6.23 Massachusetts Requirements
Key Takeaways
- Massachusetts cosmetology candidates should confirm training hours, age, education, exam, fee, renewal, and continuing education rules before applying.
- Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts licensing board before scheduling.
Massachusetts Cosmetology License Requirements
Massachusetts has one of the lowest training requirements at just 1,000 hours.
At a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Training Hours | 1,000 school hours |
| Minimum Age | 17 years old |
| Education | None specified |
| Exam Type | Written and Practical (Pearson VUE) |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Exam Fee | Approximately $100-150 |
| License Fee | $66 |
| Renewal | Every 2 years (birthday) |
| CE Required | No |
Key Features
- Lowest hour requirement tied with California, New York, Texas, and Virginia
- No continuing education required
- No apprenticeship option - School training only
Examination Details
Massachusetts uses Pearson VUE for both written and practical examinations.
No Apprenticeship
Unlike many states, Massachusetts does NOT offer an apprenticeship pathway. All training must be completed at a Board-approved school.
State Board Contact
Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering
- Website: mass.gov/orgs/board-of-registration-of-cosmetology-and-barbering
- Phone: (617) 727-9940
Exam Focus
For Massachusetts, 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.