Cosmetologist in Idaho
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for ID
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Idaho
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Idaho, applicants must be at least 16.5 years old and have completed the 10th grade. They need to complete 1600 hours of training from an Idaho Board-approved cosmetology program or 4000 hours through an apprenticeship. Candidates must pass the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams, as well as an Idaho Jurisprudence exam. Idaho offers licensure by endorsement for out-of-state cosmetologists who meet equivalent standards.
Cosmetologist Requirements in Idaho
| Detail | Idaho |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1600 hours of training from an Idaho Board-approved cosmetology program and 10th grade education |
| Experience Required | 4,000.0 hours |
| Exam | NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams, and Idaho Jurisprudence exam ($208) |
| Application Fee | $25 |
| Renewal | Every 1.0 year |
| Notes | Minimum age 16.5 years old. Apprenticeship of 4000 hours is an alternative to the 1600 school hours. |
Source: Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board
Cosmetologist Salary in Idaho
The median cosmetologist salary in Idaho is $33,820 per year, which is 4.1% below the national median of $35,250.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $18,270 |
| 25th | $25,680 |
| 50th (median) | $33,820 |
| 75th | $35,960 |
| 90th (experienced) | $36,900 |
Idaho employs approximately 1,860 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 Idaho Worth It?
Factors to consider: Idaho's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.