If you’re interested in becoming a hairstylist in Maryland, there are a few things you should know. First of all, it’s a great state to start your career in hair design. There are many hair schools located throughout Maryland, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. And, because Maryland is such a densely populated state, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to find a hair school that’s close to where you live.
The benefits of being a hairstylist in Maryland are numerous. For one, you’ll be able to work in a variety of settings, including salons, spas, and resorts. And, because the state has such a diverse population, you’ll have the opportunity to work with people from all walks of life. In fact, many hairstylists in Maryland choose to specialize in working with certain ethnic groups or hair types. So, if you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding career, becoming a hairstylist in Maryland is definitely worth considering.
Hair Schools in Maryland
State Requirements for Hairstylist Licensing in Maryland
In order to become a licensed hairstylist in the state of Maryland, you must first complete a hair school program that is at least 1,500 hours in length. You can also do a 24-month apprenticeship if you’d prefer to go that route instead of going to a Maryland hair school near you.
Once you have completed your schooling or apprenticeship, you must then pass both a written and a practical exam in order to receive your license. The written exam covers topics such as hair care, hair coloring, and hair cutting, while the practical exam requires you to demonstrate your skills on a live model. Once you have passed both exams, you will be able to apply for your license and once that arrives, start a job at any hair salon in Maryland.
Some additional requirements include being at least 17 years old to begin a cosmetology school, along with a number of fees you must pay for licensing and tests.
How Much Do Maryland Hair Schools Cost?
There can be quite a range when it comes to the cost of your cosmetology program to become a licensed hairstylist. On the lower end of tuition fees, you can find schools for around $17,000. On the upper end, you can find schools that will cost over $23,000. Most programs are at least 11 months long, while some go as long as 15 months. You’ll also want to inquire about the typical cost for books and supplies, as these “hidden” costs can sometimes tack on a few more thousand dollars to your tuition cost.
Required Skills and Classes
When you go to school to become a hairstylist in Maryland you’ll have to complete a cosmetology program or apprenticeship. So, in addition to learning about hair cutting, styling, and coloring techniques, you’ll also take classes in hair care, salon management, and customer service in addition to some other skills that may not be hair-related.
Your program will be geared towards giving you the knowledge and skills you’ll need to pass the written and practical exams to earn your license. In addition to courses covering all aspects of hair, you can expect to cover topics such as:
- Nail care
- Safety and sanitation
- Keeping records
- Customer service
- Maryland’s laws and regulations for cosmetologists
- Salon administration
State Licensing Exam
There are two sections to Maryland’s exam for hairstylists and cosmetologists. There’s a practical test and a written test. You can register and pay for them separately and pay $49 for each exam, or you can combine them and only pay $79.
The written theory portion of the exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that you will have two hours to complete. The practical portion of the exam requires you bring your own supply kit, mannequin head and hand, and demonstrate various skills you’ve learned within 195 minutes.
The state exam is managed by PSI Services, to schedule an exam or learn about upcoming test dates you can reach them by phone at (800) 733-9267.
How Much Do Hairstylists Make in Maryland?
Maryland’s hairstylists get paid rather handsomely in the grand scheme of things. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ data from May 2021 Maryland ranks as the state with the 9th highest pay for hairstylists. The average hourly pay rate is $18.96 and $39,440 annually.
Does Maryland Have Continuing Education Requirements for Hairstylists?
Yes. Maryland licenses for all cosmetologists last two years and within that timeframe, you must complete 12 hours of continuing education credits from an accredited program. Maryland requires that at least one hour is dedicated to each of the following four subjects:
- Sanitation and sterilization
- Communicable diseases
- Maryland safety and health regulations
- Maryland state law
There is a $25 fee due with each license renewal. You can renew your license online here.
Contact Information for Licensing Board
In Maryland licensing for hairstylists is managed by the Maryland Board of Cosmetologists. If you need to reach them you can use the contact information below.
Website: Maryland Board of Cosmetologists
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (410) 230-6190
