6.14 Idaho Requirements
Key Takeaways
- Idaho cosmetology candidates should confirm training hours, age, education, exam, fee, renewal, and continuing education rules before applying.
- Idaho requirements are a state-specific supplement to the broader NIC theory, sanitation, hair, skin, and nail service content.
- Application approval, exam scheduling, and license issuance are separate steps, so candidates should keep board documentation organized.
- Reciprocity or endorsement rules can differ from first-time licensing and may require proof of education, exams, or license history.
- Fees, forms, and board procedures can change, so candidates should verify current instructions with the Idaho licensing board before scheduling.
Idaho Cosmetology License Requirements
Idaho has one of the highest training hour requirements at 2,000 hours and uses NIC examinations plus a state jurisprudence exam.
At a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Training Hours | 2,000 school hours OR 4,000 apprenticeship hours |
| Minimum Age | 16.5 years old |
| Education | 10th grade completion |
| Exam Type | NIC Written and Practical + Idaho Jurisprudence |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Exam Fee | Approximately $100-150 |
| License Fee | $25 annual |
| Renewal | Annually |
| CE Required | No |
Examination Requirements
Idaho requires three components:
- NIC Theory (Written) Exam
- NIC Practical Exam
- Idaho Jurisprudence Exam (state laws)
Apprenticeship Option
Idaho offers an apprenticeship pathway requiring 4,000 hours - double the school-based requirement.
Annual Renewal
Unlike most states with biennial renewal, Idaho requires annual license renewal with a $25 fee.
State Board Contact
Idaho Board of Cosmetology
- Website: ibol.idaho.gov
- Phone: (208) 334-3233
Exam Focus
For Idaho, study the licensing checklist as a sequence: eligibility, training hours, board application, exam approval, theory testing, practical testing when required, initial license issuance, and renewal. Do not memorize the table as isolated facts. State board questions often ask what a candidate must complete before scheduling, which agency handles approval, whether NIC or a state-specific exam is used, and how reciprocity or endorsement differs from a first-time license. Pair this page with the sanitation, infection control, hair care, skin care, and nail care chapters so you can connect state rules to the national service standards.