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 onlineHow to get your instructor license by mail
School graduates
- After you pass the exams, complete a Cosmetology, Hair Design, Barber, Manicurist, Esthetician, Master Esthetician, or Instructor License Renewal, Reinstatement, Out-of-Country, 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, Master Esthetician, or Instructor License Renewal, Reinstatement, Out-of-Country, 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.
Email updates
Subscribe to email updates to get the latest rule changes, licensing updates, and board notices by email.
Questions? Need help?
- Email us: DOLCosmo@dol.wa.gov
- Call us: 360.664.6626
