Need to check the status of your cosmetology license? Every state has an online lookup tool. You can verify if your license is active, find your expiration date, and see if there are any issues. Here is how to do it.
Why look up your license?
There are a few reasons to check your license status online. You might want to confirm your renewal went through. A salon might need to verify your license before hiring you. Or you just want to check your expiration date. Whatever the reason, it takes less than five minutes.
How to find your state lookup tool
Every state board of cosmetology has a license verification page on their website. You can find links to all 51 boards on our state board directory. Go to your state board site and look for a link that says “license lookup,” “license verification,” or “license search.”
What you need to search
Most state lookup tools ask for one or more of the following:
- •Your full name (as it appears on your license)
- •Your license number
- •Your license type (cosmetologist, esthetician, barber, nail tech)
- •Your city or zip code (some states use this to narrow results)
What the results show
A typical lookup result shows your name, license number, license type, status (active, expired, or suspended), issue date, and expiration date. Some states also show disciplinary actions or CE compliance status.
What to do if your license shows expired
Do not panic. Check whether you are still in the grace period. Most states allow late renewal with a fee for 30 to 90 days after expiration. If you are past the grace period, you may need to apply for reinstatement. Read our guide on what to do when your license expires for step-by-step help.
Keep track of your renewal date
Instead of looking up your license every few months, use a tracker that reminds you. StyleCE shows your expiration date with a visual countdown and sends push reminders at 90, 60, 30, 14, 7, and 1 day before your license expires. It is free for one license.