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Hair Schools in California

If you’re looking for a career that is both creative and rewarding, then becoming a hairstylist in California may be the perfect choice for you. As a hairstylist, you’ll have the opportunity to use your creativity to make your clients look and feel their best. You’ll also be able to build strong relationships with your clients and receive a lot of satisfaction from helping them feel good about themselves.

Being a hairstylist in California offers many great benefits, including the ability to work flexible hours, set your own rates, and choose your own work schedule. Plus, with hair schools located all across the state, it’s easy to get the training you need to start your new career. So if you’re looking for a fulfilling career that offers both creativity and rewards, consider becoming a hairstylist in California.

Read on to learn more about the requirements of earning a hair styling license in California and check out our list of hair design school programs and find one that might be the right fit for you!

Hair Schools in California ­­

What are the state requirements for hairstylists in California?

You’ll need a significant amount of education to become a licensed hairstylist in California. The California Board of Barbering & Cosmetology requires candidates to complete 1,500 hours of education or 3,200 hours of apprenticeship to earn their license.

To be licensed to cut hair in California you’ll need to meet the 1,500 hours of education required by the California Department of Health. There are a number of hair schools and licensed beauty education providers throughout the state that can help you earn your license.

Anyone entering a cosmetology program such as hair design that wants to take the licensing exam must meet some basic requirements such as:

  • Be at least 17 years old
  • Complete at least tenth grade in California or the educational equivalent
  • Complete an accredited course, meet the apprenticeship hour requirements, or have practiced in another state for an equivalent amount of time

The Board has the option to deny licenses to individuals who have been convicted of a crime, been guilty of fraud, caused injury, or other acts which they deem worthy of license suspension or revocation.

How Much Do Hair Schools Cost in California?

Hair schools in California tend to be more expensive than many states with hair design programs and cosmetology schools often running between $16,000 and $25,000.

Required Skills and Classes

A cosmetology program can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a hairstylist. In hair school, you will learn about different hair types and textures, and how to cut, style, and color hair. You will also learn about hair care products and how to use them to achieve the desired results. In addition, you will learn about different hair styling techniques, such as curling, flat ironing, and braiding.

Expect to consume a lot of information, as not only will you have to learn techniques, but you’ll also need to learn a lot about biology, physiology, and understand how and when to use certain chemicals and tools.

State Licensing Exams

As of January 2022, California no longer requires a practical exam for aspiring hair designers. You will need to pass the national written examination developed by PSI Services. The test is available in a variety of languages besides English including Korean, Spanish, and Vietnamese. The exam fee of $125 covers licensing as well as exam costs.

How Much Do Hair Stylists Make in California?

The average hourly salary for a hairstylist in California ranked 11th in the country as of May 2021 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average annual salary was $18.65 and the annual salary was $38,790.

Does California Have Continuing Education Requirements for Hair Stylists?

California does not have any CEU requirements for hair designers, but you will need to renew your license every two years and pay the renewal fee of $50.

Contact Information for Licensing Board

The Department of Consumer Affairs manages hair stylist and cosmetology licensing in California. Their contact information can be found below.

Website: Department of Consumer Affairs
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 1-800-952-5210