Cosmetologist in Minnesota
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MN
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Minnesota
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Minnesota, individuals must complete 1,550 hours of training at a board-approved cosmetology school and hold a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must pass the Minnesota Cosmetology Exam, which includes General, State, and Practical sections. The application fee for initial licensure is $195, and the license must be renewed every three years with 8 hours of continuing education. Minnesota offers reciprocity for out-of-state licensees who meet the state's training hour requirements and hold a current, valid license.
Cosmetologist Requirements in Minnesota
| Detail | Minnesota |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1550 hours of training at a board-approved cosmetology school and a high school diploma or GED. |
| Exam | Minnesota Cosmetology Exam (General, State, and Practical sections) ($60) |
| Application Fee | $195 |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 8.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age of 17. CE requirement is 4 hours of core topics (safety, infection control, laws & rules) and 4 hours of professional practice. Exam results are valid for one year. Initial training is valid for five years. |
Cosmetologist Salary in Minnesota
The median cosmetologist salary in Minnesota is $42,850 per year, which is 21.6% above the national median of $35,250.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $24,530 |
| 25th | $33,670 |
| 50th (median) | $42,850 |
| 75th | $57,490 |
| 90th (experienced) | $62,530 |
Minnesota employs approximately 5,230 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 Minnesota Worth It?
Factors to consider: Minnesota's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.