Cosmetologist in Maine
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for ME
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Maine
To become a licensed Cosmetologist in Maine, you must apply through the Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation - Barbering and Cosmetology Licensing. Key steps include completing a 1500-hour training program at a licensed school or a 2500-hour apprenticeship, passing both the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams with a score of at least 75%, and submitting a completed application with a $40 fee. Maine offers reciprocity for out-of-state professionals whose qualifications are substantially equivalent, potentially waiving examination requirements.
Cosmetologist Requirements in Maine
| Detail | Maine |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation - Barbering and Cosmetology Licensing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1500-hour training program and 10th grade education |
| Exam | NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams ($248) |
| Application Fee | $40 |
| Renewal | Every 1.0 year |
| Notes | Minimum age is 17 years old. Apprenticeship of 2500 hours over at least 18 months is an alternative to the 1500 school hours. A 10th-grade education or equivalent is required. Passing score of 75% on both NIC written and practical exams is required. Maine does not require continuing education for licensed cosmetologists, only for instructors. |
Source: Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation - Barbering and Cosmetology Licensing
Cosmetologist Salary in Maine
The median cosmetologist salary in Maine is $48,480 per year, which is 37.5% above the national median of $35,250.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $30,730 |
| 25th | $36,270 |
| 50th (median) | $48,480 |
| 75th | $61,420 |
| 90th (experienced) | $74,160 |
Maine employs approximately 820 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 Maine Worth It?
Factors to consider: Maine's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.