A career in hair design can be very rewarding. Those who enter the field can expect to earn a good salary and enjoy job security. In addition, hair stylists often have the opportunity to work flexible hours, which can be a great perk for those with families or other commitments.
The state of Maine is an excellent place to pursue a career in hair design. The region is home to many hair schools that offer comprehensive training programs. In addition, Maine hair stylists often have the opportunity to work in some of the country’s most beautiful settings, such as along the coast or in the mountains.
Hair Schools in Maine
State Requirements for Hairstylist Licensing in Maine
To become a hairdresser in Maine, you’ll need to earn a cosmetology license. Among the many requirements for this licensure is completing a state-accredited course with at least 1,500 hours of classroom time. Alternatively, you can complete 2,500 apprenticeship hours in place of coursework. An apprenticeship requires that you’re at least 16 years old, have completed 10th grade, and that you apply for a trainee license which includes an application fee and a background check.
Upon completing your hours you’ll need to pay for and pass Maine’s cosmetology exams. The National-Interstate Council’s (NIC) cosmetology exam comes in two parts. It includes a 90-minute written exam and a 3-hour practical exam. A 75% score is required to pass both tests.
Once you’ve passed, you have one year to pay your license application fee and get your license, otherwise, you’ll have to retake the exam to gain licensure. There’s a $41 application fee and you’ll have to submit proof of your coursework/apprenticeship, completion of at least the 10th grade, and that you’re at least 17 years old.
How Much Do Maine Hair Schools Cost?
According to the website College Tuition Compare, the average cost of tuition and fees in Maine for a cosmetology course is $17,150. Keep in mind, this does not include books and supplies, which they estimate will cost an additional $2,429.
Required Skills and Classes
Before you can complete any other step in the licensing process, you have to get the right education. Cosmetology schools offer programs specifically in hair design. You’ll not only learn how to create many hairstyles but also gain extensive knowledge about hair care and all its facets. This includes shampooing and conditioning your hair, cutting and styling it, coloring and highlighting, perming and straightening it – and possibly other talents like applying hair extensions. The fundamental structure of hair will be covered in detail as well as skin nail care; moreover, you’ll learn about illnesses that impact both areas.
You’ll learn about the cutting and styling tools, as well as the makeup and other products that hair designers use. You’ll have some practice using them. There will be sanitation and sterilization regulations to get accustomed to, as well as methods for following them. How to deal with clients is, of course, another crucial talent, and while being a “people person” helps, there are interpersonal skills that may be learned.
The cosmetology field is much more than meets the eye. Sure, making people look good is amazing, but there’s also a lot of work that goes into running a successful beauty business. Financial obligations, advertising and marketing campaigns, hiring qualified staff members, and keeping them motivated is only some of the important facets of owning a beauty business. In other words, the business side of things. Fortunately for aspiring beauticians everywhere, most community colleges in Maine offer two-year associate degree programs for aspiring hairstylists.
State Licensing Exam
The Maine state licensing exam for hairstylists is administered by DL Roope, a division of Prometric – a national testing company. You can apply for the exam online but there is a $10 online application fee.
As mentioned previously, there are two sections of the test, a 90-minute written test and a three-hour practical exam. You’ll need a 75% score or better to pass.
The exam will cover all the things you learned in your Maine hairstylist program, including topics such as:
- Client protection
- Haircutting
- Coloring
- Chemical waving
- Color retouches
- Cleanup
How Much Do Hairstylists Make in Maine?
Maine hairstylists are in the middle of the pack in terms of pay compared to other states. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics numbers from May 2021 Maine ranks 26th with an average hourly pay rate for hairstylists at $16.27, and an annual pay rate of $33,850.
Does Maine Have Continuing Education Requirements for Hairstylists?
Maine is a state that does require everyone under the cosmetology umbrella, including hairstylists, to earn continuing education credits to retain their license. You’ll need to complete 14 hours of continuing education at a state-accredited provider by the time you renew your license each October. There is also a $10 annual license renewal fee you will need to pay to the state.
Contact Information for Licensing Board
In Maine, the State of Maine Professional & Financial Regulation manages licensing for hairstylists and cosmetologists. The contact information is found below.
Website: Maine Professional & Licensing Regulation
Email: Department Contacts
Phone: (207) 624-8500
