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

We have a new online service for managing professional and business licenses. Learn how to set up account access and manage your license. If you need help with the new service, please contact your professional licensing program.

We expect a processing delay for mailed applications and renewals. Renew or apply online for faster processing of your license. Thank you for your patience and we apologize for any inconvenience.

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.

Before you renew

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

What you'll need

Your license number
Visa, MasterCard, or American Express credit or debit card to pay renewal fee

Start renewal

Want to renew by mail?

Follow the instructions in your renewal letter.
No renewal letter? Submit the appropriate fees with a completed Cosmetology, Hair Design, Barber, Manicurist, Esthetician, or Master Esthetician License, Renewal, Reinstatement, or Reciprocity Application (English, Español, Русский, and more) (check the “Renewal,” “Late renewal,” or “Reinstatement” box as needed).

Want to reinstate your license?

If your license has been expired for more than 1 year, you must reapply for a license. To reapply, submit a completed Cosmetology, Hair Design, Barber, Manicurist, Esthetician, or Master Esthetician License, Renewal, Reinstatement, or Reciprocity Application (English, Español, Русский, and more).

When will I get my license?

Request a copy online: print any time.
Request a copy by mail: within 45 days.

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.