COSMETOLOGIST-HAIRSTYLIST License in New Jersey
Quick Answer
To become a licensed cosmetologist-hairstylist in New Jersey, you must complete approved coursework and pass a third-party exam. CE is required for renewal. Estimated costs are approximately $225.
- Education Required
- 1200 hours
- Exam
- New Jersey Cosmetology Exam (NIC)
- Total Cost
- $225 (est.)
- Timeline
- 7-12 months
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
COSMETOLOGIST-HAIRSTYLIST license in New Jersey
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $50
- Exam Fee
- $75
- Renewal Fee
- $50
- Total Estimated Cost
- $225
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your COSMETOLOGIST-HAIRSTYLIST license in New Jersey. 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 New Jersey licensing board.
COSMETOLOGIST-HAIRSTYLIST Salary in New Jersey
Entry Level
$31,470
Median
$44,110
Experienced
$101,300
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-HAIRSTYLIST in New Jersey.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — New Jersey Cosmetology Exam (NIC)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$50.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 7-12 months.
COSMETOLOGIST-HAIRSTYLIST Licensing in New Jersey: What to Know
New Jersey titles the license 'Cosmetologist-Hairstylist' and requires specific coursework and a third-party exam. CE is required for renewal, and no criminal record prohibitions exist. The Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling under the Division of Consumer Affairs oversees licensing. New Jersey's proximity to New York City and Philadelphia creates a large market. The state has a relatively low hour requirement of approximately 1,200 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a COSMETOLOGIST-HAIRSTYLIST license cost in New Jersey?
- The estimated total cost is $225, including application fees, exam fees ($75), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a COSMETOLOGIST-HAIRSTYLIST license in New Jersey?
- The process typically takes 7-12 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a COSMETOLOGIST-HAIRSTYLIST license in New Jersey?
- You need to pass the New Jersey Cosmetology Exam (NIC). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare COSMETOLOGIST-HAIRSTYLIST requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.