If the information on this translated website is unclear, please contact us at 360.902.3900 for help in your language of choice.

How to renew your license: Cosmetologist, barber, manicurist, esthetician, hair design, or master esthetician

Temporary change to renewal requirements for cosmetology licensing

Learn more about a new law that helps cosmetology licensees affected by the COVID-19 pandemic

Things to know

  • License expires every 2 years.
  • You can renew 120 days before your license expires.
  • There will be a late fee if you don't renew before it expires.
  • If your license has been expired for more than 1 year, it's canceled and you must reapply.
  • We consider you unlicensed if your license expires or gets canceled. You can receive a fine for engaging in unlicensed activity.
  • We can only accept payments by mail with a check or money order or online with a debit or credit card. We can't accept payments over the phone.

Before you renew

  • Be ready to answer the legal background questions and provide explanations if needed.

What you'll need

Start renewal

Renew by mail

Reinstate your license

Online

  1. Log in or sign up to submit a reinstatement request.
  2. Pass the written and practical exams (third-party testing fees will apply).

Mail

  1. Submit a completed Cosmetology, Hair Design, Barber, Manicurist, Esthetician, or Master Esthetician License, Renewal, Reinstatement, or Reciprocity Application (English, 한국어, Español, and more). We'll contact you with exam scheduling information once we receive your completed application.
  2. Pass the written and practical exams (third-party testing fees will apply).

When will I get my license?

We won't mail your license unless you request a printed copy. Your license is available to print online.

If you renewed online

  • We'll process your request within 14 business days. It will be available to print online at any time.
  • Check your email for notifications about your license.
  • See how to self-print your license.

If you renewed by mail

  • We'll process your request within 45 business days and send a copy of your license to the email address listed on the application.
  • You can print your license online at any time. See how to self-print your license

Get a printed license by mail

  • To get a printed license when applying by mail, you must send the license print fee with your application.
  • To request a printed copy of your license, send us the following information:
    • Name
    • Mailing address
    • Email address
    • Phone number
    • License type
    • License number
    • Check or money order for the license print fee, payable to Department of Licensing
    • Mail to:

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

If you have a license in another state

We only renew Washington state licenses. To renew your license in another state, please contact the licensing board in that state for instructions. See the NIC website for a list of U.S. licensing boards.

Email updates

Subscribe to email updates to get the latest rule changes, licensing updates, and board notices by email.

Related information

Question? Need help?

Chatbot icon