How Long Does it Take to Get a Cosmetology License in Washington?
No matter what, people love to feel and look their best. This has helped the demand for trained and certified hair stylists remain steady even during tough economic times. This makes cosmetology a great career to pursue. Training for these careers takes time, but it is an investment that is well worth it.
Cosmetology Licenses in Washington
Requirements for State Board Certification vary widely from state to state, but most require a minimum number of 1,600 training hours paired with the successful completion of a certification test. Each state has a Board of Cosmetology that oversees this training, testing, and certification process. Each accredited beauty school in that state centers its curriculum on the requirements the state has in place for certification. This gives the graduates from school the best opportunity of being successful.
Beauty School Training Programs
Beauty school training programs are offered by cosmetology schools, vocational schools, and technical colleges in almost every community across the United States. Most of these programs offer both classroom-based theoretical instruction and hands-on training in a student salon on campus. Some schools also offer online classes, and students only commute to campus for practical lab work or to work in the salon.
Beauty colleges typically require between 1,200 and 1,800 hours of cosmetology training in their programs. These hourly requirements are based on the state’s licensure requirements. For example, getting a cosmetology license in Washington state requires 1,600 hours, so schools in Washington offer programs that take 1,600 hours to complete.
Once the training hours are completed, your beauty school education should have prepared you for the certification exam, and you will be ready to test for it. Passing this exam will be the last hurdle you must clear in order to receive your cosmetology license.
After licensing is complete, you can begin working as a cosmetologist!
Careers in Cosmetology
Once you become a cosmetologist, you are now qualified to potentially have a successful career in the beauty industry. A career in the beauty industry is filled with creativity, is fast-paced, exciting, and constantly has room for growth and mastering new skills. Some careers may include:
- Salon Owner
- Fashion Show Artist
- Wedding Artist
- Film/TV Set Artist
Apprenticeship Programs
Some states allow you to serve as an apprentice instead of attending a traditional beauty school program. Many states require you receive more training hours during an apprenticeship program than at a beauty college.
Renewal
You must renew your cosmetology license in Washington every two years. This is a typical renewal time in most states. Unlike most states, however, Washington does not require continuing education hours to keep your certification. They are always a great idea, though, because they help you keep your skills sharp and become aware of current trends in the industry.
Become a Cosmetologist
Evergreen Beauty College offers cosmetology programs at four Washington State campuses. We can help you to discover all of the training options available. Above all, we want to help you have a successful cosmetology career. Contact us at one of our locations to begin your journey towards success!
