Cosmetologist in Missouri
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MO
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Missouri
To become a licensed Cosmetologist in Missouri, you must complete 1500 hours of training at a Board-approved cosmetology school or 3000 hours as an apprentice. After completing your education, you need to pass both the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Examinations, administered by Prov. Finally, submit your application along with a $25 fee to the Missouri Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. Reciprocity is available for those licensed in other states with similar requirements or two years of experience, provided they meet specific documentation and testing criteria.
Cosmetologist Requirements in Missouri
| Detail | Missouri |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Missouri Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1500 hours of training from a Board-approved school or 3000 hours as an apprentice. Must be at least 17 years old and have a 10th-grade education or GED. |
| Exam | NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Examinations (administered by Prov) ($146) |
| Application Fee | $25 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age is 17 years old. A 10th-grade education or GED is required. Apprenticeship of 3000 hours is an alternative to the 1500 school hours. No continuing education is required for renewal. |
Cosmetologist Salary in Missouri
The median cosmetologist salary in Missouri is $30,390 per year, which is 13.8% below the national median of $35,250.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $26,600 |
| 25th | $28,570 |
| 50th (median) | $30,390 |
| 75th | $43,580 |
| 90th (experienced) | $73,050 |
Missouri employs approximately 5,470 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 Missouri Worth It?
Factors to consider: Missouri's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.