Cosmetology Schools in Montana
Are you considering going to cosmetology school in Montana? Now may be the perfect time! The number of jobs in the state is growing at more than double the national projection, and the state's median cosmetology pay is higher than the national median!
Want to learn more about how to become a cosmetologist in Montana?
Browse our directory of cosmetology schools in Montana, or skip ahead to learn about the state's cosmetology licensing requirements and job outlook.
Browse All Cosmetology Schools in Montana
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You must attend a school that meets any licensure requirements as defined by your state. Most states require that you graduate from an accredited or state-approved school.
Related Beauty Careers
Not sure this is the right fit for you? Learn more about other career options in the beauty industry. Related specializations include:
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Montana
- Cosmetology School Hours: 1500
- Renewal Years: 2
- Continuing Education Requirements:0
- Median Cosmetologist Salary (2024): $38,230
- Projected Job Growth (2022 – 2032): 16%
You need to complete a cosmetology program, pass tests, and meet specific demographic requirements in order to become a cosmetologist in Montana.
What to Expect from a Cosmetology Program in Montana
Time to Complete a Cosmetology Program in Montana
Cosmetologists in Montana are trained in hairdressing, manicuring esthetics, and beauty culture. The state mandates that schools cover everything you can expect on your licensure exam to give you the best chance of passing on your first try.
In fact, Montana has a required curriculum that all approved schools must follow. While the nitty-gritty of each program differs—and those differences are worth paying attention to when picking the best cosmetology school for you!—they must all, at a minimum, teach the following:
Schools must have no more than 25 students per teacher, and instructors use a combination of theory and hands-on training to help you gain the skills you need in your cosmetology career.
Can I Become a Cosmetologist in Montana Through an Apprenticeship?
Yes, you can become a cosmetologist through an apprenticeship in Montana! On top of that, you are paid while you learn your new craft. Apprentices must complete a minimum of 2000 hours; however, the average number of hours across all apprenticeship types is 8000.
However, this licensure route was approved in 2025; as of 2026, there aren't very many cosmetology apprenticeship sponsors available. While it wouldn't hurt to look for cosmetology apprenticeship opportunities, you may have better luck going the traditional training route for now.
How to Get Your Cosmetology License in Montana
To get your cosmetology license in Montana, you need to meet several qualifications. You must:
"Good moral character" has to do with things like having a criminal record. However, having a record doesn't mean you absolutely can't get your license! You need to provide additional information, including a description of the events, records of proceedings and judgements, and any other relevant information. The Board will review your information and make the call.
You may submit your licensure application, pay your fee, and provide other information on the state's Department of Labor and Industry Citizen Portal.
The Board will not look at your licensure application until after you have paid the $80 fee, so be sure to get that done! If you have applied for your license but have not passed your tests yet, the department can approve you to register for your exams.
Montana Cosmetology Exams
Montana has partnered with Prov to administer the National Interstate Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) theory (written) and practical (hands-on) exams. Once you have completed 90% of your educational requirements, you can apply to undergo your cosmetology tests on Prov's website, by phone, or via email. After your application is approved, you schedule your exams. The practical exam costs $179, and the written test is $80.
If you have a disability and need accommodations, you can fill out ADA Forms to request them. Be sure to do this well ahead of time.
The practical cosmetology exam comprises the core domain, eyebrow hair removal, and manicure and polish application sections. You need to bring your own kit, which must include a full-sized mannequin head. The core domain test focuses on hair treatments. You simulate working with more than one client, with a setup period at the beginning and in the middle. The exam portions break down as follows:
The hair removal of the eyebrows portion includes tweezing and simulated use of soft wax. You'll show how you prep, apply, and remove soft wax and then tweeze three hairs from the eyebrow you just waxed. You must also correctly clean your workspace.
You'll have 20 minutes to complete the manicure and polish application section of the cosmetology exam. This involves showing that your supplies are clean, performing two types of hand massage, shaping and cleansing the nails, preparing the cuticle, and applying red nail polish. You'll also remove the polish and clean up your workstation.
The NIC practical exam can only be taken remotely, using a MAC, PC, or compatible Chromebook. iPads and tablets won't work. You need to set up your clean, well-lit workspace before your test time. You need front and side camera views, and all supplies must be visible. Even though you're taking the exam at a remote location, you need to show your ID to your proctor, who will be watching you in real time.
The written test can be taken remotely or at a testing center. It runs for 90 minutes and includes 110 questions, 100 of which are scored. Questions break down into the following sections:
You need to score at least 75% on your cosmetology exams, and you'll receive your scores via email no more than three business days after the test. If you don't pass, you may reapply and pay the fee to retake it. Though you can take the test as many times as you want, you must wait 60 days after your third test—and between any subsequent tests—before you can try again.
Montana Cosmetology Licensure Reciprocity
You can't directly transfer your license from any other state to Montana, as the state doesn't have any reciprocity agreements. However, if you meet the state's age, education, and background requirements, have completed 1500 training or 3000 work hours, and have passed the relevant NIC exams, you may be able to apply for licensure by credentialing. This type of license is $80.
Cosmetology Specialties in Montana
If you want to focus on something a bit narrower than cosmetology but want to have a beauty career, you might want to consider one of the other licenses Montana offers! These include:
Montana doesn't require natural hair braiders to have licenses, so long as they only provide braiding services and not haircuts or chemical treatments.
Cosmetology Licensure Renewal in Montana
License renewal period
Continuing education required
You need to renew your cosmetology license between January 2 and March 1 every other year. If you don't meet that deadline. It costs $80 to renew your license, and you need to submit an application form and make sure you still meet all certification requirements.
If you miss the deadline, you can renew your license online until April 15. It's considered lapsed until you do so.
No continuing education coursework is required—though it's always a good idea to keep learning new skills!
Cosmetologist Salary and Projected Job Growth in Montana
Median Cosmetology Pay in Montana