Cosmetology License in Mississippi
This guide details the process to become a licensed cosmetologist in Mississippi, focusing on a total of 1500 training hours, including 350 classroom hours and 1150 clinical hours. The path from meeting prerequisites to obtaining a license can typically take from 9 to 12 months, with costs ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the chosen training program and additional fees.
Photo by Rendy Novantino on Unsplash
Cosmetology as a career in Mississippi offers both promising opportunities and stable income prospects. With a median salary of $25,060 per year and a national workforce of 575,200 in the field, which is projected to grow by 5.6% by 2034, aspiring cosmetologists in Mississippi find themselves in a favorable job market. This growth signifies not just an increase in job openings but also an enhanced requirement for professional services in personal care, indicating steady demand in this sector.
Mississippi has distinct state-specific regulations and conditions that impact cosmetologists. The state mandates specific licensing requirements that must be fulfilled to practice, including passing designated examinations and completing a set number of training hours. Mississippi's healthcare system and regional factors also contribute to the career's landscape, influencing everything from the types of services in demand to the prevalence of major employers in the beauty industry. These elements make Mississippi's market unique compared to other states.
This guide provides detailed information on how to obtain a cosmetology license in Mississippi, outlining the necessary steps from educational prerequisites to certification processes. It also offers insights into salary expectations and evaluates the local job market, helping potential cosmetologists understand what to anticipate in terms of career longevity and financial stability. By breaking down these processes and expectations, this guide aims to equip readers with the knowledge to successfully navigate their path towards becoming licensed cosmetologists in Mississippi.
Licensing Authority
Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology
In Mississippi, obtaining a Cosmetology License requires meeting specific educational, training, and examination requirements. The state mandates comprehensive training and a background check to ensure that licensed cosmetologists meet industry standards.
Official Resources
Mississippi Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 1500 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 350 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 1150 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Proof of training program completion
Certification Exam
- Exam
- Mississippi Cosmetology Examination
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- $120
How to Become a Cosmetology License in Mississippi
tuition $4500-$9500, exam fee $100, background check $50, application fee $25, textbooks/supplies $200, scrubs $125
Fastest Path
9 months
Typical Timeline
12 months
Estimated Cost
$5000–$10000
Verify You Meet Mississippi's Prerequisites
Before starting your journey to become a licensed cosmetologist in Mississippi, confirm that you meet all prerequisites. You must be at least 17 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Visit the Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology website to download the licensure guidelines which outline all necessary prerequisites. Processing your verification through your high school or GED program typically takes about 1-2 weeks.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Schedule and complete a background check and health screenings. Mississippi requires both state and FBI criminal background checks. Visit your local police department for fingerprinting services, which can be done for a fee. Health screenings typically include a TB test and a basic physical exam. Results from these checks can take up to 4 weeks to process. Ensure all records are up-to-date and ready to submit with your application.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting during less busy hours to avoid long wait times at the police station.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Identify a state-approved cosmetology training program in Mississippi. Attending a non-approved program will prevent you from sitting for the licensure exam, wasting both time and money. Visit the Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology's website to access a list of approved programs. Consider factors such as cost, location, and schedule flexibility. Contact the schools directly to inquire about enrollment dates and any prerequisites specific to their program.
Tip
Visit schools in person to get a feel for the environment and speak directly with the admissions office about program specifics.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you have chosen a program, complete the enrollment process and start your training. The program will consist of 1500 hours, with 350 hours in the classroom and 1150 hours of clinical practice. Ensure that you attend all required hours, as these are mandatory for sitting the licensure exam. Keep records of your attendance and performance throughout the program to present to the state board upon completion.
Tip
Keep a personal log of your hours in case of discrepancies with school records.
Prepare for the Cosmetology Licensure Exam
Begin preparing for the Mississippi Cosmetology Licensure Exam. The exam includes both a written and a practical component. Use study guides and past exam papers to prepare. The Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology website offers resources including practice exams and study tips. Allocate regular study times each week leading up to the exam to ensure you cover all necessary material.
Tip
Join study groups with peers from your training program to enhance learning and preparation.
Register for and Schedule the Cosmetology Exam
Register for the Mississippi Cosmetology Licensure Exam through the designated testing vendor. Complete the registration process online, selecting a test date and location that best fits your schedule. The fee for the exam is typically around $100. After registration, you will receive a confirmation with your test date, time, and location. Make sure to review this information and prepare accordingly.
Tip
Choose a test date that allows ample time for final review and preparation.
Take and Pass the Cosmetology Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive at the test center early with all required identification and materials. The Mississippi Cosmetology Licensure Exam includes both theoretical questions and practical assessments. You will have a set amount of time to complete each section. Upon passing the exam, you will receive a notification of your score. If you do not pass, review the retake policies and schedule another exam as needed.
Tip
Ensure you have all necessary materials and arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress.
Apply for State Certification and Register
After passing the exam, apply for your Mississippi cosmetology license. Complete the application form available on the Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology website, and submit it along with any required documentation and the application fee of $25. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once your application is approved, your license will be issued, and your name will be added to the state registry of licensed cosmetologists.
Tip
Double-check your application for any errors to avoid delays in processing.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your Mississippi cosmetology license in the mail. Verify that your information is correct and that your name appears on the state registry. This registry is accessible online, allowing potential employers to confirm your licensure status. Keep your license document safe, as you will need to present this as proof of your qualifications in your job search and professional practice.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the online registry to confirm the status of your license.
Find Your First Job
With your license in hand, start your job search. Use job boards, local salon listings, and networking events to find openings. Prepare a professional resume highlighting your training and any special skills. Consider entry-level positions to gain experience. Salary negotiations are common in this industry, so research average wages in your area to be prepared.
Tip
Attend local cosmetology events to network with potential employers and learn about job opportunities.
Alternative Training Paths
Apprenticeship Programs
Some candidates may opt for an apprenticeship program, which combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction under the supervision of a licensed cosmetologist. These programs are often paid and can take up to 2 years to complete but provide valuable hands-on experience.
Best for: Individuals who prefer learning in a practical, real-world environment
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Mississippi Board of Cosmetology approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
Mississippi Cosmetology License Examination administered by National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC)
Written Test
Questions: 100
Time Limit: 90 minutes
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: 75%
- • Scientific Concepts (30%)
- • Hair Care and Services (40%)
- • Skin Care Services (15%)
- • Nail Care Services (15%)
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 5
Time Per Skill: 30 minutes per skill
Candidates perform tasks on a mannequin or live model under examiner supervision.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID
- ✓ Admission letter
- ✓ Own supply kit for practical exam
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items such as bags, books, and electronic devices
- ✗ Food or drink in the examination area
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 1.5 hours. Break. Skills test varies but plan for approximately 3 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are issued at the test center immediately after exam completion. Official results are mailed within 10 business days.
If You Don't Pass
Candidates can retake the exam after 24 hours. Retake fees apply. Unlimited attempts are allowed.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on time management, especially during the skills test to ensure all tasks are completed within the allotted time.
- 2. Review the Candidate Information Bulletin thoroughly to understand the specific tools and procedures required in the practical exam.
- 3. Practice the skills on a mannequin as per the exam's standards to ensure smooth execution on test day.
- 4. During the written test, answer all questions you are sure about first, then return to more challenging questions if time allows.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From previous educational institutions or GED testing service · Varies · Varies
Required for enrollment in cosmetology schools
Government-issued Photo ID
State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) · Varies by type and state · Immediate to a few weeks
Needed for identification during exams and applications
Social Security Card
Social Security Administration office or online · 1-2 weeks
Necessary for legal employment verification
Proof of Age
Birth certificate or passport · Varies · Varies
Must be at least 17 years old
TB Test Results
Local clinics or hospitals · Approximately $20-$40 · Few days
Required by some schools to ensure health safety
CPR Certification
American Red Cross or American Heart Association · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies
May be required by some schools or employers
2During Training
Enrollment Agreement
Cosmetology school · Immediate
Legal document outlining the terms of your education
Attendance Record
Cosmetology school · Throughout training
Required to track progress and eligibility for exam
Performance Log
Cosmetology school · Throughout training
Documenting practical skills and experiences
3For the Exam
Application for Examination
Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology website · Varies
Must be approved before scheduling the exam
Exam Fee Payment
Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology website · Approximately $120-$195
Required to secure a spot for the licensing exam
Proof of Training Hours
Cosmetology school
Official document stating completion of required hours
4For Certification
Passing Exam Score Report
From exam center post-test
Official documentation of passing the state board exam
License Application
Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology website · Approximately $50
Required to officially issue the license
License Fee Payment
Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology website · Approximately $50
Payment for the issuance of the cosmetology license
After You're Certified: What's Next
Immediately after passing your cosmetology exam, verify your name on the Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology's online registry. Then, visit the board's office or website to request your official cosmetology license certificate. Ensure all your personal details are correct on the certificate.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Mississippi-specific job boards like ms.gov, local beauty salons' websites, Indeed, and Glassdoor
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Local beauty salons, spas, and wellness centers, which offer hands-on experience with a variety of services; retail stores with beauty counters, providing product-focused roles with sales incentives; franchise chains, which often have structured training programs
Resume Tip: Highlight any practical experience, even informal, such as services for friends or family. Include details of your cosmetology training, emphasizing hands-on components and any special workshops attended. Mention soft skills like communication, customer service, and time management.
Interview Tip: Expect to answer why you chose cosmetology, how you handle customer service scenarios, and your long-term career goals. Be prepared to demonstrate a practical skill, such as a basic haircut or makeup application.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Mississippi, a starting cosmetologist can expect to earn between $18,000 and $30,000 annually, depending on the location, type of employer, and hours worked.
Career Advancement Path
Master Cosmetologist
Requires additional hours of practical experience and passing a master level exam
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Building a client base can be slow initially. Effective strategies include offering promotions, leveraging social media for marketing, and delivering exceptional customer service to encourage repeat business and referrals.
Cosmetology License Salary in Mississippi
In Mississippi, cosmetology license holders earn significantly less than the national median, with an annual salary of $25,060 compared to the national median of $34,970. This discrepancy indicates lower wage scales for cosmetologists in the state.
Entry Level
$18,000
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$25,060
$12.05/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$28,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$34,970 national · -28.3% in Mississippi
Salary by Metro Area
Capital area, slightly below state median
Coastal area, aligns with state median
Mississippi's lower cost of living does not fully offset the lower wages for cosmetologists compared to the national average.
Benefits & Compensation
Benefits may include health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities, but vary significantly by employer.
Salary Growth Outlook
Growth potential in salary is moderate, generally aligning with experience and specialization within the field.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries in your specific area of Mississippi
- •Consider additional skills or certifications that may increase bargaining power
Job Market in Mississippi
The cosmetology job market in Mississippi is experiencing moderate growth, influenced by local economic conditions and consumer spending habits. Despite the national growth rate at 5.6% for the 2024-2034 period, Mississippi's growth is slightly lower due to a smaller population and less urban development compared to larger states. The demand in Mississippi is shaped by the prevalence of smaller towns and rural areas where beauty services remain a staple, albeit with less frequency and volume than in urban centers.
Top Hiring Areas
Capital city with the highest concentration of beauty salons
Tourism boosts seasonal demand for cosmetology services
Home to several cosmetology schools, supplying new professionals
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late autumn, aligning with graduation seasons and pre-holiday boosts in consumer spending
Opportunities
- Expanding market for non-traditional beauty services
- Potential for mobile and home-based beauty services in underserved areas
Challenges
- Lower average wages compared to national figures
- Economic sensitivity to fluctuations in disposable income
Training Programs in Mississippi
Mississippi offers diverse cosmetology training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored avenues. These programs prepare students for state licensure exams.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 9 to 12 months | USD 3,000 to USD 10,000 | In-person |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 8 to 15 months | USD 5,000 to USD 15,000 | In-person |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Laurel, Mississippi
High pass rates on state exams
Raymond, Mississippi
Affordable tuition with financial aid options
Online & Hybrid Options
Some schools offer hybrid models with online theoretical learning and in-person practical training.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's state approval and accreditation status.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Cosmetology License program info for Mississippi
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$50
CE Hours
16 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Sanitation, Hair styling techniques
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Mississippi accepts cosmetology licenses from other states through reciprocity if the original licensing state's requirements meet or exceed those of Mississippi.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Applicant must hold a current license in another state with similar or higher educational hours and testing standards as Mississippi.
- Official certification from the state board where the license was issued, showing license status and history.
State Agreements
All states, provided the licensure requirements are equal to or greater than those in Mississippi.
Additional Exams
No additional exams are required if the applicant's current license and training meet Mississippi's standards.
Application Process
Submit an application for reciprocity along with proof of current licensure, official certification from the issuing state, and the required fee. The board will review the application and issue a Mississippi license upon approval.
Fees
The reciprocity application fee is $100.
Processing Time: Applications are typically processed within 4 to 6 weeks.
Licensing Tips
Schedule your exam as soon as you complete your training to ensure you don't forget vital skills and knowledge.
Keep track of continuing education credits to avoid last-minute scrambling during renewal periods.
Recommended Resources
Milady Standard Cosmetology Exam Review
This book offers a comprehensive review of key concepts and provides practice questions similar to those on the Mississippi state board exams.
Mississippi Cosmetology Exam Practice Test
An online resource featuring updated practice tests reflecting the latest exam formats and regulations in Mississippi.
Salon Fundamentals Cosmetology Textbook
Textbook covering all aspects of cosmetology, from hair cutting and coloring to sanitation, aligned with national standards.
Cosmetology Licensing Exam Study Guide
Guide includes detailed information, tips, and strategies specifically designed to help pass state cosmetology licensing exams.
Professional Hairdressing Scissors
Essential for training in hair cutting techniques, these scissors are used extensively in practical cosmetology exams.
Mannequin Head with Human Hair
Used for practice in various hair treatments and styling, crucial for hands-on learning and examination.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-07
- Mississippi Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-07
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-07