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Illinois Cosmetology — Requirements & Free Practice

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CE Sponsor

Department approval of an education provider serving cosmetology licensees; applicant programme and instructor qualifications are conditions.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation · Application information

Initial education sponsor approval
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Applicant scope
An eligible entity providing approved courses to cosmetology licensees.
Education assessments
Course examinations, instructor certificates, other-profession licences and training qualifications are conditions, not cosmetology licensing examinations.
Official qualifications
Section 1175.1200 Sponsor Approval a) Sponsor, as used in this Section, shall mean accredited universities and colleges, industry or trade associations, corporate salons, franchise salons, independent salons, vocational and technical schools, cosmetology schools, and other entities that have been approved and authorized by the Division to coordinate and present CE courses or programs for cosmetologists, cosmetology teachers, cosmetology clinic teachers, estheticians, esthetics teachers, nail technicians, nail technology teachers, hair braiders and hair braiding teachers. b) A CE sponsor application shall be filed with the Division to be approved as a CE sponsor. The application shall include: 1) A copy of the Certificate of Attendance, which shall contain the following information: A) The CE sponsor name and address; B) Place for insertion of the CE sponsor registration number. The sponsor registration number must appear on all issued Certificates of Attendance; C) Course title, category of CE (cosmetology, nail technician, esthetics, hair braiding), and place for insertion of the date of the course. The date of the course must appear on all issued Certificates of Attendance; D) Place of insertion of the participant's name and license number. The participant's name and license number must appear on all issued Certificates of Attendance; and E) Number of hours awarded. 2) A CE course outline, including evidence of appropriate facilities, instructor qualifications and content of the course. 3) Name, title, phone number, email address, and address of the contact person responsible for all recordkeeping. 4) Certification that the sponsor will comply with all sponsor CE requirements set forth in this Subpart L. 5) Ownership structure, such as individual/sole proprietorship, corporation, limited liability company (LLC) or partnership, and documentation supporting said ownership and legal authorization to use the business name, such as Articles of Incorporation or Organization filed with the Illinois Secretary of State, or an Assumed Name certificate issued by the Illinois Secretary of State or the county clerk where the business is located. 6) The public email address and telephone number for the business. 7) Name, address, email address and telephone number of owner. If a corporation, LLC or partnership, the name, address, email address and telephone number of the chief executive officer (CEO) or managing partner. 8) Federal employer identification number (FEIN) of owner. 9) The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100. c) A CE sponsor shall provide CE courses and programs that are organized programs of formal learning that contribute directly to a licensee's knowledge and ability to perform duties as a licensee. No product sales shall be permitted during a continuing education program. (Product sales/selling is any activity that involves a deal sheet or invoice or mention of prices or special deals. These activities are prohibited during the presentation of CE programs.) After the continuing education program is concluded and the certificates of attendance are distributed to the attendees, product sales shall be permitted. A CE program or course must meet the following minimum requirements: 1) Be developed and presented by persons with education, training and practical experience in the subject matter to be presented. 2) Include a student evaluation of both instructor and the course. 3) Specify the course objectives, content, prerequisites, requirements, the licensure category for which the CE applies and the number of CE hours to be earned. This information shall be specified in all promotional materials. 4) Be in the following subject areas for cosmetologists, estheticians and nail technicians: A) Advanced product chemistry and chemical interaction; B) The use of machines and implements; C) Sanitary procedures; D) Hazardous chemicals; E) Exposure minimization; F) Updated use of implements as they relate to applicable services under this Act; G) Advanced knowledge of the anatomy of the skin, scalp, hair and/or nails; H) Human relations/communication skills; and I) Management and marketing. 5) Be in the following subject areas for cosmetology, esthetics and nail technology teachers in addition to the areas set forth in subsection (c)(4): A) Teaching methodology; B) Educational psychology; C) Classroom management; or D) Other teaching related courses. 6) Individual study courses (online courses) sponsored by an approved sponsor shall include an examination and a means of verification that the licensee has successfully completed the course. (See Section 1175.1210(e).) d) All sponsors shall verify attendance at each CE course or program. A record of attendance shall be kept for no less than 5 years. Sponsors shall give each successful participant a record of completion at the end of the course or program. All records shall include the following information: name, address and license number for each participant, category of CE (cosmetology, nail technician, esthetics, teacher education), number of hours awarded, course title and date of course. Sponsors may delegate recordkeeping duties to one of their members or member groups. e) CE sponsors shall be required to renew their approval every two years upon submittal of the renewal application and the required fee. The first renewal shall be December 31, 1997. f) All CE programs given on or after October 1, 1996, must be given by a sponsor who has been approved by the Division to provide CE. g) All sponsors approved by the Division as of December 31, 1995, will be required to submit an application, the required fee and meet the current requirements set forth in this Part and the Act to continue to provide CE programs on or after October 1, 1996. An approved sponsor may subcontract with individuals and organizations to provide approved programs. Any time the sponsor subcontracts with a presenter, all advertisements, promotional materials and the Certificate of Attendance will bear the name, address and registration number of the sponsor. The name of the subcontractor may appear as the "Presenter" but no document shall imply that the subcontractor is registered as a CE sponsor.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Education sponsor renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing sponsor
Hold the corresponding approved sponsor registration; lapsed for restoration.
Fee and application
CE sponsor renewal fee is $100 every two years and lapse restoration is $250; domestic violence sponsor renewal is $50 every two years and lapse restoration is $100. Submit required application and fee.
Programme compliance
Maintain the corresponding programme, instructor and recordkeeping requirements in 1175.1200.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Education sponsor restoration after lapse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing sponsor
Hold the corresponding approved sponsor registration; lapsed for restoration.
Fee and application
CE sponsor renewal fee is $100 every two years and lapse restoration is $250; domestic violence sponsor renewal is $50 every two years and lapse restoration is $100. Submit required application and fee.
Programme compliance
Maintain the corresponding programme, instructor and recordkeeping requirements in 1175.1200.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Cosmetology Clinic Teacher

Existing clinic teacher licences may be renewed or restored for life. No new clinic teacher licences are issued after January 1, 2009.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation · Application information

Restoration following active military service
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current fee
The rule calls for payment of the current renewal fee.
Inactive status ce
Restoration from inactive status remains subject to 225 ILCS 410/3-7.1 continuing education requirements.
Service
Licence expired during qualifying federal active military service, militia service, or supervised pre-induction training or education.
Service proof
Submit DD-214 and affidavit of qualifying service; statutory lapsed-renewal, reinstatement and restoration fee exemption applies if restoration sought within two years of nondishonourable termination.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fee
Submit renewal application and fee.
Continuing education
24 CE hours within the two years before renewal, except first renewal following original issuance. For teachers and clinic teachers ten of twenty-four hours must be teaching-related.
Course assessments
Online individual-study CE completion may involve course examinations under 1175.1200(c)(6); these unspecified education assessments are conditions.
Domestic violence education
Comply with 1175.1220 domestic violence and sexual assault awareness course requirement; CE waiver may be requested under 1175.1215.
Renewal timing
Renew in the month preceding September 30 expiration: odd years for cosmetologists; even years for teachers and clinic teachers.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration after suspension or revocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board recommendation
Department may restore on written Board recommendation unless investigation and hearing establish restoration is not in the public interest.
Completed discipline
Successfully complete term of suspension or revocation.
Individual order
The individual disciplinary order and Board determination remain applicant conditions; 225 ILCS 410/4-17 does not name a licensing examination.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration — five years or more, documented lawful practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fee
Submit application and required fee.
Continuing education
24 CE hours within preceding two years.
Lawful practice
At least twenty-four months of licensed practice in another jurisdiction within five preceding years, verified by three clients, coworkers or owners for cosmetologists; three students, coworkers or school owners for teachers.
Licence certification
Provide certification from the jurisdiction authorizing the practice.
Prior licence
Licence expired for five years or more; 1175.430 also expressly covers cosmetologist inactive status for five years or more.
Questionnaire
Submit completed Restoration Questionnaire.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration or reactivation — less than five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fee
Submit restoration application and required restoration or current renewal fee.
Continuing education
24 CE hours within the preceding two years.
Inactive status
Inactive-status restoration follows 225 ILCS 410/3-7.1; no practice while inactive.
Prior licence
Expired or inactive for less than five years.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Cosmetologist

Professional cosmetology licence. School training and licensed-professional conversion routes are distinct applicant pathways.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation · Application information

Licensure by examination — barber school graduate
Illinois Cosmetology Examination
Abnormal skin growth education
An original licensure applicant on or after January 1, 2026 must prove completion of Department-approved abnormal skin growth education, including identifying melanoma, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.
Application and fees
Submit the Department application, required supporting records and fees.
Barber training
Graduate from a licensed barber school with 1,500 barbering hours and at least 500 additional cosmetology hours over at least three months.
Foreign training
Foreign-country training may require credential evaluation at applicant expense, additional coursework, a 250-hour refresher course, interview, or further information.
Minimum age
At least 16 years old.
Older instructions conflict
The older 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1175.410(d) says: "If an applicant has not submitted an application for licensure within 12 months after taking and passing the examination, the applicant must retake and pass the examination prior to being granted a license." The April 16, 2025 application instructions likewise state one year. The effective statute 225 ILCS 410/4-5(e) controls the three-year period.
Remedial training
After three failed Department examinations, provide at least 100 hours of additional cosmetology study; the Department may waive remedial training.
School final exam
Provide a transcript showing a passing grade on the school final examination. This school-specific qualification is a condition, not an identified state licensing examination.
Score application window
225 ILCS 410/4-5(e), effective January 1, 2026, allows three years after notification of passing to apply for licensure; failure to apply within three years requires retaking and passing the examination.
Secondary education
Beyond compulsory school attendance or a high school graduate or recognized equivalent.
Licensure by endorsement — United States licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Abnormal skin growth education
An original licensure applicant on or after January 1, 2026 must prove completion of Department-approved abnormal skin growth education, including identifying melanoma, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.
Application and fees
Submit application and endorsement fee.
Application window
Complete endorsement application within three years under 225 ILCS 410/4-5(d).
Certifications
Provide official original and current licensing jurisdiction certifications.
Existing licence
Currently licensed or registered as a cosmetologist in another United States jurisdiction under substantially similar licensing requirements.
Name change
Provide documentary proof of any name change.
Prior illinois failure
This route applies where the applicant has not previously failed the Illinois licensing examination; the special prior-failure pathway is separately retained as unresolved.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Licensure by endorsement — foreign country licence
Illinois Cosmetology Examination
Abnormal skin growth education
An original licensure applicant on or after January 1, 2026 must prove completion of Department-approved abnormal skin growth education, including identifying melanoma, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.
Application and fees
Application, required endorsement fee, licence certifications, and name-change proof.
Education
Provide sealed transcripts of subjects and hours; evaluation at applicant expense and extra coursework or 250-hour refresher may be required.
Exam discretion
Under 1175.420(c)(2) the Board may require the Illinois cosmetology examination; the leaf remains present even when waived for an individual.
Foreign licence
Hold a substantially similar foreign-country cosmetologist licence; provide original and current official licence documents, examination descriptions and grades.
Interview
The Board may require interview or further training information.
Practice
At least three years of practice after foreign qualification within five years before endorsement application, verified by at least three clients, coworkers or business owners.
Prior illinois failure
If previously unsuccessful in Illinois, 1175.420(f) additionally requires proof of a later substantially equivalent passing examination; its unspecified identity is a condition.
Licensure as cosmetologist — licensed barber
Illinois Cosmetology Examination
Abnormal skin growth education
An original licensure applicant on or after January 1, 2026 must prove completion of Department-approved abnormal skin growth education, including identifying melanoma, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.
Application and fees
Submit the Department application, required supporting records and fees.
Existing licence
Hold a current barber or barber teacher licence.
Foreign training
Foreign-country training may require credential evaluation at applicant expense, additional coursework, a 250-hour refresher course, interview, or further information.
Minimum age
At least 16 years old.
Older instructions conflict
The older 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1175.410(d) says: "If an applicant has not submitted an application for licensure within 12 months after taking and passing the examination, the applicant must retake and pass the examination prior to being granted a license." The April 16, 2025 application instructions likewise state one year. The effective statute 225 ILCS 410/4-5(e) controls the three-year period.
Remedial training
After three failed Department examinations, provide at least 100 hours of additional cosmetology study; the Department may waive remedial training.
School final exam
Provide a transcript showing a passing grade on the school final examination. This school-specific qualification is a condition, not an identified state licensing examination.
Score application window
225 ILCS 410/4-5(e), effective January 1, 2026, allows three years after notification of passing to apply for licensure; failure to apply within three years requires retaking and passing the examination.
Secondary education
Beyond compulsory school attendance or a high school graduate or recognized equivalent.
Supplemental training
Complete the 500-hour supplemental cosmetology course.
Licensure as cosmetologist — licensed esthetician
Illinois Cosmetology Examination
Abnormal skin growth education
An original licensure applicant on or after January 1, 2026 must prove completion of Department-approved abnormal skin growth education, including identifying melanoma, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.
Application and fees
Submit the Department application, required supporting records and fees.
Existing licence
Hold a current esthetician or esthetics teacher licence.
Foreign training
Foreign-country training may require credential evaluation at applicant expense, additional coursework, a 250-hour refresher course, interview, or further information.
Minimum age
At least 16 years old.
Older instructions conflict
The older 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1175.410(d) says: "If an applicant has not submitted an application for licensure within 12 months after taking and passing the examination, the applicant must retake and pass the examination prior to being granted a license." The April 16, 2025 application instructions likewise state one year. The effective statute 225 ILCS 410/4-5(e) controls the three-year period.
Remedial training
After three failed Department examinations, provide at least 100 hours of additional cosmetology study; the Department may waive remedial training.
School final exam
Provide a transcript showing a passing grade on the school final examination. This school-specific qualification is a condition, not an identified state licensing examination.
Score application window
225 ILCS 410/4-5(e), effective January 1, 2026, allows three years after notification of passing to apply for licensure; failure to apply within three years requires retaking and passing the examination.
Secondary education
Beyond compulsory school attendance or a high school graduate or recognized equivalent.
Supplemental training
Complete the 1,500-hour cosmetology course with credit for common esthetics coursework shown on the transcript.
Licensure as cosmetologist — licensed nail technician
Illinois Cosmetology Examination
Abnormal skin growth education
An original licensure applicant on or after January 1, 2026 must prove completion of Department-approved abnormal skin growth education, including identifying melanoma, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.
Application and fees
Submit the Department application, required supporting records and fees.
Existing licence
Hold a current nail technician or nail technology teacher licence.
Foreign training
Foreign-country training may require credential evaluation at applicant expense, additional coursework, a 250-hour refresher course, interview, or further information.
Minimum age
At least 16 years old.
Older instructions conflict
The older 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1175.410(d) says: "If an applicant has not submitted an application for licensure within 12 months after taking and passing the examination, the applicant must retake and pass the examination prior to being granted a license." The April 16, 2025 application instructions likewise state one year. The effective statute 225 ILCS 410/4-5(e) controls the three-year period.
Remedial training
After three failed Department examinations, provide at least 100 hours of additional cosmetology study; the Department may waive remedial training.
School final exam
Provide a transcript showing a passing grade on the school final examination. This school-specific qualification is a condition, not an identified state licensing examination.
Score application window
225 ILCS 410/4-5(e), effective January 1, 2026, allows three years after notification of passing to apply for licensure; failure to apply within three years requires retaking and passing the examination.
Secondary education
Beyond compulsory school attendance or a high school graduate or recognized equivalent.
Supplemental training
Complete the 1,500-hour cosmetology course with credit for common nail technology coursework shown on the transcript.
Additional cosmetologist licence from an active cosmetology teacher licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fee
File the additional-licence application and pay the fee; no additional professional licensure requirements under 225 ILCS 410/1-7(c-5).
Existing licence
Hold an active Illinois cosmetology teacher licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration following active military service
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current fee
The rule calls for payment of the current renewal fee.
Inactive status ce
Restoration from inactive status remains subject to 225 ILCS 410/3-7.1 continuing education requirements.
Service
Licence expired during qualifying federal active military service, militia service, or supervised pre-induction training or education.
Service proof
Submit DD-214 and affidavit of qualifying service; statutory lapsed-renewal, reinstatement and restoration fee exemption applies if restoration sought within two years of nondishonourable termination.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fee
Submit renewal application and fee.
Continuing education
14 CE hours within the two years before renewal, except first renewal following original issuance. For teachers and clinic teachers ten of twenty-four hours must be teaching-related.
Course assessments
Online individual-study CE completion may involve course examinations under 1175.1200(c)(6); these unspecified education assessments are conditions.
Domestic violence education
Comply with 1175.1220 domestic violence and sexual assault awareness course requirement; CE waiver may be requested under 1175.1215.
Renewal timing
Renew in the month preceding September 30 expiration: odd years for cosmetologists; even years for teachers and clinic teachers.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration after suspension or revocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board recommendation
Department may restore on written Board recommendation unless investigation and hearing establish restoration is not in the public interest.
Completed discipline
Successfully complete term of suspension or revocation.
Individual order
The individual disciplinary order and Board determination remain applicant conditions; 225 ILCS 410/4-17 does not name a licensing examination.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration — five years or more, documented lawful practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fee
Submit application and required fee.
Continuing education
14 CE hours within preceding two years.
Lawful practice
At least twenty-four months of licensed practice in another jurisdiction within five preceding years, verified by three clients, coworkers or owners for cosmetologists; three students, coworkers or school owners for teachers.
Licence certification
Provide certification from the jurisdiction authorizing the practice.
Prior licence
Licence expired for five years or more; 1175.430 also expressly covers cosmetologist inactive status for five years or more.
Questionnaire
Submit completed Restoration Questionnaire.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration — five years or more without qualifying practice
Illinois Cosmetology Examination
Alternative refresher
May submit successful completion of a 250-hour refresher instead of examination.
Continuing education
The refresher or examination excuses fourteen hours of CE under the rule; comply with the remaining subsection (b) application requirements.
Exam failure
If the examination is attempted and failed, the licence cannot be restored until the examination is passed.
Exam window
If using examination, pass within two years before or two years after the restoration application.
Prior licence
Expired or inactive at least five years and cannot show qualifying licensed practice or jurisdiction certification under 1175.430(b)(1)(A)-(B).
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.
Restoration or reactivation — less than five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fee
Submit restoration application and required restoration or current renewal fee.
Continuing education
14 CE hours within the preceding two years.
Inactive status
Inactive-status restoration follows 225 ILCS 410/3-7.1; no practice while inactive.
Prior licence
Expired or inactive for less than five years.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Licensure by examination — cosmetology school graduate
Illinois Cosmetology Examination
Abnormal skin growth education
An original licensure applicant on or after January 1, 2026 must prove completion of Department-approved abnormal skin growth education, including identifying melanoma, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.
Application and fees
Submit the Department application, required supporting records and fees.
Cosmetology training
Graduate from a licensed cosmetology school: 1,500 hours over at least eight months. Up to 1,000 hours of licensed barber-school training may be accepted by the school.
Foreign training
Foreign-country training may require credential evaluation at applicant expense, additional coursework, a 250-hour refresher course, interview, or further information.
Minimum age
At least 16 years old.
Older instructions conflict
The older 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1175.410(d) says: "If an applicant has not submitted an application for licensure within 12 months after taking and passing the examination, the applicant must retake and pass the examination prior to being granted a license." The April 16, 2025 application instructions likewise state one year. The effective statute 225 ILCS 410/4-5(e) controls the three-year period.
Remedial training
After three failed Department examinations, provide at least 100 hours of additional cosmetology study; the Department may waive remedial training.
School final exam
Provide a transcript showing a passing grade on the school final examination. This school-specific qualification is a condition, not an identified state licensing examination.
Score application window
225 ILCS 410/4-5(e), effective January 1, 2026, allows three years after notification of passing to apply for licensure; failure to apply within three years requires retaking and passing the examination.
Secondary education
Beyond compulsory school attendance or a high school graduate or recognized equivalent.

Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Awareness Education Sponsor

Department approval of an education provider serving cosmetology licensees; applicant programme and instructor qualifications are conditions.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation · Application information

Initial education sponsor approval
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Applicant scope
An eligible entity providing approved courses to cosmetology licensees.
Education assessments
Course examinations, instructor certificates, other-profession licences and training qualifications are conditions, not cosmetology licensing examinations.
Official qualifications
Section 1175.1220 Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Awareness Education a) No domestic violence and sexual assault awareness organization, accredited university or college, industry or trade association, corporate salon, franchise salon, independent salon, vocational or technical school, cosmetology school, esthetics school, nail technology school, hair braiding school or other entity shall offer or conduct a domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education course as a CE program for cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians and hair braiders as provided in Sections 3-7, 3A-6, 3C-8 and 3E-5 of the Act without first being approved and authorized by the Division as a domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education sponsor, except as provided in subsection (h). No CE sponsor approved under Section 1175.1200 shall offer or conduct a domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education program without also complying with this Section. b) A domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education sponsor application shall be filed with the Division to be approved as a sponsor. The application shall include: 1) A copy of the Certificate of Attendance, which shall include the following information: A) Sponsor name and address; B) Place for insertion of the sponsor registration number. The sponsor registration number must appear on all issued Certificates of Attendance; C) Course title and place for insertion of the date of the course. The date of the course must appear on all issued Certificates of Attendance; D) Number of hours awarded (1 hour); and E) Place for insertion of the participant's name and license number. The participant's name and license number must appear on all issued Certificates of Attendance. 2) The course outline, including evidence of appropriate facilities, instructor qualifications and content of the course. 3) Name, address, telephone number, and email address of the contact person responsible for all recordkeeping. 4) Certification that the sponsor will comply with all sponsor requirements set forth in this Section. 5) The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100. c) The 1-hour domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education course must, at a minimum, include the following subject areas: 1) Providing basic information about domestic violence and sexual assault, including definitions, factual information, statistics, types of abuse, behaviors, victim-blaming, shaming, abusers, barriers for victims leaving their abusers or seeking help, and confidentiality issues; 2) Placing, within the context of a cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology or hair braiding salon or practice, exposure to and awareness of issues related to domestic violence and sexual assault; and 3) Providing licensees with the tools to assist clients with information about available options, choices and services, including listening to and communicating with clients, recognizing signs of abuse, the proper ways to support a client who is a victim, and connecting clients with available community resources. d) The 1-hour domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education course shall be presented in a classroom setting or in an online classroom presentation. e) The domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education course shall only be presented or taught by a qualified instructor. A qualified instructor is a person who: 1) Holds a current Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professional certificate issued by the Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professionals Board or has completed a 40-hour domestic violence training program offered by the Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professionals Board; 2) Has completed a 40-hour sexual assault training program offered by the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault (ICASA), which is required for all volunteers, staff members and contractual workers who provide victim services or have access to client records at ICASA; 3) Is a post-secondary educator in the field of criminal justice with documented domestic violence and sexual assault awareness training; 4) Is a law enforcement professional (active or retired) with documented domestic violence and sexual assault awareness training; or 5) Holds a certificate or other credential or has completed a training program that is deemed by the Division to be substantially similar to that described in this subsection (e). f) A CE sponsor approved under Section 1175.1200 or an industry or trade association may contract with an approved domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education sponsor to offer or conduct a domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education course without obtaining its own sponsor approval under this Section. g) A domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education sponsor approved under this Section is not required to additionally obtain a CE sponsor approval under Section 1175.1200 unless it intends to offer and conduct other types of CE courses. h) Pursuant to Sections 3-7, 3A-6, 3C-8 and 3E-5 of the Act, any cosmetologist, esthetician, nail technician or hair braider who completed a 1-hour domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education course from a domestic violence and sexual assault awareness organization between March 12 and March 15, 2016 shall satisfy the course completion requirement of the Act, notwithstanding any provision of this Part. In the same manner, any cosmetologist, esthetician, nail technician or hair braider who completed a 1-hour domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education course from a domestic violence and sexual assault awareness organization between March 25 and March 27, 2017 shall satisfy the course completion requirement of the Act, notwithstanding any provision of this Part. i) All references to cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians and hair braiders in this Section shall be deemed to include cosmetology teachers, cosmetology clinic teachers, esthetics teachers, nail technology teachers and hair braiding teachers. j) The Department will maintain a list of all approved domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education course instructors on the Department's website and will note whether the education course has an associated cost.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Education sponsor renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing sponsor
Hold the corresponding approved sponsor registration; lapsed for restoration.
Fee and application
CE sponsor renewal fee is $100 every two years and lapse restoration is $250; domestic violence sponsor renewal is $50 every two years and lapse restoration is $100. Submit required application and fee.
Programme compliance
Maintain the corresponding programme, instructor and recordkeeping requirements in 1175.1220.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Education sponsor restoration after lapse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing sponsor
Hold the corresponding approved sponsor registration; lapsed for restoration.
Fee and application
CE sponsor renewal fee is $100 every two years and lapse restoration is $250; domestic violence sponsor renewal is $50 every two years and lapse restoration is $100. Submit required application and fee.
Programme compliance
Maintain the corresponding programme, instructor and recordkeeping requirements in 1175.1220.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Cosmetology School

Private cosmetology school licence; facility approval is an applicant condition, not a profession licensing examination.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation · Application information

School licence expansion
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing school
Previously licensed cosmetology school.
Inspection
Where the rule requires inspection and written approval, obtain it before operating at the new or expanded premises.
Notice
Provide the notices, application, supporting documents and fee required by 1175.560.
Official procedure
Section 1175.560 Expansion a) Written notice shall be given to the Division 30 days prior to any expansion of a licensed school. b) Off-Site Classrooms 1) When the expansion will result in an off-site classroom location, a completed school application must be submitted along with: A) A detailed 8½ x 11 inch floor plan that is: i) drawn to scale; ii) shows dimensions; iii) that has all areas labeled; iv) has all fixtures shown; and v) demonstrates compliance with the requirements of Section 1175.505; B) A copy of: i) a lease showing at least a 1-year commitment to the use of the school site, the address of the school site, the name of the lessor, and the name of the lessee; or ii) the certification of ownership of the proposed school site; C) An official fire inspection report, from the local fire inspection authority conducted within 6 months prior to application, giving approval for use of the site as a classroom location; D) A statement from the school owner outlining the purpose of the classroom location; E) A listing of any and all additional teachers who will be added to the teaching staff as a result of the expansion; and F) The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100. 2) An off-site classroom location is defined as a separate classroom, not continuously joined, that is located within 5 miles of the main school site that serves to provide adequate space in which to train an overflow of students. A clinic may not be operated at an off-site classroom location. A school may establish only 1 off-site classroom location. All identifying signs and materials must reflect the name of the main school. c) When an on-site expansion is to accommodate an increased enrollment, a completed school application shall be submitted along with: 1) A detailed 8½ x 11 inch floor plan of the entire site that has dimensions and demonstrates meeting the requirements of Section 1175.505; 2) A statement from the school owner outlining the purpose of the expansion; 3) A listing of any and all additional teachers who will be added to the teaching staff as a result of the expansion; and 4) The required inspection fee. d) Upon receipt of the items listed in subsections (b) and (c), the Division shall inspect the expansion site to determine compliance with this Part. If any changes affecting the items in subsections (b) and (c) are made prior to inspection, the school owner must notify the Division in writing. The site shall not be used until such inspection has occurred and the owner has received written notification of approval from the Division. Approval will be granted if all of the requirements of this Subpart E have been met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Initial school licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application item 1
A detailed 8½ x 11 inch floor plan that is: A) drawn to scale; B) shows dimensions; C) has all areas labeled; D) has all fixtures shown; and E) demonstrates compliance with the requirements of Section 1175.505;
Application item 10
A copy of the school's official transcript for each program that complies with the requirements of Section 1175.530;
Application item 11
A Commitment Statement, as provided in the licensure application packet, signed and dated by the school's chief administrative officer; and
Application item 12
The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100.
Application item 2
A copy of: A) a lease showing at least a 1-year commitment to the use of the school site, the address of the school site, the name of the lessor and the name of the lessee; or B) certification of ownership of the proposed school site;
Application item 3
If the owner is a corporation, a filed copy of the Articles of Incorporation; if the owner is a limited liability company, a filed copy of the Articles of Organization; or if the owner is a partnership, a listing of all partners and their current addresses;
Application item 4
If the owner will be conducting business under an assumed name as described in the Assumed Business Name Act [805 ILCS 405], a copy of the application to adopt an assumed name filed with the government office responsible for approving the assumed name;
Application item 5
An official fire inspection report from the local fire inspection authority within 6 months prior to filing an application giving approval for use of the site as a school;
Application item 6
A financial statement indicating sufficient current finances exist to operate the school for at least 3 months. The Division will not accept a bank statement as sufficient proof to meet this requirement. The financial statement shall include reporting cash assets on hand and any liabilities and shall be prepared by either a certified public accountant or a person knowledgeable about the finances of the school. Any financial statement submitted by a person who is not a certified public accountant must contain a signed statement certifying under penalty of perjury that the information is true and accurate based upon inspection of the financial records of the school;
Application item 7
A copy of the official enrollment agreement to be used by the school, which shall be consistent with the requirements of Section 1175.510;
Application item 8
A listing of all teachers, including their teacher license numbers, who will be in the school's employ;
Application item 9
A copy of the curricula that will be followed for each program that meets the requirements of Section 1175.530;
Department inspection
Division inspection and written approval are required before operation or solicitation of student enrolment.
Programs
Curriculum, licensed teachers, floor plan, facilities and school records must satisfy Subpart E.
Public school exceptions
Private-school ownership, lease, fire inspection and financial documentation requirements apply.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

School licence name change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing school
Previously licensed cosmetology school.
Inspection
Where the rule requires inspection and written approval, obtain it before operating at the new or expanded premises.
Notice
Provide the notices, application, supporting documents and fee required by 1175.555.
Official procedure
Section 1175.555 Change of Name When changing the name of a licensed school, a written request for a name change, along with supporting documentation and the required fee specified in Section 1175.100, shall be submitted 30 days in advance of any name change. The Division shall then issue an updated license. At the time of the change of name, all identifying signs and materials must be changed to conform to the new name on the school license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Licensure following sale or transfer
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing school
Previously licensed cosmetology school.
Inspection
Where the rule requires inspection and written approval, obtain it before operating at the new or expanded premises.
Notice
Provide the notices, application, supporting documents and fee required by 1175.545.
Official procedure
Section 1175.545 Change of Ownership a) For purposes of this Section, "change of ownership", "sale" or "transfer" of a corporation means the transfer of more than 50% of stock during a 14 day period. For purposes of this Section, "change of ownership", "sale" or "transfer" of a partnership means a change of more than 50% of the partners during a 14 day period. For purposes of this Section, "change of ownership", "sale" or "transfer" of an LLC means a change of more than 50% of the members during a 14 day period. Any change of ownership of a parent business entity that owns the school's owner shall not be considered a change of ownership of the school. b) If a licensed school is to be sold or otherwise transferred, the new owner must notify the Division at least 30 days in advance of the effective date of the transfer of ownership. The notification shall include a signed and dated letter from the pre-transfer owner acknowledging the planned sale or transfer. c) Upon filing notice to the Division, the new owner may continue to operate the school under the previously issued license, provided that the new owner submits an application for licensure with the Division within 30 days after the effective date of the transfer of ownership by mailing to the Division: 1) A signed and completed school application; 2) A detailed 8½ x 11 inch floor plan that is: A) drawn to scale; B) shows dimensions; C) has all areas labeled; D) has all fixtures shown; and E) demonstrates compliance with the requirements of Section 1175.505; 3) A copy of: A) a lease agreement showing at least a 1-year commitment to the use of the school site, the name of the lessor and the name of the lessee; or B) the certification of school site ownership; 4) A copy of the enrollment agreement that will be utilized by the new owner; 5) A copy of curricula that will be used by the new owner; 6) A sample copy of the school's official transcript; 7) A Commitment Statement, as provided in the licensure application packet, signed and dated by the school's chief administrative officer; 8) List of all the names, addresses and current status of all schools in which the applicant has previously owned any interest, and a declaration as to whether any of these schools were ever denied accreditation or licensing or lost accreditation or licensing from any government body or accrediting agency; 9) If the new owner is a corporation, limited liability company, or partnership, a copy of the following: A) if the owner is a domestic corporation, a filed copy of the Articles of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State or, in the case of a foreign corporation, a filed copy of the Authority to Transact Business in Illinois accepted by and filed with the Secretary of State; B) if the owner is a domestic limited liability company, a copy of the Articles of Organization that were filed with the Secretary of State or, if the owner is a foreign limited liability company, a copy of the Application for Admission to Transact Business as a Foreign Limited Liability Company accepted by and filed with the Secretary of State; or C) if the owner is a partnership, a listing of all partners and their addresses; 10) If the new owner will be conducting business under an assumed name as described in the Assumed Business Name Act [805 ILCS 405], a copy of the application to adopt an assumed name filed with the government office responsible for approving the assumed name; 11) An official fire inspection report by the local fire inspection authority conducted within 6 months prior to application approving the school site; 12) A financial statement indicating sufficient current finances exist to operate the school for at least 3 months. The Division will not accept a bank statement as sufficient proof to meet this requirement. This financial statement shall include reporting cash assets on hand and any liabilities and shall be prepared by either a certified public accountant or a person knowledgeable about the finances of the school. Any financial statement submitted by a person who is not a certified public accountant must contain a signed statement certifying under penalty of perjury that the information is true and accurate based upon inspection of the financial records of the school; 13) If a name change is to also occur, all documents submitted must include the new name, and the new owner must submit a sample of the new school seal and a photo of the new school sign; and 14) The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100. d) Once the items listed in subsection (c) have been received, the Division shall conduct an inspection prior to approval of the change of ownership. Approval will be granted if all of the requirements of Subpart E have been met. e) If the new owner fails to submit a new application within 30 days, or if the Division does not approve the school, the school shall remain closed until final Division approval is received. f) The new owner is responsible for ensuring that the school is in compliance withall current provisions of the Act and this Part.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

School licence at a new site
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing school
Previously licensed cosmetology school.
Inspection
Where the rule requires inspection and written approval, obtain it before operating at the new or expanded premises.
Notice
Provide the notices, application, supporting documents and fee required by 1175.550.
Official procedure
Section 1175.550 Change of Location a) When the location of a licensed school is to be changed, the school owner shall submit to the Division the following: 1) Written notice to the Division at least 30 days in advance of the school site change; 2) A signed and completed school application; 3) A detailed 8½ x 11 inch floor plan that is: A) drawn to scale; B) shows dimensions; C) has all areas labeled; D) has all fixtures shown; and E) demonstrates compliance with the requirements of Section 1175.505; 4) A copy of: A) a lease agreement showing at least a 1-year commitment, the address of the school site, the name of the lessor, and the name of the lessee; or B) the certification of ownership of school site; 5) An official fire inspection report by the local fire inspection authority conducted within 6 months prior to application, approving the site; and 6) The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100. b) Once the items listed in subsection (a) have been received, the Division shall inspect the premises to determine compliance with this Part. If any changes affecting the items in subsection (a) are made prior to inspection, the school owner must notify the Division in writing. School operations shall not commence at the new location nor may the school in any way solicit student enrollment until the owners have received written notice of approval from the Division. Approval will be granted if all of the requirements of this Subpart E have been met. c) If the change of location is due to natural destruction of, or other severe damage to, the original premises due to circumstances beyond the control of the owner, a temporary site may be used to teach theory classes only. 1) The temporary site must be inspected prior to its use and must possess light, ventilation and tables and chairs for the number of students in a classroom and must be clean. 2) The temporary site may be used for a period of 2 months. The 2-month period can be extended for good cause. Good cause includes, but is not limited to, unexpected delays in construction, delays in lease arrangements, or delays in equipment delivery.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

School licence renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Licence
Hold this cosmetology school licence.
Renewal
School licences expire September 30 of even years; apply in preceding month and pay the school renewal fee. Professional CE certification clauses concern individual licensees, not schools.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

School licence restoration after suspension or revocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board recommendation
Department restoration on written Board recommendation, unless restoration is found not in the public interest after investigation and hearing.
Completed discipline
Term of suspension or revocation successfully completed.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Cosmetology School — Public Schools

Public cosmetology school licence, including government-operated schools subject to applicable statutory exceptions.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation · Application information

School licence expansion
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing school
Previously licensed cosmetology school.
Inspection
Where the rule requires inspection and written approval, obtain it before operating at the new or expanded premises.
Notice
Provide the notices, application, supporting documents and fee required by 1175.560.
Official procedure
Section 1175.560 Expansion a) Written notice shall be given to the Division 30 days prior to any expansion of a licensed school. b) Off-Site Classrooms 1) When the expansion will result in an off-site classroom location, a completed school application must be submitted along with: A) A detailed 8½ x 11 inch floor plan that is: i) drawn to scale; ii) shows dimensions; iii) that has all areas labeled; iv) has all fixtures shown; and v) demonstrates compliance with the requirements of Section 1175.505; B) A copy of: i) a lease showing at least a 1-year commitment to the use of the school site, the address of the school site, the name of the lessor, and the name of the lessee; or ii) the certification of ownership of the proposed school site; C) An official fire inspection report, from the local fire inspection authority conducted within 6 months prior to application, giving approval for use of the site as a classroom location; D) A statement from the school owner outlining the purpose of the classroom location; E) A listing of any and all additional teachers who will be added to the teaching staff as a result of the expansion; and F) The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100. 2) An off-site classroom location is defined as a separate classroom, not continuously joined, that is located within 5 miles of the main school site that serves to provide adequate space in which to train an overflow of students. A clinic may not be operated at an off-site classroom location. A school may establish only 1 off-site classroom location. All identifying signs and materials must reflect the name of the main school. c) When an on-site expansion is to accommodate an increased enrollment, a completed school application shall be submitted along with: 1) A detailed 8½ x 11 inch floor plan of the entire site that has dimensions and demonstrates meeting the requirements of Section 1175.505; 2) A statement from the school owner outlining the purpose of the expansion; 3) A listing of any and all additional teachers who will be added to the teaching staff as a result of the expansion; and 4) The required inspection fee. d) Upon receipt of the items listed in subsections (b) and (c), the Division shall inspect the expansion site to determine compliance with this Part. If any changes affecting the items in subsections (b) and (c) are made prior to inspection, the school owner must notify the Division in writing. The site shall not be used until such inspection has occurred and the owner has received written notification of approval from the Division. Approval will be granted if all of the requirements of this Subpart E have been met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Initial school licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application item 1
A detailed 8½ x 11 inch floor plan; A) drawn to scale; B) shows dimensions; C) has all areas labeled; D) has all fixtures shown; and E) demonstrates compliance with the requirements of Section 1175.505;
Application item 2
A listing of all teachers, including their teacher license numbers, who will be in the school's employ;
Application item 3
A copy of the curricula that will be followed for each program that meets the requirements of this Part;
Application item 4
A copy of the school's official transcript for each program that meets the requirements of this Part;
Application item 5
A Commitment Statement, as provided in the licensure application packet, signed and dated by the school's chief administrative officer; and
Application item 6
The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100.
Department inspection
Division inspection and written approval are required before operation or solicitation of student enrolment.
Programs
Curriculum, licensed teachers, floor plan, facilities and school records must satisfy Subpart E.
Public school exceptions
Applicable public-school lease and finance exemptions and 225 ILCS 410/3B-16 waiver discretion apply where the statutory public-school conditions are met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

School licence name change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing school
Previously licensed cosmetology school.
Inspection
Where the rule requires inspection and written approval, obtain it before operating at the new or expanded premises.
Notice
Provide the notices, application, supporting documents and fee required by 1175.555.
Official procedure
Section 1175.555 Change of Name When changing the name of a licensed school, a written request for a name change, along with supporting documentation and the required fee specified in Section 1175.100, shall be submitted 30 days in advance of any name change. The Division shall then issue an updated license. At the time of the change of name, all identifying signs and materials must be changed to conform to the new name on the school license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Licensure following sale or transfer
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing school
Previously licensed cosmetology school.
Inspection
Where the rule requires inspection and written approval, obtain it before operating at the new or expanded premises.
Notice
Provide the notices, application, supporting documents and fee required by 1175.545.
Official procedure
Section 1175.545 Change of Ownership a) For purposes of this Section, "change of ownership", "sale" or "transfer" of a corporation means the transfer of more than 50% of stock during a 14 day period. For purposes of this Section, "change of ownership", "sale" or "transfer" of a partnership means a change of more than 50% of the partners during a 14 day period. For purposes of this Section, "change of ownership", "sale" or "transfer" of an LLC means a change of more than 50% of the members during a 14 day period. Any change of ownership of a parent business entity that owns the school's owner shall not be considered a change of ownership of the school. b) If a licensed school is to be sold or otherwise transferred, the new owner must notify the Division at least 30 days in advance of the effective date of the transfer of ownership. The notification shall include a signed and dated letter from the pre-transfer owner acknowledging the planned sale or transfer. c) Upon filing notice to the Division, the new owner may continue to operate the school under the previously issued license, provided that the new owner submits an application for licensure with the Division within 30 days after the effective date of the transfer of ownership by mailing to the Division: 1) A signed and completed school application; 2) A detailed 8½ x 11 inch floor plan that is: A) drawn to scale; B) shows dimensions; C) has all areas labeled; D) has all fixtures shown; and E) demonstrates compliance with the requirements of Section 1175.505; 3) A copy of: A) a lease agreement showing at least a 1-year commitment to the use of the school site, the name of the lessor and the name of the lessee; or B) the certification of school site ownership; 4) A copy of the enrollment agreement that will be utilized by the new owner; 5) A copy of curricula that will be used by the new owner; 6) A sample copy of the school's official transcript; 7) A Commitment Statement, as provided in the licensure application packet, signed and dated by the school's chief administrative officer; 8) List of all the names, addresses and current status of all schools in which the applicant has previously owned any interest, and a declaration as to whether any of these schools were ever denied accreditation or licensing or lost accreditation or licensing from any government body or accrediting agency; 9) If the new owner is a corporation, limited liability company, or partnership, a copy of the following: A) if the owner is a domestic corporation, a filed copy of the Articles of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State or, in the case of a foreign corporation, a filed copy of the Authority to Transact Business in Illinois accepted by and filed with the Secretary of State; B) if the owner is a domestic limited liability company, a copy of the Articles of Organization that were filed with the Secretary of State or, if the owner is a foreign limited liability company, a copy of the Application for Admission to Transact Business as a Foreign Limited Liability Company accepted by and filed with the Secretary of State; or C) if the owner is a partnership, a listing of all partners and their addresses; 10) If the new owner will be conducting business under an assumed name as described in the Assumed Business Name Act [805 ILCS 405], a copy of the application to adopt an assumed name filed with the government office responsible for approving the assumed name; 11) An official fire inspection report by the local fire inspection authority conducted within 6 months prior to application approving the school site; 12) A financial statement indicating sufficient current finances exist to operate the school for at least 3 months. The Division will not accept a bank statement as sufficient proof to meet this requirement. This financial statement shall include reporting cash assets on hand and any liabilities and shall be prepared by either a certified public accountant or a person knowledgeable about the finances of the school. Any financial statement submitted by a person who is not a certified public accountant must contain a signed statement certifying under penalty of perjury that the information is true and accurate based upon inspection of the financial records of the school; 13) If a name change is to also occur, all documents submitted must include the new name, and the new owner must submit a sample of the new school seal and a photo of the new school sign; and 14) The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100. d) Once the items listed in subsection (c) have been received, the Division shall conduct an inspection prior to approval of the change of ownership. Approval will be granted if all of the requirements of Subpart E have been met. e) If the new owner fails to submit a new application within 30 days, or if the Division does not approve the school, the school shall remain closed until final Division approval is received. f) The new owner is responsible for ensuring that the school is in compliance withall current provisions of the Act and this Part.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

School licence at a new site
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing school
Previously licensed cosmetology school.
Inspection
Where the rule requires inspection and written approval, obtain it before operating at the new or expanded premises.
Notice
Provide the notices, application, supporting documents and fee required by 1175.550.
Official procedure
Section 1175.550 Change of Location a) When the location of a licensed school is to be changed, the school owner shall submit to the Division the following: 1) Written notice to the Division at least 30 days in advance of the school site change; 2) A signed and completed school application; 3) A detailed 8½ x 11 inch floor plan that is: A) drawn to scale; B) shows dimensions; C) has all areas labeled; D) has all fixtures shown; and E) demonstrates compliance with the requirements of Section 1175.505; 4) A copy of: A) a lease agreement showing at least a 1-year commitment, the address of the school site, the name of the lessor, and the name of the lessee; or B) the certification of ownership of school site; 5) An official fire inspection report by the local fire inspection authority conducted within 6 months prior to application, approving the site; and 6) The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100. b) Once the items listed in subsection (a) have been received, the Division shall inspect the premises to determine compliance with this Part. If any changes affecting the items in subsection (a) are made prior to inspection, the school owner must notify the Division in writing. School operations shall not commence at the new location nor may the school in any way solicit student enrollment until the owners have received written notice of approval from the Division. Approval will be granted if all of the requirements of this Subpart E have been met. c) If the change of location is due to natural destruction of, or other severe damage to, the original premises due to circumstances beyond the control of the owner, a temporary site may be used to teach theory classes only. 1) The temporary site must be inspected prior to its use and must possess light, ventilation and tables and chairs for the number of students in a classroom and must be clean. 2) The temporary site may be used for a period of 2 months. The 2-month period can be extended for good cause. Good cause includes, but is not limited to, unexpected delays in construction, delays in lease arrangements, or delays in equipment delivery.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

School licence renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Licence
Hold this cosmetology school licence.
Renewal
School licences expire September 30 of even years; apply in preceding month and pay the school renewal fee. Professional CE certification clauses concern individual licensees, not schools.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

School licence restoration after suspension or revocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board recommendation
Department restoration on written Board recommendation, unless restoration is found not in the public interest after investigation and hearing.
Completed discipline
Term of suspension or revocation successfully completed.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

barber shop or cosmetology, nail technology, hair braiding or esthetics salon certificate of registration

Registration of a cosmetology salon, mobile salon or other business providing cosmetology services; separate from individual professional licensure.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation · Application information

Initial salon registration — fixed
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application item 1
Ownership structure, such as individual/sole proprietorship, corporation, limited liability company (LLC) or partnership;
Application item 10
If a foreign LLC, a copy of the entire Articles of Organization filed with the jurisdiction where the LLC is organized and a copy of the certificate of authority to transact business in Illinois filed with the Illinois Secretary of State;
Application item 11
If a partnership, a copy of the signed and dated partnership agreement, including the name of the partnership, business address and name of each partner;
Application item 12
If a franchise, a copy of the signed and dated franchise agreement showing that franchisee has been granted the right to use a trade name, trademark, service name, service mark or any other right to the exclusive use of names or symbols;
Application item 13
If using an assumed name, a certificate from the county clerk's office where the assumed name is filed or a certificate from the Illinois Secretary of State showing authorization to transact business under the assumed name;
Application item 14
The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100.
Application item 2
Name, address, email address and telephone number of owner. If a corporation, LLC or partnership, the name, address, email address and telephone number of the chief executive officer (CEO) or managing partner;
Application item 3
Federal employer identification number (FEIN) of owner;
Application item 4
Name, address and telephone number of salon or shop;
Application item 5
Franchise disclosure;
Application item 6
Name and license number of any owner, managing partner or CEO holding an Illinois license in any profession regulated under the Act;
Application item 7
If an Illinois corporation, a copy of the entire Articles of Incorporation as filed with the Illinois Secretary of State;
Application item 8
If an Illinois corporation, a copy of the entire Articles of Incorporation filed with the Illinois Secretary of State;
Application item 9
If an LLC, a copy of the entire Articles of Organization filed with the Illinois Secretary of State;
Business model
Dedicated physical cosmetology salon, kiosk or permanent facility; separate registration per location.
Manager
Unlicensed owner must employ a licensed manager; owner or manager name and licence number posted with registration.
Practice
Registration does not authorize an unlicensed owner to practice cosmetology.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Initial salon registration — mobile
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application item 1
Ownership structure, such as individual/sole proprietorship, corporation, limited liability company (LLC) or partnership;
Application item 10
If a foreign LLC, a copy of the entire Articles of Organization filed with the jurisdiction where the LLC is organized and a copy of the certificate of authority to transact business in Illinois filed with the Illinois Secretary of State;
Application item 11
If a partnership, a copy of the signed and dated partnership agreement, including the name of the partnership, business address and name of each partner;
Application item 12
If a franchise, a copy of the signed and dated franchise agreement showing that franchisee has been granted the right to use a trade name, trademark, service name, service mark or any other right to the exclusive use of names or symbols;
Application item 13
If using an assumed name, a certificate from the county clerk's office where the assumed name is filed or a certificate from the Illinois Secretary of State showing authorization to transact business under the assumed name;
Application item 14
The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100.
Application item 2
Name, address, email address and telephone number of owner. If a corporation, LLC or partnership, the name, address, email address and telephone number of the chief executive officer (CEO) or managing partner;
Application item 3
Federal employer identification number (FEIN) of owner;
Application item 4
Name, address and telephone number of salon or shop;
Application item 5
Franchise disclosure;
Application item 6
Name and license number of any owner, managing partner or CEO holding an Illinois license in any profession regulated under the Act;
Application item 7
If an Illinois corporation, a copy of the entire Articles of Incorporation as filed with the Illinois Secretary of State;
Application item 8
If an Illinois corporation, a copy of the entire Articles of Incorporation filed with the Illinois Secretary of State;
Application item 9
If an LLC, a copy of the entire Articles of Organization filed with the Illinois Secretary of State;
Business model
Mobile cosmetology salon or a business supplying services at facilities it does not own or rent; report the business office. A sole proprietor without employees or contractors who is not operating a mobile salon is outside 225 ILCS 410/3D-5(g).
Manager
Unlicensed owner must employ a licensed manager; owner or manager name and licence number posted with registration.
Practice
Registration does not authorize an unlicensed owner to practice cosmetology.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Initial salon registration — space rental
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application item 1
Ownership structure, such as individual/sole proprietorship, corporation, limited liability company (LLC) or partnership;
Application item 10
If a foreign LLC, a copy of the entire Articles of Organization filed with the jurisdiction where the LLC is organized and a copy of the certificate of authority to transact business in Illinois filed with the Illinois Secretary of State;
Application item 11
If a partnership, a copy of the signed and dated partnership agreement, including the name of the partnership, business address and name of each partner;
Application item 12
If a franchise, a copy of the signed and dated franchise agreement showing that franchisee has been granted the right to use a trade name, trademark, service name, service mark or any other right to the exclusive use of names or symbols;
Application item 13
If using an assumed name, a certificate from the county clerk's office where the assumed name is filed or a certificate from the Illinois Secretary of State showing authorization to transact business under the assumed name;
Application item 14
The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100.
Application item 2
Name, address, email address and telephone number of owner. If a corporation, LLC or partnership, the name, address, email address and telephone number of the chief executive officer (CEO) or managing partner;
Application item 3
Federal employer identification number (FEIN) of owner;
Application item 4
Name, address and telephone number of salon or shop;
Application item 5
Franchise disclosure;
Application item 6
Name and license number of any owner, managing partner or CEO holding an Illinois license in any profession regulated under the Act;
Application item 7
If an Illinois corporation, a copy of the entire Articles of Incorporation as filed with the Illinois Secretary of State;
Application item 8
If an Illinois corporation, a copy of the entire Articles of Incorporation filed with the Illinois Secretary of State;
Application item 9
If an LLC, a copy of the entire Articles of Organization filed with the Illinois Secretary of State;
Business model
Salon renting space to individual licensees; obtain registration for the entire facility or each independent renter obtains registration under 1175.1300(b)(3).
Manager
Unlicensed owner must employ a licensed manager; owner or manager name and licence number posted with registration.
Practice
Registration does not authorize an unlicensed owner to practice cosmetology.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Salon registration name change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing registration
Existing cosmetology salon registration, expired or inactive when restoring.
Required procedure
Section 1175.1320 Change of Name The owner shall file written notice with the Division at least 30 days in advance of the change of name of a salon or shop. The notice shall include the owner's name and the signature, date, FEIN, previous name of salon or shop, address of salon or shop, new name of salon or shop, and effective date of the change. The notice shall be accompanied by the original certificate of registration, a $20 reissuance reprint fee, and, if using an assumed name, a certificate from the county clerk's office where the assumed name is filed or a certificate from the Illinois Secretary of State showing authorization to transact business under the assumed name. The Division shall issue a new certificate of registration with the new name of the salon or shop. The proposed new name must comply with the requirements of Section 1175.1305.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Salon registration following ownership change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing registration
Existing cosmetology salon registration, expired or inactive when restoring.
Required procedure
Section 1175.1315 Change of Ownership a) For purposes of this Section, "change of ownership", "sale" or "transfer" of a corporation means the transfer of more than 50% of stock during a 14-day period. For purposes of this Section, "change of ownership", "sale" or "transfer" of a partnership means a change of more than 50% of the partners during a 14-day period. For purposes of this Section, "change of ownership", "sale" or "transfer" of a limited liability company means a change of more than 50% of the members during a 14-day period. Any change of ownership of a parent business entity that owns the salon's or the shop's owner shall not be considered a change of ownership of the salon or shop. b) If a registered salon or shop is to be sold or otherwise transferred, the new owner must notify the Division in writing at least 30 days in advance of the effective date of the transfer of ownership. The notification shall include a signed and dated letter from the pre-transfer owner acknowledging the planned sale or transfer. c) Upon filing notice to the Division, the new owner may continue to operate the salon or shop under the previously issued registration, provided that the new owner submits an application for a certificate of registration with the Division within 30 days after the effective date of the transfer of ownership in compliance with Sections 1175.1300 and 1175.1305.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Salon registration following relocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing registration
Existing cosmetology salon registration, expired or inactive when restoring.
Required procedure
Section 1175.1310 Change of Location The owner shall file written notice with the Division at least 30 days in advance of the change of location of a salon or shop. The notice shall include the owner's name and signature, date, FEIN, name of salon or shop, previous address of salon or shop, new address of salon or shop, and effective date of the change. The notice shall be accompanied by the original certificate of registration and a $20 reissuance fee. The Division shall issue a new certificate of registration with the new salon or shop address.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Salon registration renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing registration
Existing cosmetology salon registration, expired or inactive when restoring.
Required procedure
Section 1175.1325 Renewal All certificates of registration shall expire on November 30 of even-numbered years. A salon or shop may renew the certificate of registration during the 2 months preceding the expiration date by paying the required fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Salon registration restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing registration
Existing cosmetology salon registration, expired or inactive when restoring.
Required procedure
Section 1175.1330 Restoration An owner seeking restoration of a certificate of registration that has expired or been placed on inactive status shall file written notice with the Division. The notice shall include the owner's name and signature, date, FEIN, name of salon or shop, previous address of salon or shop, current address of salon or shop, and $40 fee. If using an assumed name, the notice shall also include a certificate from the county clerk's office where the assumed name is filed or a certificate from the Illinois Secretary of State showing authorization to transact business under the assumed name.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Abnormal Skin Growth Education Sponsor

Department approval of an education provider serving cosmetology licensees; applicant programme and instructor qualifications are conditions.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation · Application information

Initial education sponsor approval
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Applicant scope
An eligible entity providing approved courses to cosmetology licensees.
Education assessments
Course examinations, instructor certificates, other-profession licences and training qualifications are conditions, not cosmetology licensing examinations.
Official qualifications
Section 1175.1225 Abnormal Skin Growth Education a) The Division may approve programs and providers who complete the application process and comply with the requirements in this Section and provide courses that comply with 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10 of the Act. The Division approves the 1-hour program "Skinny on Skin" by Impact Melanoma, Inc., as a course that fulfills the requirement of abnormal skin growth education to be completed by all new applicants for original licensure and all renewal and restoration applicants under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10 of the Act. b) An abnormal skin growth education sponsor application shall be filed with the Division to be approved as a sponsor. The application shall include: 1) A copy of the Certificate of Attendance, which shall include the following information: A) Sponsor name and address; B) Place for insertion of the sponsor registration number. The sponsor registration number must appear on all issued Certificates of Attendance; C) Course title and place for insertion of the date of the course. The date of the course must appear on all issued Certificates of Attendance. D) Number of hours awarded (1 hour); and E) Place for insertion of the participant's name and license number. The participant's name and license number must appear on all issued Certificates of Attendance. 2) The course outline, including instructor qualifications and content of the course. Instructors shall be licensed physicians and surgeons, and APRNs. 3) Name, address, telephone number, and email address of the contact person responsible for all recordkeeping. 4) Certification that the sponsor will comply with all sponsor requirements set forth in this Section. 5) The required fee set forth in Section 1175.100, which shall be waived if the sponsor offers the course for free to all licensees and agrees to do so in the future. Renewal fees shall also be waived if the sponsor continues to provide the course for free. c) The 1-hour abnormal skin growth education course must, at a minimum, include the following subject areas: 1) Providing basic information about abnormal skin growths, including definitions, factual information, statistics, types of skin growths; 2) Placing, within the context of a cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology or hair braiding salon or barber shop or other practice, awareness of abnormal skin growths; and 3) Providing licensees with the tools to assist clients with information about available options, choices and services, including listening to and communicating with clients, the proper ways to support a client who may have an abnormal skin growth, and connecting clients with available medical resources. d) The 1-hour abnormal skin growth education course shall be presented in a classroom setting or in an online classroom presentation. e) A CE sponsor approved under Section 1175.1200 or an industry or trade association may contract with an approved abnormal skin growth education course sponsor to offer or conduct an abnormal skin growth education course without obtaining its own sponsor approval under this Section. f) An approved sponsor under this Section is not required to additionally obtain a CE sponsor approval under Section 1175.1200 unless it intends to offer and conduct other types of CE courses. g) The Division will maintain a list of all approved abnormal skin growth education sponsors on the Division’s website.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Abnormal skin growth education sponsor renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing sponsor
Hold Division-approved abnormal skin growth education sponsor approval.
Fees
1175.1225(b)(5) provides renewal fee waiver while the sponsor continues providing the course free to all licensees.
Programme compliance
Continue meeting 1175.1225 programme and instructor requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Cosmetology Teacher

Professional teacher licence; holder may practice cosmetology without maintaining a separate active cosmetologist licence.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation · Application information

Teacher licensure by endorsement — United States licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Certifications
Original and current official licence certifications, name-change proof, application and fee.
Existing licence
Current substantially similar cosmetology teacher licence in another United States jurisdiction.
Prior illinois failure
Applies to applicants without a prior failed Illinois licensure examination; the special prior-failure pathway is separately noted.
Skin growth education
An original licensure applicant on or after January 1, 2026 must prove completion of Department-approved abnormal skin growth education, including identifying melanoma, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Teacher licensure by endorsement — foreign country licence
Illinois Cosmetology Examination
Application and fee
Application, fee, name-change proof and foreign-licence documentation.
Cosmetologist exam discretion
1175.420(d)(2) permits the Board to require the cosmetology examination and/or cosmetology teacher examination. The Illinois cosmetologist examination is retained as a leaf. The Board determines which assessment the individual must actually take.
Education
Sealed transcripts and hours; educational evaluation at applicant expense, additional coursework or a 250-hour refresher may be required.
Foreign licence
Current substantially similar foreign cosmetology teacher licence; official original/current certifications and examination descriptions and grades.
Interview
Interview or additional information may be required.
Practice
At least three years of teacher practice after qualification within five preceding years, evidenced by three clients, coworkers, business owners, students or administrators.
Prior failure
1175.420(f) requires a later substantially equivalent passing examination after any Illinois failure; its unspecified slot remains a condition.
Skin growth education
An original licensure applicant on or after January 1, 2026 must prove completion of Department-approved abnormal skin growth education, including identifying melanoma, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.
Unregistered teacher examination
National Instructor Written Examination identified by the Board-hosted teacher guide is not registered in the supplied nationwide context; it remains an applicant condition pending nationwide registration.
Teacher licence conversion from licensed barber teacher — acquiring cosmetologist qualification
Illinois Cosmetology Examination
Application and fee
Application, licence numbers, official transcripts and required fee.
Cosmetologist qualification
Acquire cosmetologist qualification and pass the Illinois cosmetology examination under the applicable conversion requirements.
Existing licence
Hold a current barber teacher licence.
Skin growth education
An original licensure applicant on or after January 1, 2026 must prove completion of Department-approved abnormal skin growth education, including identifying melanoma, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.
Teacher training
Meet 225 ILCS 410/3-4 teacher qualification requirements, subject to applicable credit and 1-14 equivalence discretion.
Training credit
Complete supplemental cosmetology coursework; applicants with at least three years of teacher experience receive credit for common subjects under 225 ILCS 410/3-11.
Unregistered teacher examination
Cosmetology teacher examination (National Instructor Written Examination) is an applicant condition because no supplied nationwide instructor version is registered; a qualifying barber teacher examination is another profession assessment and a condition.
Teacher licence conversion from licensed esthetics teacher — acquiring cosmetologist qualification
Illinois Cosmetology Examination
Application and fee
Application, licence numbers, official transcripts and required fee.
Cosmetologist qualification
Acquire cosmetologist qualification and pass the Illinois cosmetology examination under the applicable conversion requirements.
Existing licence
Hold a current esthetics teacher licence.
Skin growth education
An original licensure applicant on or after January 1, 2026 must prove completion of Department-approved abnormal skin growth education, including identifying melanoma, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.
Teacher training
Meet 225 ILCS 410/3-4 teacher qualification requirements, subject to applicable credit and 1-14 equivalence discretion.
Training credit
Complete supplemental cosmetology coursework; applicants with at least three years of teacher experience receive credit for common subjects under 225 ILCS 410/3-12.
Unregistered teacher examination
Cosmetology teacher examination (National Instructor Written Examination) is an applicant condition because no supplied nationwide instructor version is registered; a qualifying barber teacher examination is another profession assessment and a condition.
Teacher licence conversion from licensed nail technology teacher — acquiring cosmetologist qualification
Illinois Cosmetology Examination
Application and fee
Application, licence numbers, official transcripts and required fee.
Cosmetologist qualification
Acquire cosmetologist qualification and pass the Illinois cosmetology examination under the applicable conversion requirements.
Existing licence
Hold a current nail technology teacher licence.
Skin growth education
An original licensure applicant on or after January 1, 2026 must prove completion of Department-approved abnormal skin growth education, including identifying melanoma, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.
Teacher training
Meet 225 ILCS 410/3-4 teacher qualification requirements, subject to applicable credit and 1-14 equivalence discretion.
Training credit
Complete supplemental cosmetology coursework; applicants with at least three years of teacher experience receive credit for common subjects under 225 ILCS 410/3-12.
Unregistered teacher examination
Cosmetology teacher examination (National Instructor Written Examination) is an applicant condition because no supplied nationwide instructor version is registered; a qualifying barber teacher examination is another profession assessment and a condition.
Restoration following active military service
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current fee
The rule calls for payment of the current renewal fee.
Inactive status ce
Restoration from inactive status remains subject to 225 ILCS 410/3-7.1 continuing education requirements.
Service
Licence expired during qualifying federal active military service, militia service, or supervised pre-induction training or education.
Service proof
Submit DD-214 and affidavit of qualifying service; statutory lapsed-renewal, reinstatement and restoration fee exemption applies if restoration sought within two years of nondishonourable termination.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fee
Submit renewal application and fee.
Continuing education
24 CE hours within the two years before renewal, except first renewal following original issuance. For teachers and clinic teachers ten of twenty-four hours must be teaching-related.
Course assessments
Online individual-study CE completion may involve course examinations under 1175.1200(c)(6); these unspecified education assessments are conditions.
Domestic violence education
Comply with 1175.1220 domestic violence and sexual assault awareness course requirement; CE waiver may be requested under 1175.1215.
Renewal timing
Renew in the month preceding September 30 expiration: odd years for cosmetologists; even years for teachers and clinic teachers.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration after suspension or revocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board recommendation
Department may restore on written Board recommendation unless investigation and hearing establish restoration is not in the public interest.
Completed discipline
Successfully complete term of suspension or revocation.
Individual order
The individual disciplinary order and Board determination remain applicant conditions; 225 ILCS 410/4-17 does not name a licensing examination.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration — five years or more, documented lawful practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fee
Submit application and required fee.
Continuing education
24 CE hours within preceding two years.
Lawful practice
At least twenty-four months of licensed practice in another jurisdiction within five preceding years, verified by three clients, coworkers or owners for cosmetologists; three students, coworkers or school owners for teachers.
Licence certification
Provide certification from the jurisdiction authorizing the practice.
Prior licence
Licence expired for five years or more; 1175.430 also expressly covers cosmetologist inactive status for five years or more.
Questionnaire
Submit completed Restoration Questionnaire.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration or reactivation — less than five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fee
Submit restoration application and required restoration or current renewal fee.
Continuing education
24 CE hours within the preceding two years.
Inactive status
Inactive-status restoration follows 225 ILCS 410/3-7.1; no practice while inactive.
Prior licence
Expired or inactive for less than five years.
Skin growth education
For a licence issued before January 1, 2026, complete approved abnormal skin growth education at the first renewal or restoration application on or after that date, under 225 ILCS 410/1-7.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Illinois Cosmetology Examination

Provider
Continental Testing Services; PSI test centers
Format
Computer-administered multiple-choice examination
Time limit
120 minutes
Passing score
75
Examination outline
  • Salon Safety and Sanitation (32%)
    • Infections
    • Draping for Services
    • Sanitation Procedures
    • Diseases & Disorders
    • Tools, Gloves & Chemicals
    • Health & Safety Regulations
    • Medical Emergencies & Blood
    • Hygiene
  • Analyze & Treat Scalp, Hair, Skin & Nails (11%)
  • Cut & Style Hair (13%)
    • Advising Clients
    • Styling Hair
    • Cutting Hair
    • Thermal Styling & Drying
    • Reducing Bulk
    • Wigs & Extensions
  • Waving & Relaxing (13%)
    • Client Characteristics
    • Perming & Relaxing
    • Product Effects
    • Safety & Sanitation
    • Selecting & Using Products
  • Hair Coloring & Lightening (13%)
    • Client Characteristics
    • Coloring & Lightening
    • Product Effects
    • Safety & Sanitation
    • Selecting & Using Products
  • Nail Services (9%)
    • Implements
    • Artificial Nails
    • Manicures & Pedicures
    • Safety & Sanitation
  • Skin Services (9%)
    • Makeup
    • Selecting & Using Products
    • Removing Unwanted Hair
    • Safety & Sanitation
Examination sources