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Cosmetology Schools in Alabama

Becoming a cosmetologist in Alabama is a fantastic career choice for a variety of reasons. For starters, the beauty industry is booming, and as a cosmetologist, you get to be right at the heart of it. Whether it’s hair, makeup, skincare, or nail services, you have the opportunity to work in a field that’s not just about looking good, but also about making people feel great. There’s a real sense of fulfillment that comes from helping clients boost their confidence and self-esteem.

Another great thing about being a cosmetologist in Alabama is the opportunity for growth. The beauty industry is always evolving, with new trends and technologies emerging all the time. This means you’re constantly learning and growing professionally. Whether it’s mastering the latest hair coloring techniques or learning about new skincare technologies, there’s always something new to explore. And if you’re someone who loves to keep learning and growing, this is the place to be.

Cosmetology Schools in Alabama

State Requirements for Cosmetology Licensing in Alabama

To become a licensed cosmetologist in Alabama, there are several important steps and requirements you need to fulfill:

  1. Education Requirements: Firstly, you must complete a cosmetology curriculum of no fewer than 1,500 training hours. During this training, you will cover essential topics such as sanitation, skin care, hair cutting, and styling. These hours can be spent in a combination of classroom learning, working with mannequin heads, and real client interactions.
  2. Examination: After completing your education, you must apply to take the written and practical exams within 120 days of finishing your education or apprenticeship. The exams test your knowledge and practical skills in cosmetology. The fees for these exams are $100 for the written test and $120 for the practical test. If you fail the exam three times, the Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering may require you to complete additional training hours.
  3. Licensing Fees: The fee for a new license is $40, and for apprentices, it’s $75. In the case of apprenticeship, you can complete 3,000 hours of apprenticeship as an alternative to the 1,500 hours of cosmetology training.
  4. License Renewal: Cosmetology licenses in Alabama need to be renewed every odd-numbered year during your birth month. The cost for renewing a personal license is $80. If the renewal is postmarked after the last day of your birth month, a late fee of $50 is applied.
  5. Apprenticeship Hours Requirements: If you opt for an apprenticeship, you must complete 3,000 hours within 3 years.
  6. Reciprocity: If you are licensed in another state and want to transfer your license to Alabama, you must first have certification from your current state sent directly to the Alabama Board. There is a minimum $100 fee for this service, and you might be required to take exams as part of the reciprocity process.
  7. Additional Information: For changing your name or address on your license or if your license is lost or stolen, there are specific procedures and forms to follow, which you can find on the Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering’s website.

To take the exams – you must be at least 16 years old, have a 10th-grade education, and have completed a minimum of 1500 hours in cosmetology school or 3000 hours as an apprentice.

How Much Do Alabama Cosmetology Programs Cost?

There are many schools to choose from in Alabama, with public and private institutions offering programs. Tuition can range anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000. The average time it takes to complete a cosmetology program is around a year. Apprenticeships generally take two years or longer.

Students should research their options and apply for any financial aid they may be eligible for.

In addition to tuition costs, students can expect to pay fees for books, supplies, and sometimes uniforms. Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships.

Required Skills and Classes

Skills that you will learn in beauty school include hair cutting and styling, color theory, scalp massage, and more. The coursework must cover the following topics:

  • Safety
  • Sanitation
  • Bacteriology
  • Chemistry
  • Anatomy
  • Physiology
  • Histology
  • Electricity
  • Facial treatments
  • Makeup
  • Wigs and hairpieces
  • Manicuring
  • Pedicuring

State Licensing Exams

To become a licensed cosmetologist in Alabama, you’ll need to go complete the state’s cosmetology exam which includes paying exam fees, and successfully passing both the written and practical exams. The process includes:

  1. Exam Fees: The fees for the exams are $75 for the written exam and $130 for the practical exam.
  2. Scheduling the Exam: After completing your training, you must apply for and schedule your exam. This can be done through PSI after the Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (ABOCB) has approved your application. You have 2 years to complete both the written and practical exams from the date you completed your program.
  3. The Exams: The theory exam is a 90-minute written test consisting of 110 multiple-choice questions, of which 100 are scored. The practical exam, on the other hand, is a hands-on test lasting 2 to 3 hours where you will need to bring all necessary supplies.
  4. Passing Score and Retaking Exams: To pass, you need a minimum score of 70%. If you fail, you can retake the exam, but you’ll need to pay the examination fee again. Remember, you have a total of 3 attempts for each exam (written and practical), all within a 2-year period.
  5. On Examination Day: Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time and bring the necessary identification and admission letters.

How Much Do Cosmetologists Get Paid in Alabama?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2021 report, cosmetologists in Alabama make an average median wage of $23,890 annually. The average median hourly wage is $11.49.

Does Alabama Have Continuing Education Requirements for Cosmetologists?

In short, no. After you pass the exam, you will be issued an Alabama cosmetology license. The license must be renewed every two years, but there are no continuing education requirements to maintain your cosmetology license.

However, these courses can lead to more opportunities, such as advancing to a salon manager or educator position. Salon owners may also prefer hiring cosmetologists with continuing education credits because they know these professionals are interested in learning new techniques and improving their skills.

Contact Information for Licensing Board

Visit the Alabama Board of Cosmetology website or contact them directly to learn more about licensing.

Website: https://www.aboc.alabama.gov
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (334) 242-1918