Cosmetologist, Natural Hairstylist, Esthetician, Nail Specialist, Waxing License in New York
Quick Answer
New York requires 600 hours of esthetics training and a state exam, with continuing education for renewal on a 4-year cycle through the NYS Department of State.
- Education Required
- 600 hours
- Exam
- New York State Esthetics Exam
- Timeline
- 4-8 months
- Renewal
- Every Every 4 years
Requirements
Cosmetologist, Natural Hairstylist, Esthetician, Nail Specialist, Waxing license in New York
Cosmetologist, Natural Hairstylist, Esthetician, Nail Specialist, Waxing Salary in New York
Entry Level
$32,050
Median
$45,770
Experienced
$77,260
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, Natural Hairstylist, Esthetician, Nail Specialist, Waxing in New York.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 3
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 4-8 months.
Cosmetologist, Natural Hairstylist, Esthetician, Nail Specialist, Waxing Licensing in New York: What to Know
New York licenses estheticians through the NYS Department of State, Division of Licensing Services. The COS data returned a combined listing for Cosmetologist, Natural Hairstylist, Esthetician, Nail Specialist, and Waxing, making it difficult to extract esthetician-specific data. New York requires 600 hours of approved esthetics training and a state examination. Continuing education is required for license renewal, and a physical examination may be necessary. New York uses a 4-year renewal cycle, which is longer than most states. The esthetics scope of practice in New York includes skin care, makeup, and waxing services.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Cosmetologist, Natural Hairstylist, Esthetician, Nail Specialist, Waxing license in New York?
- The process typically takes 4-8 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Cosmetologist, Natural Hairstylist, Esthetician, Nail Specialist, Waxing license in New York?
- You need to pass the New York State Esthetics Exam. N/A
Considering another state?
Compare Cosmetologist, Natural Hairstylist, Esthetician, Nail Specialist, Waxing requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.