Alaska Esthetician — Requirements & Free Practice
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Temporary Esthetician License under AS 25.27.244
Licensing authority: Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers
Temporary initial license after examination qualification
All of the following:
- National Esthetics Theory Examination
- Esthetics Practical Proficiency Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Application
- Submit a completed notarized application with original or certified training records and the applicable application and initial license fees. Department approval is required before Prov scheduling.
- Child support
- Applicant is on the child-support agency delinquent-obligor list and otherwise eligible for the underlying license.
- Duration
- One nonextendable temporary license per regular license term, coinciding with its first 150 days. Full-term licensing requires agency release.
- Proficiency
- Pass the school or apprenticeship instructor practical proficiency examination after completing the training; completion must be documented on the affidavit of training.
- Reexamination
- After three or more written failures, complete at least 50 hours of approved theoretical remedial training under a valid student permit before retesting; the application is abandoned if the examination is not retaken at least annually during the three years after the first examination, under 12 AAC 09.075(c)-(d).
- Training
- Meet the ordinary examination route training requirements.
- Written passing score
- The written examination passing grade is 75 percent or above under 12 AAC 09.065(b).
Temporary initial license after waiver qualification
- Board application demand
- You must have passed a written and practical/proficiency examination in another state where you have been licensed or are currently licensed. If you did not pass a written and practical/proficiency examination, you will be required to do so in Alaska before receiving your license.
- Child support
- Applicant is on the child-support agency delinquent-obligor list and otherwise eligible for the underlying license.
- Duration
- One nonextendable temporary license per regular license term, coinciding with its first 150 days. Full-term licensing requires agency release.
- License
- Meet the ordinary waiver requirements: current esthetician license from another state, equivalent training and proof that the licensing state required a written examination.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Alaska Statutes Title 25
AS 25.27.244(d)
- Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers Statutes and Regulations
AS 08.13.100(d)
- Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers Statutes and Regulations
12 AAC 09.105, opening paragraph
- Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers Statutes and Regulations
12 AAC 09.105(1)-(4)
Temporary license during renewal
- Child support
- Applicant is on the child-support agency delinquent-obligor list and otherwise eligible for the underlying license.
- Duration
- One nonextendable temporary license per regular license term, coinciding with its first 150 days. Full-term licensing requires agency release.
- Renewal
- Otherwise satisfy ordinary renewal application and fee requirements.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Alaska Statutes Title 25
AS 25.27.244(d)
- Alaska Centralized Licensing Statutes
AS 08.01.100(a)-(e)
- Alaska Centralized Licensing Regulations
12 AAC 02.940(a)
Esthetician License
License to practice esthetics under AS 08.13.220(5). AS 08.13.100(c) permits limited esthetics licensing by regulation, but the current implementing chapter establishes no separately named limited-esthetician license. Limited esthetics performed under a hairdresser license under AS 08.13.160(f) is an authorization of that other credential.
Licensing authority: Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers · Application information
Conversion of temporary child support license to regular license
- Release
- Child-support services agency issues a release before temporary-license expiration; department issues the initial or renewed ordinary license. Underlying qualifications were required at temporary issuance; no additional examination is specified for conversion.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Alaska Statutes Title 25
AS 25.27.244(d)
- Alaska Centralized Licensing Regulations
12 AAC 02.935(b)
Licensure by examination after apprenticeship
All of the following:
- National Esthetics Theory Examination
- Esthetics Practical Proficiency Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Application
- Submit a completed notarized application with original or certified training records and the applicable application and initial license fees. Department approval is required before Prov scheduling.
- Proficiency
- Pass the school or apprenticeship instructor practical proficiency examination after completing the training; completion must be documented on the affidavit of training.
- Reexamination
- After three or more written failures, complete at least 50 hours of approved theoretical remedial training under a valid student permit before retesting; the application is abandoned if the examination is not retaken at least annually during the three years after the first examination, under 12 AAC 09.075(c)-(d).
- Training
- 350 hours in a Board-approved shop apprenticeship under a licensed esthetics instructor, completed in at least six months and not more than one year under AS 08.13.082(c).
- Written passing score
- The written examination passing grade is 75 percent or above under 12 AAC 09.065(b).
Licensure by examination after approved combined training
All of the following:
- National Esthetics Theory Examination
- Esthetics Practical Proficiency Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Application
- Submit a completed notarized application with original or certified training records and the applicable application and initial license fees. Department approval is required before Prov scheduling.
- Proficiency
- Pass the school or apprenticeship instructor practical proficiency examination after completing the training; completion must be documented on the affidavit of training.
- Reexamination
- After three or more written failures, complete at least 50 hours of approved theoretical remedial training under a valid student permit before retesting; the application is abandoned if the examination is not retaken at least annually during the three years after the first examination, under 12 AAC 09.075(c)-(d).
- Training
- At least 350 hours through a combination of school training and apprenticeship approved by the Board or another licensing jurisdiction under 12 AAC 09.100.
- Written passing score
- The written examination passing grade is 75 percent or above under 12 AAC 09.065(b).
Licensure by examination after school training
All of the following:
- National Esthetics Theory Examination
- Esthetics Practical Proficiency Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Application
- Submit a completed notarized application with original or certified training records and the applicable application and initial license fees. Department approval is required before Prov scheduling.
- Education
- At least 350 hours of esthetics training in an approved school, including the minimum practical operations of 12 AAC 09.163.
- Proficiency
- Pass the school or apprenticeship instructor practical proficiency examination after completing the training; completion must be documented on the affidavit of training.
- Reexamination
- After three or more written failures, complete at least 50 hours of approved theoretical remedial training under a valid student permit before retesting; the application is abandoned if the examination is not retaken at least annually during the three years after the first examination, under 12 AAC 09.075(c)-(d).
- Written passing score
- The written examination passing grade is 75 percent or above under 12 AAC 09.065(b).
Reinstatement after lapse of more than three years
- Lapse
- Submit a completed application with supporting documents of prior Alaska licensure and pay applicable reinstatement fees. The Board exercises the discretion permitted by AS 08.13.140 through 12 AAC 09.930(b), requiring the written examination.
Reinstatement after lapse of no more than three years
- Lapse
- Previously licensed in Alaska; lapse not more than three years; completed application and applicable renewal and delinquent fees.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
Biennial renewal
- Military maintenance
- AS 08.01.100(g) exempts qualifying active-duty licensees in combat zones, danger-pay posts or hazardous-duty areas from maintenance requirements and fees during deployment and for 180 days afterward, subject to its private-practice limitation.
- Renewal
- Submit the signed renewal form, fee, required identifying information and certification of understanding and compliance with AS 08.13 and 12 AAC 09. Licenses expire August 31 of odd-numbered years.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Alaska Centralized Licensing Regulations
12 AAC 02.940(a)
- Alaska Centralized Licensing Statutes
AS 08.01.100(a)-(e)
- Esthetician License Renewal
Renewal page 1, Alaska Law certification
Licensure by waiver of examination
- Board application demand
- AS 08.13.100(d) grants qualifying applicants licensure without examination. The lower-ranked Board application 08-4193, waiver item 3, states: You must have passed a written and practical/proficiency examination in another state where you have been licensed or are currently licensed. If you did not pass a written and practical/proficiency examination, you will be required to do so in Alaska before receiving your license.
- Current license
- Hold a current esthetician license issued by another state and arrange direct official verification.
- Prior examination
- Provide documents that the licensing state required a written examination for licensure. No particular currently offered examination is identified by this prior-license verification requirement; it is applicant evidence, not a named exam leaf.
- Training
- Verify at least 350 hours of equivalent esthetics training under 12 AAC 09.100 and 09.105.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers Statutes and Regulations
AS 08.13.100(d)
- Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers Statutes and Regulations
12 AAC 09.105, opening paragraph
- Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers Statutes and Regulations
12 AAC 09.105(1)-(4)
- Hairdresser or Esthetician License Application
Instructions page 2, waiver item 3
Temporary Esthetician License
Licensing authority: Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers · Application information
Temporary supervised practice after applying for examination
All of the following:
- National Esthetics Theory Examination
- Esthetics Practical Proficiency Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Duration
- 120 days, nonrenewable, no more than one temporary license per practice area.
- Eligibility
- Meet AS 08.13.080(a)(3), (4), or (6) and apply for the esthetics examination; obtain the supervising licensee signature and pay the temporary license fee.
- Exam timing
- The written examination is part of the pending examination route, not a precondition of temporary issuance; practical proficiency is required at completion of the qualifying training.
- Supervision
- Practice under direct supervision and within the physical presence of a licensee in the same area.
Esthetics Practical Proficiency Examination
This assessment does not have a question bank.
Examination sources
- Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers Statutes and Regulations
12 AAC 09.050(a)-(c)
- Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers Statutes and Regulations
12 AAC 09.163(a), esthetics curriculum
- Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers Statutes and Regulations
12 AAC 09.990(a)(11)
- Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers Statutes and Regulations
12 AAC 09.163(c)
National Esthetics Theory Examination
- Provider
- National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); administered by Test Administration companies and States upon approval and authorization of NIC
- Format
- Theory examination of four-option multiple-choice items, only one option correct
- Exam questions
- 110 items, of which 100 are weighted and contribute to the final score
- Time limit
- 90 minutes
Examination outline
SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS (55%) (55%)
- Basic knowledge of microbiology (i.e., bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi)
- Apply knowledge of infection control procedures related to: — Levels of infection control (i.e., sanitation, disinfection, sterilization)
- Apply knowledge of infection control procedures related to: — Methods of infection control (i.e., heat, chemical agents)
- Apply knowledge of safety procedures and guidelines related to: — Standard (Universal) Precautions
- Apply knowledge of safety procedures and guidelines related to: — Blood exposure procedures
- Apply knowledge of safety procedures and guidelines related to: — Safety Data Sheets (SDS) (e.g., manufacturer’s labeling)
- Apply knowledge of safety procedures and guidelines related to: — Handling of chemicals
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of human physiology and anatomy related to: — Cells and their functions
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of human physiology and anatomy related to: — Tissues (i.e., epithelial, connective, nerve, muscular)
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of human physiology and anatomy related to: — Organs and their function (e.g., skin, lungs, heart)
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of human physiology and anatomy related to: — Systems and their functions (e.g., muscular, integumentary, nervous, endocrine, skeletal)
- Demonstrate an understanding of histology and physiology of the skin related to: — Structure and function of the layers of the skin
- Demonstrate an understanding of histology and physiology of the skin related to: — Structure and function of the glands
- Demonstrate an understanding of histology and physiology of the skin related to: — Functions of the skin (e.g., protection, temperature regulation, absorption)
- Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Disorders of the sebaceous gland (e.g., acne, milia, seborrhea)
- Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Disorders of the sudoriferous gland (e.g., hyperhidrosis, bromhydrosis, anhidrosis)
- Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Contagious diseases (e.g., bacterial conjunctivitis, herpes simplex, tinea)
- Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Skin inflammations (e.g., dermatitis, eczema, rosacea)
- Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Skin pigmentation (i.e., hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation)
- Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Skin growths (e.g., skin tags, moles, keratoma)
- Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Skin cancers (i.e., basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma)
- Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Primary and secondary skin lesions
- Understanding function and composition of the hair related to: — Structure of the hair and its follicle
- Understanding function and composition of the hair related to: — Growth cycles
- Understanding function and composition of the hair related to: — Abnormal hair growth (e.g., hirsutism, hypertrichosis)
- Understanding basic chemistry as related to: — Ingredients
- Understanding basic chemistry as related to: — Labeling
- Understanding basic chemistry as related to: — Function (e.g., hydration, protection, cleanse)
- Understanding basic chemistry as related to: — Acidity/Alkalinity (i.e., pH)
SKIN CARE AND SERVICES (45%) (45%)
- Demonstrate an understanding of performing a client consultation and documentation (e.g., health history, intake form, consultation chart, physician release) — Apply knowledge of client protection (i.e., draping of head and body)
- Demonstrate an understanding of performing a client consultation and documentation (e.g., health history, intake form, consultation chart, physician release) — Skin analysis (e.g., Fitzpatrick skin types/conditions/characteristics)
- Demonstrate an understanding of performing a client consultation and documentation (e.g., health history, intake form, consultation chart, physician release) — Contraindications for skin services
- Demonstrate an understanding of performing a client consultation and documentation (e.g., health history, intake form, consultation chart, physician release) — Treatment protocol
- Demonstrate an understanding of basic facial procedures
- Demonstrate an understanding of cleansing procedures
- Demonstrate an understanding of steaming procedures
- Demonstrate an understanding of exfoliation procedures (i.e., chemical, mechanical/manual)
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of massage movements
- Demonstrate an understanding of methods of extraction
- Demonstrate an understanding of the functions and applications of masks related to clay/mud (e.g., cream, gel, clay/mud)
- Demonstrate an understanding of the conclusion of facial services: — Treat/moisturize (e.g., treatment cream, serum)
- Demonstrate an understanding of the conclusion of facial services: — Sun protection
- Demonstrate an understanding of the conclusion of facial services: — Home care (i.e., after care)
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the use of electrical equipment used in skin services
- Demonstrate an understanding of makeup as related to: — Principles (e.g., color theory)
- Demonstrate an understanding of makeup as related to: — Product selection (e.g., lipstick, foundation)
- Demonstrate an understanding of makeup as related to: — Application (e.g., contouring, highlighting, blending)
- Demonstrate an understanding of makeup as related to: — Safety (e.g., bracing)
- Demonstrate an understanding of makeup as related to: — Infection control (e.g., disposables, disinfection of tools)
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of other services related to: — Facial services (e.g., aromatherapy, pre- and post-surgical/medical treatments, ultrasonic)
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of other services related to: — Body treatments (body wraps, body scrubs, sunless tanning)
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of other services related to: — Eyelash and eyebrow services (e.g., lash and brow tinting, artificial lashes, lash lifting/perming)
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of other services related to: — Demonstrate an understanding of hair removal methods and procedures (i.e., waxing, tweezing)
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of other services related to: — Wellness programs
- Demonstrates basic knowledge of advanced topics and treatments (e.g., dermaplaning, nano infusion, microdermabrasion)
Examination sources
- NIC National Esthetics Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB)
Content Outline — Domain Details paragraph (scope and percentages)
- NIC National Esthetics Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB)
Content Outline — Scientific Concepts domain heading
- NIC National Esthetics Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB)
Content Outline — Skin Care and Services domain heading
- NIC National Esthetics Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB)
Content Outline — last Skin Care and Services item
- NIC National Esthetics Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB)
Content Outline — Domain Details paragraph
- NIC National Esthetics Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB)
Sample Questions — introduction
- NIC National Esthetics Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB)
CIB header — effective and revision dates
- NIC National Esthetics Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB)
CIB introduction — time allowed
- NIC — NIC Exam Types
NIC Exam Types page — administration paragraph
- NIC — Examination Information
Examination Information page — Candidate Information Bulletins paragraph
- NIC Candidate Information Bulletin Selection (linked from nictesting.org)
CIB selection application — Exam Name list entry "Esthetics"