HowToGetLicensed

Cosmetologist License: California vs Georgia

Thinking about getting your cosmetologist license? Here's how California and Georgia compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California Georgia
Education Hours 1000 hours 1500 hours
Exam California Cosmetology Written Exam Georgia Cosmetology Exam
Application Fee $50 $35
Exam Fee $75 $80
Total Estimated Cost $10,000 - $20,000 $6,000 - $17,000
Renewal Period Every 2 years Every 2 years
CE Hours 0 hours 5 hours
Renewal Fee $50 $35

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: Georgia is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $6,000-$17,000 compared to $10,000-$20,000.

Fewer education hours: California requires 1000 hours of pre-license education, compared to 1500 hours in Georgia.

Full State Guides

Compare cosmetologist requirements across all 50 states →