for the Exam: After finishing school, submit an application to the BCE to take the licensing exams.
- Pass the Exams: The exams test your knowledge of cosmetology and your practical skills. A passing score in both sections is required.
- Apply for Your License: Once you pass the exams, submit a license application to the BCE, along with proof of exam completion, any additional paperwork, and the licensing fee.
- Pay the Fees: There is a fee of $195 to receive your Minnesota cosmetology license.
- Get Licensed: Once you have completed all these steps, you will be a licensed cosmetologist in Minnesota!
License Renewal & Continuing Education
To renew your Minnesota cosmetology license:
- Complete a 4-hour Core Continuing Education Course covering:
- Safety
- Infection Control
- Laws & Rules
- Complete a 4-hour Professional Practice Continuing Education Course.
- Renew online by signing into your Minnesota Board of Cosmetology account, or complete and submit an Active License Renewal Application by mail or in person, with the required fee payment.
- Your license must be renewed every 3 years.
Reciprocity for Out-of-State Licenses
Already Licensed in Another State?
Reciprocity makes it easier to transfer your cosmetology license without having to redo full training.
To transfer your cosmetology license from another state to Minnesota, follow these steps:
- Check Your Eligibility: You must have a current, valid cosmetology license from another state and meet Minnesota’s required training hours.
- Submit a Reciprocity Application: Complete the Minnesota Board of Cosmetology's reciprocity application online or by mail. Include proof of your current license, training hours, and work experience.
- Complete Additional Requirements (if needed): If your training hours or qualifications don’t meet Minnesota's requirements, you may need to take extra courses or exams.
- Pay the Required Fee: Include the reciprocity application fee of $195 with your submission.
FAQs
Typically between 2,650 - 6,560 cosmetologists are employed in Minnesota.
The average wage for a cosmetologist in Minnesota is $40,500 - $42,490.
