Louisiana Esthetician — Requirements & Free Practice
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Registered Teacher of Esthetics
Licensing authority: Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology · Application information
Annual renewal while actively practicing
- Continuing Education
- At least sixteen hours in a Board-approved seminar every two years; active reinstatement/renewal requires completion within the preceding 24 months.
- Deadline
- Renew on or before the individual birth date; expiration is thirty days after the birth date if not renewed.
- Fees
- Pay applicable annual renewal fees.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- R.S. 37:590 A-C
R.S. 37:590 A-C
- LAC 46:XXXI §505, C
LAC 46:XXXI §505, C
Initial teacher registration — Possess an esthetics instructor license issued by another state in lieu of the 500 hour teacher training course.
- Experience
- At least twelve months active esthetics practice before beginning the instructor course.
- General Education
- High school diploma or equivalent as determined by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.
- Other Examination Slots
- The statute requires the examination prescribed by the Board; LAC §309 identifies written and practical examinations but does not identify a separate currently offered teacher written examination. The unidentifiable written slot is an applicant condition.
- Practice Credential
- Possess an esthetics or cosmetology certificate.
- Teacher Education
- Possess an esthetics instructor license issued by another state in lieu of the 500-hour teacher-training course.
Instructor licensure by reciprocity — United States jurisdiction
All of the following:
- Louisiana Esthetician State Exam
- Esthetician Instructor Practical (assessment without a question bank)
- Foreign Approval
- Provide verification of current instructor licensure.
- National Slot
- LAC §509 C names the national examination administered by the Board without identifying an offered instructor examination by name; this unresolved identity is an applicant condition, not a substitute Esthetics Theory leaf.
- Practical Waiver
- Prior passing practical examination administered by the transferring jurisdiction may excuse sitting the Board practical examination.
- Prior License
- Active instructor license in the applicable foreign jurisdiction, supporting documents and fees.
- State Examination
- Pass the Louisiana state examination.
Renew after maintaining active practice through a foreign jurisdiction license
- Board Expired License Instruction
- Board restoration instructions say: In accordance with Louisiana Revised Statute 37:590, any cosmetologist, manicurist, esthetician or instructor whose license has expired for a minimum of 3 years (36 months) is required to take an examination. The Board has elected to give a 25 question multiple-choice exam. The examination contains questions on general knowledge based on your curriculum of licensure as well as subjects contained in the Administrative Rules Book (Gold Book). The statutory maintained-active-practice exception controls; the Board expired-license instruction remains visible as an applicant condition.
- Continuing Education
- At least sixteen hours in a Board-approved seminar every two years; active reinstatement/renewal requires completion within the preceding 24 months.
- Fees
- Pay applicable renewal/restoration fees.
- Foreign License
- A Louisiana registrant maintaining a practice license or registration outside Louisiana is deemed to have maintained active practice during that foreign license term (R.S. 37:590 C).
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- R.S. 37:590 C
R.S. 37:590 C
- R.S. 37:590 A-C
R.S. 37:590 A-C
Instructor licensure by reciprocity — foreign country or territory
All of the following:
- Louisiana Esthetician State Exam
- Esthetician Instructor Practical (assessment without a question bank)
- Foreign Approval
- Board approval is required for foreign-country applicants under LAC §309 A(6).
- National Slot
- LAC §509 C names the national examination administered by the Board without identifying an offered instructor examination by name; this unresolved identity is an applicant condition, not a substitute Esthetics Theory leaf.
- Practical Waiver
- Prior passing practical examination administered by the transferring jurisdiction may excuse sitting the Board practical examination.
- Prior License
- Active instructor license in the applicable foreign jurisdiction, supporting documents and fees.
- State Examination
- Pass the Louisiana state examination.
Return after more than three years retired from practice
- Board Instructions
- The Board page describes expiration for a minimum of three years (36 months); the individual licensing FAQ says more than three years. These instructions are applicant conditions; the statute uses retirement for more than three years.
- Brush Up Course
- An approved-school brush-up course may facilitate renewal; it is not an exam alternative.
- Continuing Education
- At least sixteen hours in a Board-approved seminar every two years; active reinstatement/renewal requires completion within the preceding 24 months.
- Fees
- Pay applicable restoration fees.
- Retirement
- More than three years retired from authorized practice; show fitness through the short-form restoration examination.
Military recognition of an existing occupational license
- Examination Discretion
- The Board may require the identified state jurisprudential examination under R.S. 37:3651 E.
- Fitness
- Meet applicable good-standing, criminal-history, prior revocation/surrender and pending-complaint restrictions; pay applicable fees.
- Military Connection
- Qualifying member of the military, assigned Department of Defense civilian employee, spouse or dependent; Louisiana assignment or legal residence as specified by R.S. 37:3651. Dishonorable-discharge exclusions apply.
- Ordinary Reciprocity Demand
- The ordinary reciprocal rule also states: C.If the reciprocity applicant has not taken and received a passing score on the national examination administered by the board or on a practical examination administered by the transferring state, country, or territory, the applicant shall be issued a license by reciprocity upon passage of the national examination and/or practical examination administered by the board. Statutory military recognition supersedes that ordinary national/practical demand; it remains disclosed as a condition.
- Permanent Application
- Apply simultaneously for a permanent license. A permit pending normal licensure automatically terminates if the permanent application is denied.
- Prior License
- Current valid comparable-scope occupational license held in another jurisdiction at least one year, with that jurisdiction examinations or education/training/experience satisfied; good standing.
Military recognition based on work experience
- Examination Discretion
- The Board may require the identified state jurisprudential examination under R.S. 37:3651 E.
- Experience
- At least three years in a jurisdiction that does not license or government-certify the occupation; similar scope determined by the Board.
- Fitness
- Meet applicable good-standing, criminal-history, prior revocation/surrender and pending-complaint restrictions; pay applicable fees.
- Military Connection
- Qualifying member of the military, assigned Department of Defense civilian employee, spouse or dependent; Louisiana assignment or legal residence as specified by R.S. 37:3651. Dishonorable-discharge exclusions apply.
- Ordinary Reciprocity Demand
- The ordinary reciprocal rule also states: C.If the reciprocity applicant has not taken and received a passing score on the national examination administered by the board or on a practical examination administered by the transferring state, country, or territory, the applicant shall be issued a license by reciprocity upon passage of the national examination and/or practical examination administered by the board. Statutory military recognition supersedes that ordinary national/practical demand; it remains disclosed as a condition.
- Permanent Application
- Apply simultaneously for a permanent license. A permit pending normal licensure automatically terminates if the permanent application is denied.
Military recognition based on private certification and experience
- Examination Discretion
- The Board may require the identified state jurisprudential examination under R.S. 37:3651 E.
- Experience
- At least two years in a jurisdiction not licensing the occupation, plus current valid private certification in good standing; similar scope determined by the Board.
- Fitness
- Meet applicable good-standing, criminal-history, prior revocation/surrender and pending-complaint restrictions; pay applicable fees.
- Military Connection
- Qualifying member of the military, assigned Department of Defense civilian employee, spouse or dependent; Louisiana assignment or legal residence as specified by R.S. 37:3651. Dishonorable-discharge exclusions apply.
- Ordinary Reciprocity Demand
- The ordinary reciprocal rule also states: C.If the reciprocity applicant has not taken and received a passing score on the national examination administered by the board or on a practical examination administered by the transferring state, country, or territory, the applicant shall be issued a license by reciprocity upon passage of the national examination and/or practical examination administered by the board. Statutory military recognition supersedes that ordinary national/practical demand; it remains disclosed as a condition.
- Permanent Application
- Apply simultaneously for a permanent license. A permit pending normal licensure automatically terminates if the permanent application is denied.
Reactivate an instructor license after completing continuing education
- Continuing Education
- Complete required continuing education within the 24 months preceding reinstatement or renewal; otherwise the instructor receives an inactive license.
- Long Retirement
- A separate long-retirement return remains governed by R.S. 37:590 B and the restoration route.
Restore an expired license within three years
- Continuing Education
- At least sixteen hours in a Board-approved seminar every two years; active reinstatement/renewal requires completion within the preceding 24 months.
- Lapse
- Expired for no more than three years; pay twice the applicable fee for each expired year, capped at $300 under R.S. 37:599 A(3).
- Retirement
- The separate short-form examination applies when retired from practice for more than three years under R.S. 37:590 B.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- R.S. 37:590 A-C
R.S. 37:590 A-C
- R.S. 37:599 A(3), restoration within three years
R.S. 37:599 A(3), restoration within three years
- LAC 46:XXXI §505, C
LAC 46:XXXI §505, C
Initial teacher registration — Complete and pass 500 hours of teacher training over at least three months under a licensed teacher.
- Experience
- At least twelve months active esthetics practice before beginning the instructor course.
- General Education
- High school diploma or equivalent as determined by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.
- Other Examination Slots
- The statute requires the examination prescribed by the Board; LAC §309 identifies written and practical examinations but does not identify a separate currently offered teacher written examination. The unidentifiable written slot is an applicant condition.
- Practice Credential
- Possess an esthetics or cosmetology certificate.
- Teacher Education
- Complete and pass 500 hours of teacher training over at least three months under a licensed teacher.
Licensure by endorsement under the Welcome Home Act
- Jurisprudence Discretion
- R.S. 37:54 A permits the Board to require the identified Louisiana jurisprudential/state examination; the discretion is an applicant condition.
- Ordinary Reciprocity Demand
- LAC 46:XXXI §509 C states: C.If the reciprocity applicant has not taken and received a passing score on the national examination administered by the board or on a practical examination administered by the transferring state, country, or territory, the applicant shall be issued a license by reciprocity upon passage of the national examination and/or practical examination administered by the board. The Welcome Home Act is a separate notwithstanding-any-other-law route; this lower-ranked ordinary reciprocity demand is shown as an applicant condition, not additional examination leaves.
- Prior License
- Hold a current valid license or certification in another United States jurisdiction with a similar scope as determined by the Board, held for at least one year; the issuing jurisdiction required examination or education, training or experience standards.
- Residency
- Live in Louisiana and prove residency through one of the forms specified in R.S. 37:53; employment-based proof requires another form six months later.
- Standing
- Good standing, no disqualifying criminal record and no unresolved disciplinary action or investigation; pay fees.
Registered Esthetician
Certificate of registration to practice esthetics, including the August 1, 2026 statutory authorization for blow drying in combination with esthetics services.
Licensing authority: Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology · Application information
Licensure by reciprocity — Active esthetics license in another United States state or territory
All of the following:
- National Esthetics Theory Examination
- Louisiana Esthetician State Exam
- Esthetician Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Applicant License
- Active esthetics license in another United States state or territory.
- Application
- Submit the completed reciprocity application, supporting documents, fees and evidence of successful examination passage.
- Education
- Completed and passed the appropriate course at a school licensed in the jurisdiction issuing the license (R.S. 37:582 C(1)).
- Foreign Approval
- Provide Board verification of the current foreign-jurisdiction license.
- Prior National Examination
- A passing score on the Board-administered national examination may satisfy that slot; an applicant lacking the passing score must pass it (LAC §509 C). A prior passing current national examination remains a requirement leaf.
- Prior Practical Examination
- A passing practical examination administered by the transferring jurisdiction may excuse the applicant from sitting the Louisiana practical examination; that other jurisdiction examination is an applicant condition, not a leaf.
- State Examination
- Pass the Louisiana state examination, regardless of the national or practical waiver.
Licensure by reciprocity — Active esthetics license in a foreign country or territory
All of the following:
- National Esthetics Theory Examination
- Louisiana Esthetician State Exam
- Esthetician Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Applicant License
- Active esthetics license in a foreign country or territory.
- Application
- Submit the completed reciprocity application, supporting documents, fees and evidence of successful examination passage.
- Education
- Completed and passed the appropriate course at a school licensed in the jurisdiction issuing the license (R.S. 37:582 C(1)).
- Foreign Approval
- Foreign licensees require Board approval under LAC §309 A(6).
- Prior National Examination
- A passing score on the Board-administered national examination may satisfy that slot; an applicant lacking the passing score must pass it (LAC §509 C). A prior passing current national examination remains a requirement leaf.
- Prior Practical Examination
- A passing practical examination administered by the transferring jurisdiction may excuse the applicant from sitting the Louisiana practical examination; that other jurisdiction examination is an applicant condition, not a leaf.
- State Examination
- Pass the Louisiana state examination, regardless of the national or practical waiver.
Initial licensure by examination
All of the following:
- National Esthetics Theory Examination
- Louisiana Esthetician State Exam
- Esthetician Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional Assessment Slots
- R.S. 37:586 B also describes oral tests without identifying a separate currently offered oral examination; this unnamed slot remains a condition.
- General Education
- At completion of schooling, tenth-grade equivalent from an approved high school or equivalent of a high school diploma from a nonpublic school not seeking state approval (R.S. 37:582 A(2)).
- Minimum Age
- At least sixteen years of age.
- Professional Education
- Complete and pass the approved esthetics course: at least 750 hours and at least three consecutive months; R.S. 37:595 B(2) requires at least 300 hours practical application and lecture and at least 200 hours library study or research.
- Scheduling
- The school submits the examination request and the Board issues clearance letters.
- School And Board Clearance
- Obtain clearance from the school last attended and the Board, provide student registration, cumulative hours report and color photograph, pay required fees and contractual school obligations. School-closure or lost-record exceptions follow LAC 46:XXXI §309 C.
Initial licensure with military training equivalency
All of the following:
- National Esthetics Theory Examination
- Louisiana Esthetician State Exam
- Esthetician Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional Assessment Slots
- R.S. 37:586 B also describes oral tests without identifying a separate currently offered oral examination; this unnamed slot remains a condition.
- General Education
- At completion of schooling, tenth-grade equivalent from an approved high school or equivalent of a high school diploma from a nonpublic school not seeking state approval (R.S. 37:582 A(2)).
- Military Training
- Comparable military education, training or experience may completely or partly satisfy educational requirements as determined by the Board under R.S. 37:3651 D.
- Minimum Age
- At least sixteen years of age.
- Professional Education
- Complete and pass the approved esthetics course: at least 750 hours and at least three consecutive months; R.S. 37:595 B(2) requires at least 300 hours practical application and lecture and at least 200 hours library study or research.
- Scheduling
- The school submits the examination request and the Board issues clearance letters.
- School And Board Clearance
- Obtain clearance from the school last attended and the Board, provide student registration, cumulative hours report and color photograph, pay required fees and contractual school obligations. School-closure or lost-record exceptions follow LAC 46:XXXI §309 C.
Annual renewal while actively practicing
- Deadline
- Renew on or before the individual birth date; expiration is thirty days after the birth date if not renewed.
- Fees
- Pay applicable annual renewal fees.
Renew after maintaining active practice through a foreign jurisdiction license
- Board Expired License Instruction
- Board restoration instructions say: In accordance with Louisiana Revised Statute 37:590, any cosmetologist, manicurist, esthetician or instructor whose license has expired for a minimum of 3 years (36 months) is required to take an examination. The Board has elected to give a 25 question multiple-choice exam. The examination contains questions on general knowledge based on your curriculum of licensure as well as subjects contained in the Administrative Rules Book (Gold Book). The statutory maintained-active-practice exception controls; the Board expired-license instruction remains visible as an applicant condition.
- Fees
- Pay applicable renewal/restoration fees.
- Foreign License
- A Louisiana registrant maintaining a practice license or registration outside Louisiana is deemed to have maintained active practice during that foreign license term (R.S. 37:590 C).
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- R.S. 37:590 C
R.S. 37:590 C
- R.S. 37:590 A-C
R.S. 37:590 A-C
Return after more than three years retired from practice
- Board Instructions
- The Board page describes expiration for a minimum of three years (36 months); the individual licensing FAQ says more than three years. These instructions are applicant conditions; the statute uses retirement for more than three years.
- Brush Up Course
- An approved-school brush-up course may facilitate renewal; it is not an exam alternative.
- Fees
- Pay applicable restoration fees.
- Retirement
- More than three years retired from authorized practice; show fitness through the short-form restoration examination.
Military recognition of an existing occupational license
- Examination Discretion
- The Board may require the identified state jurisprudential examination under R.S. 37:3651 E.
- Fitness
- Meet applicable good-standing, criminal-history, prior revocation/surrender and pending-complaint restrictions; pay applicable fees.
- Military Connection
- Qualifying member of the military, assigned Department of Defense civilian employee, spouse or dependent; Louisiana assignment or legal residence as specified by R.S. 37:3651. Dishonorable-discharge exclusions apply.
- Ordinary Reciprocity Demand
- The ordinary reciprocal rule also states: C.If the reciprocity applicant has not taken and received a passing score on the national examination administered by the board or on a practical examination administered by the transferring state, country, or territory, the applicant shall be issued a license by reciprocity upon passage of the national examination and/or practical examination administered by the board. Statutory military recognition supersedes that ordinary national/practical demand; it remains disclosed as a condition.
- Permanent Application
- Apply simultaneously for a permanent license. A permit pending normal licensure automatically terminates if the permanent application is denied.
- Prior License
- Current valid comparable-scope occupational license held in another jurisdiction at least one year, with that jurisdiction examinations or education/training/experience satisfied; good standing.
Military recognition based on work experience
- Examination Discretion
- The Board may require the identified state jurisprudential examination under R.S. 37:3651 E.
- Experience
- At least three years in a jurisdiction that does not license or government-certify the occupation; similar scope determined by the Board.
- Fitness
- Meet applicable good-standing, criminal-history, prior revocation/surrender and pending-complaint restrictions; pay applicable fees.
- Military Connection
- Qualifying member of the military, assigned Department of Defense civilian employee, spouse or dependent; Louisiana assignment or legal residence as specified by R.S. 37:3651. Dishonorable-discharge exclusions apply.
- Ordinary Reciprocity Demand
- The ordinary reciprocal rule also states: C.If the reciprocity applicant has not taken and received a passing score on the national examination administered by the board or on a practical examination administered by the transferring state, country, or territory, the applicant shall be issued a license by reciprocity upon passage of the national examination and/or practical examination administered by the board. Statutory military recognition supersedes that ordinary national/practical demand; it remains disclosed as a condition.
- Permanent Application
- Apply simultaneously for a permanent license. A permit pending normal licensure automatically terminates if the permanent application is denied.
Military recognition based on private certification and experience
- Examination Discretion
- The Board may require the identified state jurisprudential examination under R.S. 37:3651 E.
- Experience
- At least two years in a jurisdiction not licensing the occupation, plus current valid private certification in good standing; similar scope determined by the Board.
- Fitness
- Meet applicable good-standing, criminal-history, prior revocation/surrender and pending-complaint restrictions; pay applicable fees.
- Military Connection
- Qualifying member of the military, assigned Department of Defense civilian employee, spouse or dependent; Louisiana assignment or legal residence as specified by R.S. 37:3651. Dishonorable-discharge exclusions apply.
- Ordinary Reciprocity Demand
- The ordinary reciprocal rule also states: C.If the reciprocity applicant has not taken and received a passing score on the national examination administered by the board or on a practical examination administered by the transferring state, country, or territory, the applicant shall be issued a license by reciprocity upon passage of the national examination and/or practical examination administered by the board. Statutory military recognition supersedes that ordinary national/practical demand; it remains disclosed as a condition.
- Permanent Application
- Apply simultaneously for a permanent license. A permit pending normal licensure automatically terminates if the permanent application is denied.
Restore an expired license within three years
- Lapse
- Expired for no more than three years; pay twice the applicable fee for each expired year, capped at $300 under R.S. 37:599 A(3).
- Retirement
- The separate short-form examination applies when retired from practice for more than three years under R.S. 37:590 B.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- R.S. 37:590 A-C
R.S. 37:590 A-C
- R.S. 37:599 A(3), restoration within three years
R.S. 37:599 A(3), restoration within three years
Licensure by endorsement under the Welcome Home Act
- Jurisprudence Discretion
- R.S. 37:54 A permits the Board to require the identified Louisiana jurisprudential/state examination; the discretion is an applicant condition.
- Ordinary Reciprocity Demand
- LAC 46:XXXI §509 C states: C.If the reciprocity applicant has not taken and received a passing score on the national examination administered by the board or on a practical examination administered by the transferring state, country, or territory, the applicant shall be issued a license by reciprocity upon passage of the national examination and/or practical examination administered by the board. The Welcome Home Act is a separate notwithstanding-any-other-law route; this lower-ranked ordinary reciprocity demand is shown as an applicant condition, not additional examination leaves.
- Prior License
- Hold a current valid license or certification in another United States jurisdiction with a similar scope as determined by the Board, held for at least one year; the issuing jurisdiction required examination or education, training or experience standards.
- Residency
- Live in Louisiana and prove residency through one of the forms specified in R.S. 37:53; employment-based proof requires another form six months later.
- Standing
- Good standing, no disqualifying criminal record and no unresolved disciplinary action or investigation; pay fees.
Temporary Certificate of Registration — Esthetics
Licensing authority: Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology · Application information
Military recognition of an existing occupational license — permit pending normal license
- Examination Discretion
- The Board may require the identified state jurisprudential examination under R.S. 37:3651 E.
- Fitness
- Meet applicable good-standing, criminal-history, prior revocation/surrender and pending-complaint restrictions; pay applicable fees.
- Military Connection
- Qualifying member of the military, assigned Department of Defense civilian employee, spouse or dependent; Louisiana assignment or legal residence as specified by R.S. 37:3651. Dishonorable-discharge exclusions apply.
- Ordinary Reciprocity Demand
- The ordinary reciprocal rule also states: C.If the reciprocity applicant has not taken and received a passing score on the national examination administered by the board or on a practical examination administered by the transferring state, country, or territory, the applicant shall be issued a license by reciprocity upon passage of the national examination and/or practical examination administered by the board. Statutory military recognition supersedes that ordinary national/practical demand; it remains disclosed as a condition.
- Permanent Application
- Apply simultaneously for a permanent license. A permit pending normal licensure automatically terminates if the permanent application is denied.
- Prior License
- Current valid comparable-scope occupational license held in another jurisdiction at least one year, with that jurisdiction examinations or education/training/experience satisfied; good standing.
Military recognition based on work experience — permit pending normal license
- Examination Discretion
- The Board may require the identified state jurisprudential examination under R.S. 37:3651 E.
- Experience
- At least three years in a jurisdiction that does not license or government-certify the occupation; similar scope determined by the Board.
- Fitness
- Meet applicable good-standing, criminal-history, prior revocation/surrender and pending-complaint restrictions; pay applicable fees.
- Military Connection
- Qualifying member of the military, assigned Department of Defense civilian employee, spouse or dependent; Louisiana assignment or legal residence as specified by R.S. 37:3651. Dishonorable-discharge exclusions apply.
- Ordinary Reciprocity Demand
- The ordinary reciprocal rule also states: C.If the reciprocity applicant has not taken and received a passing score on the national examination administered by the board or on a practical examination administered by the transferring state, country, or territory, the applicant shall be issued a license by reciprocity upon passage of the national examination and/or practical examination administered by the board. Statutory military recognition supersedes that ordinary national/practical demand; it remains disclosed as a condition.
- Permanent Application
- Apply simultaneously for a permanent license. A permit pending normal licensure automatically terminates if the permanent application is denied.
Military recognition based on private certification and experience — permit pending normal license
- Examination Discretion
- The Board may require the identified state jurisprudential examination under R.S. 37:3651 E.
- Experience
- At least two years in a jurisdiction not licensing the occupation, plus current valid private certification in good standing; similar scope determined by the Board.
- Fitness
- Meet applicable good-standing, criminal-history, prior revocation/surrender and pending-complaint restrictions; pay applicable fees.
- Military Connection
- Qualifying member of the military, assigned Department of Defense civilian employee, spouse or dependent; Louisiana assignment or legal residence as specified by R.S. 37:3651. Dishonorable-discharge exclusions apply.
- Ordinary Reciprocity Demand
- The ordinary reciprocal rule also states: C.If the reciprocity applicant has not taken and received a passing score on the national examination administered by the board or on a practical examination administered by the transferring state, country, or territory, the applicant shall be issued a license by reciprocity upon passage of the national examination and/or practical examination administered by the board. Statutory military recognition supersedes that ordinary national/practical demand; it remains disclosed as a condition.
- Permanent Application
- Apply simultaneously for a permanent license. A permit pending normal licensure automatically terminates if the permanent application is denied.
Temporary practice — pending
- Conduct
- Violation of the Cosmetology Act or Board rules may result in denial of licensure or testing.
- Hours
- Study hours used to obtain a temporary permit do not count toward another license.
- Limits
- No more than thirty days for each temporary certificate and no more than four per calendar year under R.S. 37:584.
- Ordinary License Examinations
- The separate permanent-license application remains subject to its own examination requirements; those are not prerequisites to issuance of this temporary permit.
- Prior License
- Licensed to practice esthetics in another jurisdiction.
- Purpose
- Pending ordinary application and testing; file a complete licensure application, verify current licensure in the state of last employment, reside and plan to work in Louisiana.
- Supervision
- Practice under a Louisiana licensee in the same discipline.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- R.S. 37:584 A-C (short substantive page verified)
R.S. 37:584 A-C (short substantive page verified)
- LAC 46:XXXI §1113, A
LAC 46:XXXI §1113, A
Temporary practice — shows
- Conduct
- Violation of the Cosmetology Act or Board rules may result in denial of licensure or testing.
- Hours
- Study hours used to obtain a temporary permit do not count toward another license.
- Limits
- No more than thirty days for each temporary certificate and no more than four per calendar year under R.S. 37:584.
- Prior License
- Licensed to practice esthetics in another jurisdiction.
- Purpose
- Participate in hair shows, beauty pageants or demonstrations; apply at least thirty days before the requested permit period.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- R.S. 37:584 A-C (short substantive page verified)
R.S. 37:584 A-C (short substantive page verified)
- LAC 46:XXXI §1113, A
LAC 46:XXXI §1113, A
Esthetician Instructor Practical
This assessment does not have a question bank.
Examination sources
- Instructor Practical Testing Information, pages 5-6, category I
Instructor Practical Testing Information, pages 5-6, category I
- Instructor Practical Testing Information, page 6, category II
Instructor Practical Testing Information, page 6, category II
- Instructor Practical Testing Information, page 2, classroom performance
Instructor Practical Testing Information, page 2, classroom performance
- Instructor Practical Testing Information, page 1
Instructor Practical Testing Information, page 1
- Student FAQ, failed examination phases
Student FAQ, failed examination phases
Restoration Exam
- Provider
- Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology
- Format
- Multiple-choice examination
- Exam questions
- 25
Practice scope
Inferred from the examination name; the authority has not published an examination outline.
- Louisiana Cosmetology Act — Revised Statutes Title 37, Chapter 6-A
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 1. General Provisions
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 3. Schools and Students
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 5. Licensees
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 7. Safety and Sanitation Requirements
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 9. Inspections
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 11. Special and Temporary Permits
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 12. Mobile Salons
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 13. Disciplinary Proceedings
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 15. Declaratory Orders
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 17. Miscellaneous Provisions
Examination sources
- Restoration Exam Information, format and content
Restoration Exam Information, format and content
- LAC 46:XXXI §303, A
LAC 46:XXXI §303, A
- March 2003 official compilation, contents: Chapter 6-A
March 2003 official compilation, contents: Chapter 6-A
- Current rule compilation, Part XXXI chapter enumeration
Current rule compilation, Part XXXI chapter enumeration
- Restoration Exam Information, administration
Restoration Exam Information, administration
- R.S. 37:590 B
R.S. 37:590 B
Louisiana Esthetician State Exam
- Provider
- Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology
- Format
- Written state theory examination
Practice scope
Inferred from the examination name; the authority has not published an examination outline.
- Louisiana Cosmetology Act — Revised Statutes Title 37, Chapter 6-A
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 1. General Provisions
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 3. Schools and Students
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 5. Licensees
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 7. Safety and Sanitation Requirements
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 9. Inspections
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 11. Special and Temporary Permits
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 12. Mobile Salons
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 13. Disciplinary Proceedings
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 15. Declaratory Orders
- LAC Title 46, Part XXXI, Chapter 17. Miscellaneous Provisions
Examination sources
- Testing page, ESTHETICIAN EXAM INFORMATION and Gold Book study link
Testing page, ESTHETICIAN EXAM INFORMATION and Gold Book study link
- March 2003 official compilation, contents: Chapter 6-A
March 2003 official compilation, contents: Chapter 6-A
- Current rule compilation, Part XXXI chapter enumeration
Current rule compilation, Part XXXI chapter enumeration
- LAC 46:XXXI §303, A
LAC 46:XXXI §303, A
- Student FAQ, written national and state examination fees
Student FAQ, written national and state examination fees
- Student FAQ, failed examination phases
Student FAQ, failed examination phases
- R.S. 37:586 A-B
R.S. 37:586 A-B
Esthetician Practical Examination
This assessment does not have a question bank.
Examination sources
- Esthetics Practical Testing Information, page 1
Esthetics Practical Testing Information, page 1
- Esthetics Practical Testing Information, page 6, facial protocol
Esthetics Practical Testing Information, page 6, facial protocol
- LAC 46:XXXI §309, E
LAC 46:XXXI §309, E
- Testing page, ESTHETICIAN EXAM INFORMATION and Gold Book study link
Testing page, ESTHETICIAN EXAM INFORMATION and Gold Book study link
- Student FAQ, failed examination phases
Student FAQ, failed examination phases
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"