Anyone wishing to obtain employment in the practice of cosmetology, hair styling and similar areas is required to obtain the proper license in the State of New Jersey through the New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology & Hairstyling. The Board, which is established under the Division of Consumer Affairs, handles all aspects of cosmetology licensing, including application procedures, examinations requirements and rules of professional conduct. Applicants for a Cosmetologist-Hairstylist license must first complete a certain number of training hours and then pass the Board administered exam. Qualifying candidates from other states may obtain their license by applying for licensure by endorsement. Students enrolled at Board-approved schools of cosmetology may apply for and obtain a Student License, which enables them to practice under certain conditions.

Obtaining a license

General

In order to earn a license as a Cosmetologist-Hairstylist from the Board, students must complete the training hours set forth below. The educational requirements must be completed at an approved institution of cosmetology. Then, applicants must pass the state cosmetology board exam by filing an application to sit for the test and obtain the Cosmetologist-Hairstylist license.

Training

• Cosmetologist - Hairstylist License: 1200 hours (1000 hours vocational school)
• Beautician License: 1100 hours
• Barber License: 900 hours
• Esthetician License: 600 hours
• Nail Technician License: 300 hours
• Electrologist License: 600 hours
• Permanent Makeup License: 100 hours (through the New Jersey Department of Health)
• Cosmetology Instructor License: Cosmetology License for at least six months plus 500 hours and 30 hours junior instruction
• Massage Therapist License: 500 hours (though Board of Massage & Bodywork Therapy)

Beautician v. Cosmetologist-Hairstylist license

There is a distinction between the Beautician and Cosmetologist-Hairstylist licenses. Each credential is allowed to practice beauty culture services as defined by the Board. However, a Cosmetologist-Hairstylist is also allowed to engage in shaving or trimming of facial hair and hair weaving, whereas a Beautician license does not cover these practices.

Examinations

Upon achieving of the minimum training hours, candidates for a Cosmetologist-Hairstylist license must fill out the Application for Authorization to Sit for the Examination and for Licensure. The application must include proper processing fees, including the $50 filing fee and fees for the first licensing cycle. The initial licensing fees are $30 or $60, based upon shich renewal period the application is submitted. Once the application is approved by the Board, Candidates may sit for the exam. After successfully passing the test, applicants will receive their Cosmetologist-Hairstylist license.

License by Endorsement

Individuals with a valid, out-of-state license in cosmetology related practices may qualify to obtain their Cosmetologist-Hairstylist credentials in New Jersey via the Licensure by Endorsement process. In order to be eligible, the home state must have training and exam requirements similar to those established by the Board. Candidates must submit an out-of-state application, including verification from the state agency that regulates the existing license. They must also pass the examination administered by the Board.

Maintaining a license

Renewal and continuing education requirements

In order to maintain a valid license as a Cosmetologist-Hairstylist in the State of New Jersey, a license holder must submit a renewal application every two years, in even-numbered years. All licensees are required to submit the proper renewal application and a $60 processing fee. There are currently no continuing education requirements for licensees, though certain specialties do mandate some coursework. Cosmetologist-Hairstylist licensees whose credentials have been expired for more than seven years must take a 250 refresher course and re-take the Board examination.

Disciplinary actions

All matters involving Cosmetologist-Hairstylist license holder misconduct are handled by the Board, including complaints from consumers and violations of professional ethics rules. Penalties may include license suspension, probation or revocation, depending on the nature of the violation. The most common infractions are failure to provide proper sanitary conditions, improper display of license or engaging in the practice of cosmetology without the proper credentials.

Student Permit

Once the Board has accepted a candidate’s application to take the examination, a permit to practice as a Cosmetologist-Hairstylist may be issued to those who qualify. The student must be registered at an approved cosmetology program or enrolled in a high school program. The Student Permit requires the practitioner to work under certain conditions with oversight by a licensed Cosmetologist-Hairstylist.