School graduate: Cosmetology instructor

Licensing requirements

To be licensed as an instructor, you must:

  • graduate from a school approved and licensed by the Department of Licensing, with the minimum required 500 classroom hours.
  • have a current cosmetology, barber, manicure and/or esthetics license in Washington State.
  • pass the state-approved National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) written and performance examinations.

How to get your license

Submit the following:

  • a completed Adobe PDF iconapplication (no fee).
  • proof you have passed the state-approved NIC national written and practical examinations.

Mail your application and documents to:

  • Cosmetology Program
    Department of Licensing
    PO Box 9048
    Olympia, WA 98507

Where can I find information about the examinations?

Please see Frequently asked questionse.

Post your license

Your license must be posted at your work station.