Barbers and Cosmetologists - Cosmetologist License in Montana
Quick Answer
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Montana, you must complete approved training and pass a third-party exam. CE is required for renewal. The Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists oversees licensing. Estimated costs are approximately $300.
- Education Required
- 1500 hours
- Exam
- Montana Cosmetology Exam (NIC)
- Total Cost
- $300 (est.)
- Timeline
- 9-14 months
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Barbers and Cosmetologists - Cosmetologist license in Montana
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $75
- Exam Fee
- $100
- Renewal Fee
- $75
- Total Estimated Cost
- $300
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Barbers and Cosmetologists - Cosmetologist license in Montana. 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 Montana licensing board.
Barbers and Cosmetologists - Cosmetologist Salary in Montana
Entry Level
$22,350
Median
$38,230
Experienced
$79,870
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Barbers and Cosmetologists - Cosmetologist in Montana.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — Montana Cosmetology Exam (NIC)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$75.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 9-14 months.
Barbers and Cosmetologists - Cosmetologist Licensing in Montana: What to Know
Montana titles the license 'Barbers and Cosmetologists - Cosmetologist.' CE is required for renewal, and no criminal record prohibitions exist. The Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists oversees licensing. Montana's vast rural geography limits school options to primarily Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls. The state's growing tourism industry, particularly in areas near Glacier and Yellowstone national parks, creates seasonal demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Barbers and Cosmetologists - Cosmetologist license cost in Montana?
- The estimated total cost is $300, including application fees, exam fees ($100), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Barbers and Cosmetologists - Cosmetologist license in Montana?
- The process typically takes 9-14 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Barbers and Cosmetologists - Cosmetologist license in Montana?
- You need to pass the Montana Cosmetology Exam (NIC). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Barbers and Cosmetologists - Cosmetologist requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.