How to get your license: Cosmetology instructor

Licensing requirements

School graduates

You must:

Have a current Washington cosmetology, barber, manicurist, esthetician, hair design, or master esthetician license before enrolling in an instructor program.
Graduate from a school we license with the 500 minimum required hours.
Pass the state-approved practical and written examinations administered by D.L. Roope. For more details about the exams, visit dlroope.com

Reciprocity applicants

You must:

Have a current Washington cosmetology, barber, manicurist, esthetician, hair design, or master esthetician license before applying for an instructor license.
Have an active instructor license in good standing in another jurisdiction .

How to get your instructor license online

Create or use your SAW account to apply and pay your fees online.

Apply online

How to get your instructor license by mail

School graduates

After you pass the exams, complete a Cosmetology, Hair Design, Barber, Manicurist, Esthetician, or Master Esthetician License, Renewal, Reinstatement, or Reciprocity Application (English, Español, Русский, and more)
Mail your completed application, supporting documents and a check or money order (payable to Department of Licensing) for the fee to the address below.

Reciprocity applicants

Complete a Cosmetology, Hair Design, Barber, Manicurist, Esthetician, or Master Esthetician License, Renewal, Reinstatement, or Reciprocity Application (English, Español, Русский, and more)
Provide proof you've passed the approved exam(s).
Provide proof you have an active license in good standing in another jurisdiction
Mail your completed application, any supporting documents, and a check or money order (payable to Department of Licensing) for the fee to:

Cosmetology Program
Department of Licensing
PO Box 3856
Seattle, WA 98124-3856

If you apply for a WA license, it won’t affect your license in another state.

For veterans, military personnel, and partners

Your military experience or training might help you meet licensing requirements. You may also be able to get a temporary license if you're moving here with a current license from another state. For more information visit military assistance.

If you're a U.S. veteran, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement of your fees. For more information, visit Get paid back for test fees.