A career in hair design can be very rewarding. The ability to use your creativity to help people look and feel their best is a great feeling. In Washington DC, there are many opportunities for hairstylists to work in a variety of settings. There are salons, spas, hotels, and even some political offices that all need the services of a skilled hair designer.
The demand for hair designers is always high, so finding a job should not be difficult. The pay can be very good, especially in Washington DC where the cost of living is relatively high. Hairstylists in Washington DC also have the opportunity to work with a variety of people from all walks of life.
This site contains all kinds of information to help you learn about this profession, and we can also help you find a hair school near you.
Hair Schools in Washington DC
State Requirements for Hairstylist Licensing in Washington DC
For new hairstylists in Washington DC you have two options for getting your license. One is through an accredited cosmetology program. The other is by doing an apprenticeship.
The classroom route will last a year to 18 months, and you’ll need to complete 1,500 hours of coursework on topics such as:
- D.C. laws and regulations
- Sanitation
- Shampooing
- Scalp treatments
- Chemical straightening
- Personal hygiene
- Ethics
- Sales
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Bacteriology
- Pathology
- Chemistry
- Electricity
If you choose to go the apprenticeship route, you’ll need to complete 2,000 hours under the supervision of a licensed hairdresser in less than 24 months.
Once you complete your course or apprenticeship you’ll have six months to apply for your cosmetology license and sign up for the theory and practical exams. This will also include fees for your license fee ($110), an application fee ($65), and an exam fee ($55). You can find more information on the licensing website.
Once you pass both exams, you will have met all of Washington DC’s requirements.
If you’ve previously earned a license and worked as a hairdresser, you can apply for a license by reciprocity if your state has equivalent or greater requirements for licensure.
How Much Do Washington DC Hair Schools Cost?
The cost of cosmetology schools in Washington DC can vary depending on the type of program and the length of training. The average cost of a hairstylist program is around $14,000, but some programs may be as low as $9,000 or as high as $19,000. There are also a number of financial aid options available to help offset the cost of tuition. With a little planning, you can find an affordable option that meets your needs.
Required Skills and Classes
A cosmetology school will provide you with the skills and training necessary to pursue a career in the beauty industry. In most States, you’ll need to complete a certain number of hours of instruction in order to be eligible for licensure. The specific classes you’ll take will vary from school to school, but they typically include topics such as haircare, skincare, nail care, and makeup application. You’ll also learn about color theory, sanitation and sterilization, anatomy and physiology, and customer service.
In addition to classroom instruction, you’ll also get plenty of practice behind the chair. By the time you graduate from cosmetology school, you’ll be fully prepared to start your career in the beauty industry in Washington DC.
State Licensing Exam
The cosmetology licensing exam in Washington DC consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam is 90 minutes long and covers topics such as sanitation, bacteria control, hair care, chemical services, and salon management. The practical exam requires candidates to demonstrate their skills in hair cutting, hair styling, and nail care. Candidates must complete both parts of the exam within one year of completing their cosmetology program.
To prepare for the written portion of the licensing exam, candidates should review their coursework and study materials on the topics covered. For the practical exam, candidates should practice performing the required services on friends or family members. It is also important to make sure that all equipment and supplies are in good working condition.
Candidates who pass the licensing exam will be issued a cosmetology license by the DC Board.
How Much Do Hairstylists Make in Washington DC?
Hairstylists in the Washington DC area make more money on average than any state in the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for a hairstylist in Washington DC is $72,530. The average hourly pay for hairstylists is $34.87.
Does Washington DC Have Continuing Education Requirements for Hairstylists?
Hairstylists in Washington DC are required to submit a license renewal application every two years. Along with that form, they will need to show proof of completion of six hours of continuing education credits and pay a $110 renewal fee.
Contact Information for Licensing Board
Hairstylist and cosmetologist licenses in Washington DC are managed by the DC Board of Barber and Cosmetology, which works under the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. licenses are under the supervision of the Washington DC Board of Cosmetology. For the latest information or specific questions on licensing or renewals, you can reach them using the information below..
Website: DC Board of Barber and Cosmetology
Phone: (202) 442-4320
