Esthetician License in North Carolina
Quick Answer
North Carolina requires 600 hours of esthetics training and passing a state exam through the NC State Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners.
- Education Required
- 600 hours
- Exam
- North Carolina State Board Esthetics Exam
- Timeline
- 4-8 months
- Renewal
- Every Every 3 years
Requirements
Esthetician license in North Carolina
Esthetician Salary in North Carolina
Entry Level
$26,980
Median
$46,120
Experienced
$91,520
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 North Carolina.
- 1
Pass the Required Exam
State exam required — North Carolina State Board Esthetics Exam
- 2
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 3
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 4-8 months.
Esthetician Licensing in North Carolina: What to Know
North Carolina licenses estheticians through the NC State Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners. The COS data provides only a scope-of-practice description without specific fees or detailed requirements. North Carolina requires 600 hours of approved esthetics training and passing a state examination. The scope of practice includes facials, waxing, and other skin care treatments, as well as pathways into paramedical esthetics careers in the medical community and cosmetology marketing or beauty consulting. North Carolina also offers an Esthetician Teacher license for those interested in instructor careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Esthetician license in North Carolina?
- The process typically takes 4-8 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Esthetician license in North Carolina?
- You need to pass the North Carolina State Board Esthetics Exam. State exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Esthetician requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.