Continuing education is a requirement for license renewal in most US states. But the rules are different everywhere. This guide covers what CE is, why it matters, and how to stay compliant in 2026.
What is continuing education for cosmetologists?
Continuing education (CE) is training that licensed cosmetologists complete after getting their initial license. States require it to make sure professionals stay current on health, safety, and sanitation practices. CE hours are required for license renewal in many states.
What counts as CE hours?
Only courses from board-approved providers count. Common CE categories include health and safety, chemical safety, sanitation and infection control, laws and rules, HIV/AIDS awareness, and elective topics. The specific categories and hours depend on your state. Check your state requirements page for details.
What does not count?
- •Courses from non-approved providers
- •Training completed before your current renewal cycle started
- •Hours in wrong categories (even if total is correct)
- •Webinars or workshops without a completion certificate
How to stay compliant
The easiest way to stay compliant is to track your hours as you go. Log each course right after you finish it, including the provider, category, and number of hours. Set reminders for your renewal date. StyleCE does all of this automatically and it is free for one license.