Age Requirements for Cosmetology School
Whether you're still in school or want to try something different later in life, a new career in hair and beauty is an exciting prospect. You may fear you're too old or too young to get your cosmetology license. But worry not; we're here to guide you through the process with information on age requirements, educational must-haves, and more.
How Old Do I Need to Be to Go to Cosmetology School?
The minimum age you need to be to get your cosmetology license varies depending on the state you live in, with most minimum age thresholds sitting between 16 and 18 years old. For example, in Alabama and Ohio, you must be at least 16 years; in New York and California, it's 17; and in Nevada and Kentucky, it's 18.
For those of you looking to change careers later in life, don't worry—there's no maximum age limit for cosmetology school, and many people do follow their passion to attend in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
Do I Need to Have Graduated High School to Start Beauty School?
No, you don't always need to be a high school graduate to attend cosmetology school.
Educational requirements vary from state to state—several, including Florida, New Jersey, and Georgia, do require cosmetology students to have a high school diploma (or an equivalent, like a GED). Texas usually asks for a high school diploma but allows students to take an "ability-to-benefit" test at a community college instead (if needed).
Some states, such as California and South Carolina, have a slightly lower threshold and ask for a 10th-grade education before enrolling in beauty school. Others, such as Connecticut and Maryland, only require a 9th-grade education. You can check your state's cosmetology page to find specific details.
Can I Start Cosmetology School While I'm in High School?
Yes, it's possible to start training for your cosmetology license while still in high school. Some schools, such as Hereford High School in Texas, actually offer postsecondary classes in subjects like cosmetology so their students can get a head start on their new careers even before graduation.
Alternatively, you can enroll in an outside cosmetology program while finishing high school. This is known as dual enrollment or concurrent enrollment. It can be hard work, but has its advantages—it allows you to get your license sooner and spend time on a subject you love. In some cases, the state may even pay for your education.
"Check if your high school offers a dual enrollment with a trade school," says one Reddit user. "It's typically a year or two program, and often the state will pay the entire cost, including tools."
Even if you don't start a dedicated cosmetology program before leaving high school, you can still take classes that'll set you up nicely for a future in hair and beauty. "Anatomy and physiology, chemistry, biology, public speaking, marketing, [and] photography were offered when I was in high school," says another Reddit user. "You can't learn the first three things enough, repetition just makes you stronger. The last three were electives, and all could serve you well if you think you're lacking in one of those areas."
Am I Too Old for Cosmetology School?
Thankfully, there's no such thing as "too old" when it comes to starting a career in cosmetology. Many people join the industry later in life, either re-training after leaving previous careers or following their passion for hair and beauty after having a family or losing interest in a starter career.
"I turned 48 on the day I graduated from my cosmo program, leaving behind a very lucrative job as a tech executive in the most expensive city in the United States," says Reddit user Lannanh. "I do not regret my decision one bit and if there are any regrets, I only wish I had made the switch sooner. I love it and the fact that my career is basically 'crafting' and not being chained to a desk all day."
Another thread featured this from a cosmetology teacher, who agreed that older students sometimes have the most to offer: "I'm the COO of a local chain of cosmetology schools and salons. Older students are our most successful. They are generally very well respected, I think because of their commitment. They are always at the head of their class, but in a good way, helping others along."