Cosmetologist License in Delaware
Quick Answer
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Delaware, you must complete approved training and pass a third-party exam. Delaware does NOT require CE for renewal. A temporary license is available for military spouses. Specific conviction types are prohibited. Estimated costs are approximately $300.
- Education Required
- 1500 hours
- Exam
- Delaware Cosmetology Exam (NIC)
- Total Cost
- $300 (est.)
- Timeline
- 9-14 months
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Cosmetologist license in Delaware
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $86
- Exam Fee
- $100
- Renewal Fee
- $86
- Total Estimated Cost
- $300
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Cosmetologist license in Delaware. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Delaware licensing board.
Cosmetologist Salary in Delaware
Entry Level
$27,560
Median
$30,980
Experienced
$87,300
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Cosmetologist in Delaware.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Specific type of conviction prohibited
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — Delaware Cosmetology Exam (NIC)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$86.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 9-14 months.
Cosmetologist Licensing in Delaware: What to Know
Delaware requires a degree and a third-party exam for cosmetology licensing. Specific types of convictions are prohibited. No CE is required for renewal, making Delaware more lenient than many states. A temporary license is available for military spouses. The Division of Professional Regulation under the Board of Cosmetology and Barbering oversees licensing. Delaware's beach resort communities (Rehoboth, Bethany) create seasonal demand for cosmetology services.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Cosmetologist license cost in Delaware?
- The estimated total cost is $300, including application fees, exam fees ($100), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Cosmetologist license in Delaware?
- The process typically takes 9-14 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Cosmetologist license in Delaware?
- You need to pass the Delaware Cosmetology Exam (NIC). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Cosmetologist requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.