Cosmetologist License: California vs New York
Thinking about getting your cosmetologist license? Here's how California and New York compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.
| Requirement | California | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Education Hours | 1600 hours | 1000 hours |
| Exam | California Cosmetology Exam | New York Cosmetology Exam |
| Application Fee | $50 | $40 |
| Exam Fee | $75 | $15 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $8,000 - $22,000 | $6,000 - $18,000 |
| Renewal Period | Every 2 years | Every 4 years |
| CE Hours | 0 hours | 4 hours |
| Renewal Fee | $50 | $40 |
Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?
Lower cost: New York is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $6,000-$18,000 compared to $8,000-$22,000.
Fewer education hours: New York requires 1000 hours of pre-license education, compared to 1600 hours in California.