Georgia License Requirements for Beauty Careers: FAQs
This resource is for anyone considering a beauty career in Georgia. Read on to learn about entering and practicing in the beauty field in Georgia!
Beauty Education and License Requirements in Georgia
What beauty jobs can I get in Georgia?
In Georgia, you can become a licensed cosmetologist, esthetician, barber, hair designer, nail technician, or beauty instructor. You could also be a blow-dry stylist, hair braider, threader, or makeup artist without needing to seek a license from the state of Georgia.
What beauty licenses are available in Georgia?
Georgia offers 13 licenses in the beauty industry. Each has different options available for the training component with differing time to complete:
Georgia uses the terms "Master Cosmetologist" and "Barber II" instead of "cosmetologist" and "barber."
Do I need a license to be a massage therapist in Georgia?
Yes, you need a massage therapy license in Georgia. Georgia doesn't consider massage therapy part of the beauty or cosmetology industry. If you're interested in pursuing a massage therapy career in Georgia, learn the requirements from the state’s Board of Massage Therapy.
Can I perform laser hair removal in Georgia?
Yes, you can perform laser hair removal in Georgia. The Georgia Composite Medical Board provides these licenses. Laser hair removal isn’t considered cosmetic in the state of Georgia.
Can I perform permanent makeup in Georgia?
Yes, you can perform permanent makeup in Georgia. The Georgia Department of Public Health manages that licensure.
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Georgia
Is a master cosmetologist different from a cosmetologist in Georgia?
A master cosmetologist in Georgia is the same thing as a cosmetologist elsewhere.
What can a master cosmetologist in Georgia do?
A Georgia cosmetologist, known technically as a "master cosmetologist," can:
If I get a cosmetology license in Georgia, can I also get a barber license?
Yes, Georgia offers crossover licenses between master barbers and master cosmetologists. Master cosmetologists must take a minimum of 300 hours of barber-specific training to earn the license.
What classes do I need to take to be a cosmetologist in Georgia?
The approved cosmetology curriculum in Georgia includes instruction and practical work in hair, skin, and nail care.
Classwork lasts for 250 hours and is called Level 1 training. Level 1 training must be passed with a minimum of 75% before moving onto Level 2, or practical, work.
Level 1 Master Cosmetology Training: Theory-Based Hours
Level 2 Master Cosmetology Training: Practical Hours
Can I apprentice to be a cosmetologist in Georgia?
Yes, Georgia allows you to apprentice to become a cosmetologist. Master cosmetologist apprenticeships in Georgia last 3,000 hours over 18 months.
What forms do I need to submit to become a master cosmetologist in Georgia?
How to Become an Esthetician in Georgia
What do estheticians do in Georgia?
Estheticians, also called "esthetics operators" in Georgia, may:
Georgia estheticians can't diagnose or treat illnesses or use lasers without additional training.
What classes do I need to take to be an esthetician in Georgia?
Georgia requires estheticians to take 250 Level 1 theory and 750 Level 2 practical hours.
Level 1 classes include professional practices, professional ethics, and business practices.
Level 2 includes science, cleansing and disinfection, body treatments, facials, makeup, hair removal, and spa and salon management.
Level 1 Esthetician Theory Instruction
Level 2 Esthetician Practical Instruction
Can I apprentice to be an esthetician in Georgia?
Yes, you can apprentice to be an esthetician in Georgia. Esthetician apprenticeships last 2,000 hours over 18 months.
What forms do I need to submit to become an esthetician in Georgia?
How to Become a Barber in Georgia
What is a Barber II in Georgia? Is that different or more advanced than a barber?
No, Georgia refers to typical barbers with the term "Barber II." There is also another classification of barber in Georgia, a master barber, which can perform more treatments than a Barber II.
What does a Barber II do in Georgia?
Similar to a barber in other states, a Barber II in Georgia can shave or trim beards, cut or dress hair, and perform facial and scalp massages.
What can master barbers do in Georgia?
A master barber can perform all treatments a Barber II can, plus singe, color, straighten, and perm hair.
How are Barber IIs and master barbers different in Georgia?
In Georgia, Barber II professionals can perform traditional barbering treatments. Master barbers can perform additional hair treatments like those of a hair designer, including coloring and perming hair.
What classes do I need to take to be a Barber II in Georgia?
Georgia's Barber II curriculum includes theory, hair and scalp treatments, shaving, hair cutting and styling, and facial hair design and waxing.
Programs last at least seven months, including 190 classroom and 950 practical hours.
Barber II Curriculum Hours
Barber II Practical Hours
Can I apprentice to be a barber in Georgia?
Yes, you may apprentice to become a Barber II (typical barber) or master barber in Georgia.
The Barber II apprenticeships are 2,280 hours over 14 months.
All curriculum topics that are typically covered by classwork in a training program must be covered during your apprenticeship as well.
What classes do I need to take to be a master barber in Georgia?
Master barber programs in Georgia include theory, hair and scalp treatments, shaving, hair coloring, hair cutting and styling, facial hair design and waxing, and perming, relaxing, and chemical application.
The program takes at least nine months and comprises 280 hours of classroom and 1,220 hours of practical work.
Master Barber Curriculum Hours
Master Barber Practical Hours
How can I become a licensed master barber or Barber II in Georgia?
If you're a recent graduate of a Georgia barber school or apprenticeship program, you must complete the following four steps to earn your license.
- Complete educational or apprenticeship requirements.
- Pass practical and written examinations.
- Apply for licensure by examination by submitting all required forms with a nonrefundable $30 fee plus an online processing fee of $5 or a mail-in fee of $10.
- Wait for licensure approval (approximately 20 business days). You may not practice until your license is approved.
What forms do I need to submit to become a master barber or Barber II in Georgia?
Can I become a cosmetologist after becoming a barber in Georgia?
Yes, Georgia allows barber and cosmetology crossover licensure if you are a master barber. Master barbers must take 300 hours in hairstyling, nail care, skin care, and health, safety, and sanitation to become master cosmetologists.
How to Become a Hair Designer in Georgia
What can hair designers do in Georgia?
Georgia hair designers can cut, dress, singe, shampoo, perm, relax, and dye hair.
What classes do I need to take to be a hair designer in Georgia?
Hair designers in Georgia take 250 hours of Level 1 Theory and 1,100 hours of Level 2 Practical classes. Topics include theory, waving and relaxation, hair coloring, hair and scalp treatments and conditioning, hair cutting, shampooing, hairdressing, hair styling, science, and business savvy.
Level 1 Hair Designer Theory Classes
Level 2 Hair Designer Practical Classes
Can I apprentice to be a hair designer in Georgia?
Yes, you may apprentice to become a hair designer in Georgia. The apprenticeship comprises 2,650 hours over 14 months.
What forms do I need to submit to become a hair designer in Georgia?
- Application that's been filled out, signed, and notarized
- Documents related to disciplinary actions or sanctions
- Practical and written exam scores
- Legal residency documents, meaning:
- Affidavit of citizenship and "Secure and Verifiable Identity Document" OR
- Immigration documents
How to Become a Nail Technician in Georgia
What can nail technicians do in Georgia?
A nail technician in Georgia can provide manicures, pedicures, and other nail treatments.
What classes do I need to take to be a nail technician in Georgia?
Nail technician students in Georgia must take 525 credit hours over at least four months. Level 1 Theory courses run 140 hours, and Level 2 Service Application work takes 385 hours.
Level 1 Nail Technician Instructor Theory Classes (140 Hours)
Level 2 Nail Design Instructor Practical Work
Can I apprentice to be a nail technician in Georgia?
Yes, Georgia allows nail technician licensure through apprenticeship. Georgia nail technician apprenticeships last 1,050 hours over eight months.
What forms do I need to submit to become a nail technician in Georgia?
- Application that's been filled out, signed, and notarized
- Documents related to disciplinary actions or sanctions
- Practical and written exam scores
- Legal residency documents, meaning:
- Affidavit of citizenship and "Secure and Verifiable Identity Document" OR
- Immigration documents
How to Become a Beauty Instructor in Georgia
How can I become a licensed beauty instructor in Georgia?
You can become a cosmetology instructor or teach esthetics, barbering, hair design, or nail technology in Georgia by taking relevant classes and examinations. You must already be licensed and have worked in the area you plan to teach.
What can I expect from cosmetology instructor classes and tests in Georgia?
Georgia cosmetology instructor candidates undergo 750 credit hours and written and practical exams.
Georgia Cosmetology Instructor Credit Hours
Georgia Cosmetology Instructor Exams
$109 for both exams; $64 for the practical exam only; $45 for the written exam only
What can I expect from esthetician instructor classes and tests in Georgia?
Georgia esthetician instructor candidates must take 500 credit hours within nine months and complete written and practical exams.
Georgia Esthetician Instructor Credit Hours
Georgia Esthetician Instructor Exams
$34 for both exams; $19 for the practical exam only; $15 for the written exam only
What can I expect from barber instructor classes and tests in Georgia?
Barber instructor students must take 750 credit hours over one year and undergo a written and practical exam.
Georgia Barber Instructor Credit Hours
Georgia Barber Instructor Exams
$147 for both exams; $89 for the practical exam only; $58 for the written exam only
What can I expect from hair design instructor classes and tests in Georgia?
Hair design instructor students must take 750 hours of training over one year, plus written and practical exams.
Georgia Hair Designer Instructor Credit Hours
Georgia Hair Designer Instructor Exams
$34 for both exams; $19 for the practical exam only; $15 for the written exam only
What can I expect from nail technician instructor classes and tests in Georgia?
Becoming a nail technician instructor in Georgia requires 250 credit hours over four months and passing scores on written and practical exams.
Georgia Nail Technician Instructor Credit Hours
Georgia Nail Technician Instructor Exams
$34 for both exams; $19 for the practical exam only; $15 for the written exam only
Can I apprentice to be a beauty instructor in Georgia?
No, you may not apprentice to become a beauty instructor in Georgia. Classes are required.
What forms do I need to submit to become a beauty career instructor in Georgia?
- Application that's been filled out, signed, and notarized
- Documents related to disciplinary actions or sanctions
- Practical and written exam scores
- Legal residency documents, meaning:
- Affidavit of citizenship and "Secure and Verifiable Identity Document" OR
- Immigration documents
Beauty Schools and Apprenticeships in Georgia
Where can I find a list of beauty schools in Georgia?
The Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering doesn't keep a list of all state-approved schools. However, you can find school requirements on its Rules and Regulations website to check if the one you are considering meets standards.
You can also find a directory of Georgia cosmetology schools on our website, or focus on the ones we ranked top in Georgia.Can I apprentice in beauty fields in Georgia?
You can apprentice as a master cosmetologist, hair designer, esthetician, nail technician, master barber, and Barber II on your path to getting your Georgia licensure. You may not apprentice to become a beauty instructor in Georgia.
All apprentices must take the theory portion of the board exam within the first year of having their Georgia apprentice licenses.
Does Georgia offer online education options for beauty professionals?
As of 2022, the Georgia board was about to solidify rules that allow distance learning for the theoretical portion of beauty instruction. In addition, Georgia allows some continuing education classes to be taken online.
Georgia Application Process for Beauty Career Licensure
Where can I find the various application forms for Georgia beauty careers?
The Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers offers step-by-step guides and application forms through their main website. Scroll down to the "How-To Apply Guides" section and pick your chosen license for all instructions.
How do I apply for my Georgia beauty license?
After you've completed your education and exams, submit a signed and notarized licensure application, and pay a fee. Other documentation may be required based on your license. Submit your application on their online portal or "snail mail" them to the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. Processing time typically takes 20 business days.
How do I apply for the Georgia beauty exams?
After your Georgia beauty program or apprenticeship, contact PSI to arrange your written and practical tests.
What should I expect from Georgia beauty exams?
Each Georgia beauty exam has its own set of instructions:
Does Georgia offer beauty exams in languages other than English?
No, you must take Georgia's beauty exams in English. If you move from a state where you didn't take the exams in English, you must take the exams in English in Georgia.
While this may add an extra hurdle for those who speak English as an additional language, it's doable. Be sure to find a beauty school or apprentice supervisor willing to help. You could also take ESL classes at a local community center or school.
Can I get disability accommodations during my Georgia beauty exams?
You may be able to get ADA accommodations during your Georgia beauty exams if you apply for them. Test anxiety and second-language learners aren't given accommodations, but others could be. You must submit the required paperwork, proof of a disability from a medical provider, a personal letter detailing your disability and needs, and a letter from your school's ADA coordinator.
Do military members or spouses get any additional consideration for Georgia beauty licensure?
Military members, veterans, and spouses might be eligible for expedited applications or exam points.
How much do Georgia beauty career exams cost?
Master Barber Exam Costs in Georgia
Barber II Exam Costs in Georgia
Barber Instructor Exam Costs in Georgia
Esthetician Exam Costs in Georgia
Esthetician Instructor Exam Costs in Georgia
Hair Designer Exam Costs in Georgia
Hair Designer Instructor Exam Costs in Georgia
Master Cosmetologist Exam Costs in Georgia
Master Cosmetologist Instructor Exam Costs in Georgia
Nail Technician Exam Costs in Georgia
Nail Technician Instructor Exam Costs in Georgia
How do I transfer my beauty license from another state to Georgia?
Most beauty professionals from other states must apply for licensure by endorsement to practice in Georgia. This involves meeting all Georgia standards, including having completed practical and written exams in English.
If the tests were not taken in English or an exam wasn't required in the previous state, Georgia tests must be taken.
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers Endorsement Applicants
What forms do I need to submit to earn Georgia beauty licensure by endorsement?
- Application that's been filled out, signed, and notarized
- Proof of being at least 17 years old
- Copy of high school diploma, GED, postsecondary education transcripts, or degree
- Verified licenses from every state with active licenses
- Proof of passing written and practical exams in English
- If not possible, proof of passing the national exams in English once completed
- Evidence of active duty or of being a transferring military service member (if relevant)
- Documents related to disciplinary actions or sanctions
- Legal residency documents, meaning:
- Affidavit of citizenship and "Secure and Verifiable Identity Document" OR
- Immigration documents
Those applying for licensure by endorsement may only apply to the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering via mail. The online portal won't work for this.
Will my criminal record affect my ability to obtain a beauty license in Georgia?
You may sit for your beauty career exams in Georgia if you have a sanction, arrest, or conviction. The Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers will review your eligibility before granting a license.
Beauty Careers in Georgia
Can I offer beauty services from my home in Georgia?
You may offer beauty services from your home in Georgia. But, you may not use the salon or spa space for any other purpose. You also can't have your domestic space connected to the business space via a doorway or opening.
How much do beauty professionals make in Georgia?
Georgia beauty professionals generally make between $23,440 and $37,420 per year. This only includes standard career titles, not specialties.
| Career | 2021 Mean Salary | 2021 Mean Hourly Pay |
| Barbers | $34,380 | $16.53 |
| Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists | $37,420 | $17.99 |
| Manicurists and Pedicurists | $25,100 | $12.07 |
| Shampooers | $23,440 | $11.27 |
| Skincare Specialists | $37,090 | $17.83 |
| Personal Care and Service Occupations (Overall) | $29,760 | $14.31 |
Salary information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022)
What beauty jobs does Georgia not require licenses for?
Georgia doesn't require licenses for hair braiding, blow-dry styling, eyebrow threading, and makeup application.
What license is required to perform microdermabrasion in Georgia?
Georgia estheticians may perform particle microdermabrasion. This only deals with the outermost layers of the skin.
Who can perform body waxing in Georgia?
Waxing can be done by different beauty professionals in Georgia.
Though "waxing" appears in barber job descriptions, it refers to using wax to shape facial hair.
When will I be eligible to work in my beauty career in Georgia?
You may begin working after the Georgia Board of Cosmetology and Barbering has approved your license.
How can I advance my beauty career in Georgia?
You can advance your beauty career by specializing in additional techniques by gaining experience or taking continuing education classes. If you’re thinking of expanding into areas that do not require additional licensure, note that blow dry stylists, hair braiders, threaders, and those who strictly apply makeup don't need licensure.
If you want to work in an additional field that takes licensure, the state board only discusses crossing over between cosmetology and barbering. But, if another area catches your eye — like moving between cosmetology and esthetics — contact the Georgia board directly.
Estheticians could also work in a medical facility as a medical esthetician. To take it a step further, you could earn your nursing degree to become a nurse esthetician.
Further, you can move up the ladder by becoming a beauty instructor.
There are many unique ways to expand upon or advance your career. One unique path in Georgia is working in film and television. These industries are flourishing in the state and creating new jobs along the way — including for those in beauty.
Georgia doesn't maintain records of makeup artists for theatre and performance. But, the nationwide mean annual wage for those workers is $124,380 per year ($59.80 per hour). The projected national growth for the field is 37% between 2020 and 2030.
Renewing Your Georgia License
What are the Georgia beauty license renewal deadlines and costs?
Georgia has varying beauty license renewal deadlines and costs.
| License | Deadline | Renewal Cost |
| Barber II | December 31 (even years) | $50 |
| Esthetician | August 31 (odd years) | $45 |
| Hair Designer | September 30 (even years) | $50 |
| Instructor (Except Hair Design) | June 30 (odd years) | $75 |
| Instructor: Hair Design | September 30 (odd years) | $75 |
| Master Barber | December 31 (even years) | $50 |
| Master Cosmetologist | March 31 (even years) | $50 |
| Nail Technician | August 31 (odd years) | $45 |
Does Georgia have continuing education requirements for beauty license renewal or reinstatement?
To renew or reinstate a beauty license in Georgia, you must complete continuing education (CE) credits. For renewal, everyone but instructors needs at least five continuing education hours. Three must be in health and safety, and two must be a board-registered course in one of the following:
You need at least five CE hours for reinstatement for each lapsed period.
Instructors must take 15 CE hours, half of which must be related to providing education.
Does everyone have to do continuing education for their Georgia beauty licenses?
There are exemptions to Georgia beauty license continuing education requirements. Those exempted includes:
License holders who are active duty military service members, service members who are transitioning to civilian life, aged 65+, people with documented disabilities (permanent or temporary), or individuals with provable hardships could qualify for certain exceptions from CE requirements. As always, contact the Georgia board with your situation so that they can make the final determination.
How can I reinstate an expired Georgia beauty license?
You may be able to reinstate expired or revoked beauty licenses using the standard application or instructor application. You must attach all documents listed on your application and pay a $200 fee.
Who are the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers-approved continuing education providers?
The Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers provides a list of board-approved continuing education providers on their site. Though you can take classes outside of the ones from these approved providers, you need to contact the board for approval if you want those hours to count.
Other Beauty Professional Resources and Information for Georgia
Are there beauty professional shows and events in Georgia?
Atlanta Black Beauty Expo
Event for Black entrepreneurs in creative industries like hair, fashion, makeup, photography, and modeling
Atlanta Hair Loss Conference
Cosmetologists, trichologists, barbers, and other hair professionals meet to build their skills in hair regrowth
National Aesthetic Spa Network (NASNPRO) Conference
Several conferences across the country, including in Georgia
Are there beauty professional associations I can join in Georgia?
Associated Hair Professionals
National organization to improve the field and offer insurance and other benefits to members
Georgia Barber Association
Georgia branch of the American Barber Association
IATSE Local 798
Union for film, television, and theatre makeup artists and hair stylists
National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences
Accrediting organization used by Georgia; valuable to spa and salon owners
National Association of Barber Boards of America
Promotes barber education and careers nationwide
National interstate Council of Cosmetology Boards, Inc. (NIC)
Membership organization promoting standards, providing education and conferences, and more
Professional Beauty Association
National organization for beauty professionals