Nebraska Hair Braiding School and Requirements

Hair braiders in Nebraska can begin their careers without licensure. However, some braiders in the state voluntarily gain a cosmetology license to give themselves a broader beauty foundation and offer their clients a wider variety of services.

Read on to learn about what Nebraska hair braiders can do, when to consider earning your state cosmetology license, and how much you could earn in this career.

Browse our directory of hair braiding schools in Nebraska, or skip ahead to learn about the state's hair braiding licensing requirements and job outlook.

What Nebraska Hair Braiders Can Do

Nebraska hair braiders can provide many types of braids and twists, and specialists must know how to work with and care for natural hair. They may also specialize in installing weaves, extensions, and wigs.

The state recognizes that many professional hair braiders learned styling skills from family and friends while growing up. Thanks to this, it stopped requiring formal hair braider training and licensure, expecting hair braiders to have had lifelong experience. If you have some knowledge gaps but don't want to go for a cosmetology license, you can consider attending continuing education classes.

Since Nebraska doesn't require braiders to become licensed, the state restricts what they can do. The state doesn't allow braiders to cut hair or use chemicals that alter hair permanently or semi-permanently. However, you can get a cosmetology license to do these things.

When to Consider Getting a Nebraska Cosmetology License as a Braider

A Nebraska cosmetology license allows you to perform services other hair braiders can't offer, like cutting, dyeing, and relaxing. Having a license may also make moving your business out of state easier if you ever want to relocate.

Nebraska Cosmetology School for Hair Braiders

Cosmetology students in Nebraska must complete at least 1,800 hours of training at a state-approved hair school and then pass the NIC written exam. Though the curriculum doesn't contain much on braiding, it does cover a wide range of other hair and beauty subjects.

READ MORE: Learn More About Cosmetology School in Nebraska

Nebraska Hair Braider Salary

No matter where you live, beauty professionals' salaries are hard to pin down. Factors like years of experience, specialties, type of workplace, and licensure can affect pay.

In March 2025, ZipRecruiter found that hair braiders in Nebraska earned an average of $34,438 per year ($17 per hour). However, the numbers for this resource primarily come from job listings and change frequently. Self-employed braiders may be underrepresented.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) found that, as of 2023, cosmetologists and hair professionals in the state averaged $41,050 per year ($19.74 hourly). The BLS doesn't factor in self-employed people; the data strictly comes from businesses that responded to its survey.

To get a stronger idea of how much you could earn as a braider in Nebraska, speak to other hair braiders in your area.

Contact the Nebraska State Board of Cosmetology