Kentucky Hair School and Requirements

Unless you work under very specific circumstances, you need a cosmetology license to become a hairdresser in Kentucky. But, on the bright side, this means you get hair training and then some! Let's talk about what becoming a hairdresser in Kentucky looks like and how much you might earn as a working professional.

Browse our directory of hair design schools in Kentucky, or skip ahead to learn about the state's hair design licensing requirements and job outlook.

How to Become a Hair Designer in Kentucky

Your Kentucky cosmetology license would let you work as a hairdresser in the state. The state's cosmetology programs last 1,500 hours and cover hair, nails, skincare, and makeup.

The program focuses heavily on hair, as evidenced by almost half of the state's cosmetology exam being at least partly about hair care and treatments.

A cosmetology license comes with considerable benefits. For one, you can do more than one thing, which may make you more employable and expand the things you can get paid for. Secondly, you might find that you love makeup or nails just as much! And finally, you could have an easier time transferring your education to another state if you move.

READ MORE: Learn About Cosmetology School in Kentucky

The only exceptions to needing a license are:

• If you work in the military, medicine, funeral services, or another field where working on hair is a part of your job but not the bulk of it,
• If you work for the Department of Corrections or Department of Juvenile Justice,
• If you strictly perform hair braiding and no other hair services (e.g., cutting or dyeing).

Unlike some states, you need a cosmetology license to run a salon or to teach or demonstrate your skills for profit. In short, if you're getting paid and the primary thing you do is hair (or makeup or nails), you must have a Kentucky cosmetology license.

Kentucky Hairdresser Salary

As of 2022, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an average Kentucky cosmetologist and hairdresser salary of $28,440 annually. Barbers average $37,070. However, neither amount includes self-employed hair professionals.

A lot can affect how much you can make as a Kentucky hairdresser. Things such as where you live, the type of place you work, how many years you've worked, extra certifications you've earned, and more are all factors. The best way to find out how much you could expect to make is to speak with other hairdressers in the area you want to work in.

Contact the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology