There are many hair schools in Rhode Island that can help you become a licensed hairstylist in the state. This is a good job to have because it is a creative and challenging field that allows you to express your individuality. In addition, hairstylists are in high demand and can command high salaries.
With this career, you will have the opportunity to work with a wide variety of people and help them look their best. If you are interested in a career in hair, Rhode Island is a great place to start your training.
This site is dedicated to providing information on the requirements to earn a hairstylist certification so please explore. We also have a comprehensive list of hair schools in Rhode Island so you can find classes near you.
Hair Schools in Rhode Island
State Requirements for Hairstylist Licensing in Rhode Island
In order to become a hairstylist in Rhode Island, you must complete a cosmetology program that has been approved by the state. The program must consist of at least 1,500 hours of study, and you must pass the state’s practical and written exams before you can be licensed. Once you have completed the program and passed the exam, you will need to submit an application to the Department of Health, which oversees licensing for barbering, hairdressing, and cosmetology in Rhode Island.
Along the way, you’ll have to pay for your exam fees as well as your application fees. Rhode Island’s application fee for license by examination is $25 and the exam fee is $75. Once you’ve earned your license, you will have to pay a fee with each license renewal as well.
How Much Do Rhode Island Hair Schools Cost?
If you want to attend a hair school in Rhode Island you’re likely going to spend around $15,000 for tuition. Being a smaller state, there are fewer options than many of the surrounding states. Also, it’s important to keep in mind that there may be additional costs for books and supplies, so you may need to budget an extra two or three thousand dollars for that expense.
Required Skills and Classes
To become a hairstylist in Rhode Island you’ll have to complete a cosmetology program. So, on top of learning the expected theory and skills behind shampooing, rinsing, cutting, lightening, curling, waving, styling, and coloring hair you’ll also learn a variety of non-hair related skills such as:
- Manicures
- Hair removal
- Skincare
- Makeup
- Client safety
- Sanitation
- Business and marketing
When you’ve finished the course you should know all you need in preparation for the Rhode Island practical and written exams.
State Licensing Exam
Rhode Island has two exams you must pass to earn your cosmetology license to work as a hair designer. The first, the written exam, is 90 minutes long and covers hair care and related services, cosmetology science, nail care, and skin care. Hair care is the most prominent topic covered, but you’ll need to be knowledgeable in all areas to pass.
The practical exam requires candidates to demonstrate their skills live to make sure they have mastered critical skills for cosmetologists and hairdressers such as:
- Client setup
- Facials
- Haircutting
- Hair styling
- Curling and relaxing hair
- Pinning hair
- Hair lightening
- Manicures
If you fail either or both exams, you’ll have to reschedule and take them again.
How Much Do Hairstylists Make in Rhode Island?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly pay rate for a hairstylist in Rhode Island is $15.71 per hour. That works out to an average of $32,680 annually.
Does Rhode Island Have Continuing Education Requirements for Hairstylists?
Rhode Island does not require hairstylists to complete any continuing education credits to retain their licenses. However, you will need to renew your license every two years and pay a $25 renewal fee. You can renew your license online on the Health Department website.
Contact Information for Licensing Board
Hairstylist and cosmetology licenses in Rhode Island are handled by the Department of Health. For the latest information, you can reach them using the following contact information:
Website: Board of Hairdressing and Barbering/Rhode Island Department of Health
Email: Contact page
Phone: (401) 222-5960
