How much does a Esthetician license cost in California?

The estimated total cost is $165, including application fees, and education costs.

How long does it take to get a Esthetician license in California?

The process typically takes 4-8 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.

What exam do I need for a Esthetician license in California?

You need to pass the PSI Esthetics Examination. N/A

Esthetician License in California

California esthetician licensure requires completing an approved skin care course, passing the PSI exam, and paying a $115 initial fee (exam + license) with $50 biennial renewals.

Education Required: 600 hours
Exam: PSI Esthetics Examination
Total Cost: $165 (est.)
Timeline: 4-8 months
Renewal: Every Every 2 years

Requirements

Esthetician license in California

gold

Veterans Benefits

Expedited processing is available for military and spouses

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee: $115
Renewal Fee: $50
Total Estimated Cost: $165

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs~Board of Barbering and Cosmetology

Website 8009525210 Email

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Esthetician license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Application Fee

$115

Renewal Fee

$50

Total Estimated Cost

$165

Education / School Cost

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

Include first renewal fee ($50)

Application FeeEst.$115

Total Estimated Cost$115

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.

Esthetician Salary in California

Entry Level

$33,860

Median

$36,390

Experienced

$77,450

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Esthetician in California.

1

Submit Your Application

File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$115.
2

Receive Your License

Processing typically takes 4-8 months.

Esthetician Licensing in California: What to Know

California licenses estheticians through the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology under the Department of Consumer Affairs. The initial fee of $115 covers both the examination and licensing costs, with biennial renewal at $50. Applicants must be at least 17 years old, have completed the 10th grade, and have completed an approved esthetics course from a board-approved school (typically 600 hours). The PSI exam is offered Monday through Friday at various locations statewide, and the fee must be paid each time the exam is taken. California offers expedited processing for military members and spouses, with average application processing taking 4-6 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Esthetician license cost in California?: The estimated total cost is $165, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Esthetician license in California?: The process typically takes 4-8 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Esthetician license in California?: You need to pass the PSI Esthetics Examination. N/A