In order to legally practice cosmetology and similar fields in the State of Massachusetts, candidates must first obtain a license from the Board of Registration of Cosmetologists, which falls under the Office of Consumer Affairs & Business Regulation. This agency governs the application requirements, testing, the issuance of licenses and licensee professional conduct. Applicants who complete minimal educational requirements and pass the Board’s examination procedures are eligible to obtain their cosmetology license. In addition, properly licensed candidates from other states may qualify for a license transfer. To honor active members of the military, the Board has established reduced fees for applications.

Obtaining a license

General

Applicants seeking their cosmetology license must complete the minimum number of training hours at an accredited institution designated by the Board, as indicated by the schedule below. Candidates must then pass both written and practical examinations before applying to obtain the license.

Training

• Cosmetologist License: 1000 hours
• Nail Technician License: 100 hours
• Esthetician License: 300 hours
• Massage Therapist License: 650 hours

Examinations

Applicants for a license in cosmetology must pass both written and practical examinations, which must be completed within 24 months of each other.

• Practical exam: This section of the test is administered first. Candidates are given a list of cosmetology tasks to perform and are graded by proctors observing their skills.
• Written exam: The written portion of the test is a multiple choice format with 75 questions, and candidates are allowed two hours to complete it. Questions cover such topics as equipment sanitation; hair cutting, waving and styling; manicure services; and, facials.

Candidates from other states

The Board does not accept licensure by endorsement or reciprocity from any other state, but has enacted a  transfer procedure whereby applicants can obtain their license to practice cosmetology in Massachusetts. In order to transfer a valid and current license from another state, candidates will have to successfully complete the Board’s written and practical exams and pay the fees for transfer, testing and license issuance.

Maintaining a license

Renewal and continuing education requirements

First year licensees must renew their license one year after passing the exam. Subsequently, licenses are to be renewed in Massachusetts every two years by the licensee’s birth date. A notice to renew license is sent to candidates approximately six weeks before the deadline; however, it is the licensee’s responsibility to complete the renewal process even if a notice is not received. Licensees must complete the renewal application and submit payment in the amount of $68.

The Board does not require licensees to complete a minimum required continuing education units, but suggests that they consider taking some coursework to stay current in the cosmetology industry.

Disciplinary actions

The Board has enacted regulations related to prohibited practices, which may include, but are not limited to engaging in cosmetology without the proper license, services which fall under the practice of medicine, and failing to maintain proper sanitary standards. Disciplinary actions may include license suspension, licensee probation and license revocation, among others.

Reduced license fees for active military

In July 2014, Boart announced that fees for an initial cosmetology license would be waived for active members of the military under the VALOR Act. To qualify, candidates must apply online and identify as a service member, military spouse or veteran, and then download the proper paperwork.