Cosmetologist in Delaware
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DE
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Delaware
To become a licensed Cosmetologist in Delaware, applicants must complete a 1500-hour training program or a 3000-hour apprenticeship and hold a 10th-grade education or equivalent. Candidates must pass the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams, administered by Professional Credential Services (PCS). Delaware offers reciprocity for licensed cosmetologists from other states who meet similar training requirements or have at least one year of recent full-time experience.
Cosmetologist Requirements in Delaware
| Detail | Delaware |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1500-hour training program and 10th grade education |
| Experience Required | 3,000.0 hours |
| Exam | NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (administered by Professional Credential Services - PCS) ($225) |
| Application Fee | $147 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age is 16 years old. A 10th-grade education or equivalent is required. Criminal history may affect licensure eligibility. Apprenticeship of 3000 hours is an alternative to the 1500 school hours, and must be completed within 18 to 36 months. Delaware offers reciprocity for qualified cosmetologists licensed in other states with similar requirements or with at least one year of full-time experience within the last five years. |
Cosmetologist Salary in Delaware
The median cosmetologist salary in Delaware is $30,980 per year, which is 12.1% below the national median of $35,250.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $27,560 |
| 25th | $28,630 |
| 50th (median) | $30,980 |
| 75th | $48,000 |
| 90th (experienced) | $87,300 |
Delaware employs approximately 1,340 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 Delaware Worth It?
Factors to consider: Delaware's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.