Cosmetologist in Arizona
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AZ
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Arizona
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Arizona, applicants must complete a 1500-hour training program at a Board-approved school and meet age and education prerequisites, such as being at least 16 with two years of high school or a GED, or being at least 18. Candidates must pass both the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams, administered by Professional Credential Services (PCS). The Arizona Barbering and Cosmetology Board handles licensing, and reciprocity is available for those with comparable out-of-state licenses and who may complete an Arizona infection protection and law review class.
Cosmetologist Requirements in Arizona
| Detail | Arizona |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Arizona Barbering and Cosmetology Board |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1500-hour training program and either two years of high school education (10 credits) or a GED/high school diploma equivalent, OR be at least 18 years old. |
| Exam | NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (administered by PSI) ($177) |
| Application Fee | $60 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be at least 16 years old with two years of high school or a GED, or be at least 18 years old. Reciprocity is available for those with a current, valid license from another state or country with substantially similar requirements and passing the necessary exams. An infection protection and Arizona law class may be required for reciprocity applicants. |
Cosmetologist Salary in Arizona
The median cosmetologist salary in Arizona is $35,220 per year, which is 0.1% below the national median of $35,250.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $29,850 |
| 25th | $30,460 |
| 50th (median) | $35,220 |
| 75th | $45,280 |
| 90th (experienced) | $56,150 |
Arizona employs approximately 7,760 cosmetologists.
Cosmetologist Job Outlook
AI Impact on Cosmetologists
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.68/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Cosmetologist in Arizona Worth It?
Factors to consider: Arizona's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.