California Hair Braiding Schools and Requirements

In California, hair braiders and wig artists don't need a license or any formal training to practice. However, they must be careful not to perform other hairstyling and cosmetology work—including shampooing!

That said, there are a couple of licenses that may interest you if you want to expand your business to include other hair or beauty treatments. Browse our directory of hair braiding schools in California, or skip ahead to learn about the state's hair braiding licensing requirements and job outlook.

What Can Hair Braiders in California Do?

California hair braiders can work directly on natural hair to braid, twist, weave, and practice other relevant treatments. But, since the state doesn't require hair braiding school, these professionals can't cut, shampoo, or use chemicals, like dye or straightening agents, on the hair. Basically, the natural hair can't be changed in any way, even to clean it up.

Wig artists and fitters also don't need a license, so you can perform those services.

Consider a California cosmetology or hairdressing license to offer a full range of hair services.

Why Should a California Hair Braider Consider a Cosmetology License?

You need a cosmetology license to perform all types of hair treatments in California, in addition to braiding. Cosmetologists can cut, style, dye, bleach, chemically straighten and curl... you name the hair treatment, they can probably do it! Cosmetologists can also provide basic skincare, makeup, and nail services. If you opt for this route, you could become a one-person salon!

You'd have to be in school for 1,000 course hours to get a cosmetology license. If you don't have the time but want to expand your services—to a lesser degree—a hair license may be better if you want to be a California hair braider and then some.

READ MORE: Learn About California Cosmetology School

Why Should a California Hair Braider Consider a Hairstylist License?

Future hair braiders in California may want to go to hair school to provide common hair services after completing a short program. While they can't dye or chemically straighten or curl hair, they can perform wet and dry cutting, shampooing and other cleansing, and offer design and arranging beyond braids, weaves, etc.

The program lasts only 600 hours!

READ MORE: Learn About California Hair School

If you're unsure about spending time and money on any program, you could consider working in hair braiding for a while, then reconsider a California hair or cosmetology school.

California Hair Braider Salary

ZipRecruiter finds that, as of November 2023, hair braiders in California average $41,440 per year. This is similar to the national average.

The state's hairstylists and cosmetologists earn about the same, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. California hair pros in these fields average $45,020 as of 2022.

Your pay could depend on years of experience, location, type of workplace, and especially word of mouth getting you more clients. The best way to determine how much you could expect is to talk to established hair braiders in California.

Contact the California State Board of Cosmetology