Iowa License Requirements
Last Updated: April 25, 2017
To enjoy a long and rewarding career in the cosmetology industry of Iowa, you have to go through the licensing process mandated by the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. After choosing a specialty, you are required to complete at least the minimum amount of training hours listed below. Your school must be approved by the Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. Learn more about Iowa beauty schools, the programs they offer, and how they can help you prepare for your future cosmetology career by contacting the schools on our site today.
Once you have successfully completed your training program, you can apply to take your licensing exams through the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. Passing your practical and written exams allows you to apply for your practice license, which you should then receive in the mail. The state of IA does allow apprenticeship to get your training hours for some beauty profession licenses, see below. Iowa uses PSI for its cosmetology board exams, and you may take the exam in English only.
Keep in mind, even though Iowa only requires 8 hours of continuing education to renew some licenses, you may wish to consider taking cosmetology continuing education hours in Iowa annually to keep your skills up-to-date with what the industry expects.
For specific questions, please contact the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences directly for more information.
2017 Iowa Board of Cosmetology License Requirements
- COSMETOLOGIST LICENSE: 2100 Hours
- BARBER LICENSE: Contact the Iowa Board of Barbering
- ESTHETICIAN LICENSE: 600 Hours
- NAIL TECHNICIAN LICENSE: 325 Hours
- ELECTROLOGIST LICENSE: 400 Hours
- COSMETOLOGY INSTRUCTOR LICENSE: Cosmetology License + 1000 Hours Instructor Training OR 2 Years Work Experience in Last 6 Years
- MASSAGE THERAPIST LICENSE: 500 Hours
Iowa Cosmetology License Renewal
Iowa cosmetology licenses expire every two years, and must be renewed by April 1 of even-numbered years. The fee to renew your license is $60. Iowa requires 8 hours of cosmetology continuing education each period to renew. Barbers only have to complete 4 hours of continuing education during each renewal period.
Cosmetology License Reciprocity (Transfer) to Iowa
Unlike many other states, Iowa does not have a process for transferring your license or earning your Iowa license through reciprocity. To begin the process, you must have the cosmetology board from your home state send proof of your licensure and education directly to the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. From there, the Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences will determine whether or not you have to take an exam or complete additional training.
IA State Board of Cosmetology Contact Information
Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences
Lucas State Office Building, 5th Floor
321 E. 12th Street Des Moines, IA
50319-0075
Phone Number: 515-281-0254
Fax Number: 515-281-3121
The Iowa State Board of Cosmetology can help you with any additional questions you may have about the licensing process.