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North Dakota Esthetician — Requirements & Free Practice

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Advanced Esthetician

License for advanced esthetics in North Dakota, requiring advanced training and enhanced safety protocols.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Eight hours annually after initial licensing year.
Renewal
Apply by December 31, pay renewal fee and have no statutory grounds for denial.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement under NDCC 43 11 25(2)(b)
Discipline
No revocation/surrender during investigation and no unresolved discipline.
Exam condition
NDAC 32-05-01-01.2 requires exams if licensed less than one year or less than three years without original NIC theory/practical or equivalent. The form requires passed practical, NIC theory and law exams and allows Board law-exam discretion; equivalence, prior passing and discretion are applicant conditions.
Fees
Pay applicable endorsement and original-license fees after approval.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
International credentials
Training and credentials outside the United States require a Board-approved credentialing-agency review at applicant expense under NDCC 43-11-25.1; the Board may accept or reject recommendations.
License
Current license in another jurisdiction; verify jurisdiction requirements were met and all licenses remain in good standing.
Theoretical examination
NDCC 43-11-23 and NDAC 32-04-01-25 require an advanced-esthetician theory examination. The Board page names NIC Written (Theory), but the obtained state evidence does not identify the exact nationwide advanced-theory or combined-theory examination filling this slot. Keep the unresolved name as a condition without substituting a frozen version.
Training or experience
Required hours or equivalent experience: 1,000 work hours per 100 curriculum hours, capped at 500 credited curriculum hours from experience within the immediately preceding three years.
Endorsement under NDCC 43 11 25(2)(a)
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board form exam demand
SFN 11800 (12-2025) page 3 states: "Must have taken and passed a practical test, the NIC National Theory test, and the North Dakota Laws, Rules, & Regulations test" and "Applicants may be required to take the North Dakota Laws, Rules & Regulations test." NDCC 43-11-25(2)(a) expressly grants this qualifying route without examination and controls over that form.
Board rule exam demand
NDAC 32-05-01-01.2 requires examinations for licenses held less than one year, or less than three years if original jurisdiction did not require NIC practical/theory or equivalent. The statute controls applicants meeting the explicit subsection (2)(a) exemption; the rule demand is visible as a condition.
Discipline
No revocation/surrender under investigation or unresolved discipline; Board determines whether prior discipline was corrected and resolved.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
International credentials
Training and credentials outside the United States require a Board-approved credentialing-agency review at applicant expense under NDCC 43-11-25.1; the Board may accept or reject recommendations.
License
License of similar scope with substantially similar/equivalent examination standards; issuing jurisdiction verifies minimum education; all licenses in good standing for at least one year.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Advanced grandfather provision: approved training
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Bloodborne pathogens
Active OSHA bloodborne-pathogen certification.
Deadline
Apply on or before December 31, 2027; pay original-license fee.
Eligibility
ND cosmetologist or esthetician license since January 1, 2025 or before, and at least one year practical experience immediately preceding January 1, 2026.
Experience or training
At least 150 hours of Board-approved advanced esthetics training in the past five years; qualifying courses may be combined or distance learning.
First aid cpr
Active Board-approved first-aid and CPR certification.
Procedure certifications
Separately certify procedures before regulated advanced services.
Safety training
Board-approved four-hour safety/infection control training.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Advanced grandfather provision: supervised experience
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Bloodborne pathogens
Active OSHA bloodborne-pathogen certification.
Deadline
Apply on or before December 31, 2027; pay original-license fee.
Eligibility
ND cosmetologist or esthetician license since January 1, 2025 or before, and at least one year practical experience immediately preceding January 1, 2026.
Experience or training
Notarized affidavit of at least 300 actual service hours under qualifying medical professional direct supervision/control within five years before application.
First aid cpr
Active Board-approved first-aid and CPR certification.
Procedure certifications
Separately certify procedures before regulated advanced services.
Safety training
Board-approved four-hour safety/infection control training.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Advanced licensure with credited fundamental training
Application
Board-approved training, application and fees; graduate before Board exams. The Board-hosted advanced practical CIB and 2026 schedule identify the advanced-practice practical exam.
Certifications
Before licensure, active Board-approved OSHA bloodborne-pathogen and first-aid/CPR certifications under NDAC 32-04-01-27.1. Separate procedure certifications precede microneedling, nonablative devices or advanced peels.
Credited training
An active esthetician/cosmetology license or prior fundamental training may receive up to 600 hours credit as approved; complete the 500 advanced hours. The underlying license is a qualification.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
Theoretical examination
NDCC 43-11-23 and NDAC 32-04-01-25 require an advanced-esthetician theory examination. The Board page names NIC Written (Theory), but the obtained state evidence does not identify the exact nationwide advanced-theory or combined-theory examination filling this slot. Keep the unresolved name as a condition without substituting a frozen version.
Training
Complete the 1,100-hour advanced curriculum (600 fundamental and 500 advanced hours). The Board may credit up to 600 hours of fundamental esthetics/cosmetology training or the underlying active license.
Reapplication after more than five years expired
Application
Board-approved training, application and fees; graduate before Board exams. The Board-hosted advanced practical CIB and 2026 schedule identify the advanced-practice practical exam.
Certifications
Before licensure, active Board-approved OSHA bloodborne-pathogen and first-aid/CPR certifications under NDAC 32-04-01-27.1. Separate procedure certifications precede microneedling, nonablative devices or advanced peels.
Expired license
NDCC 43-11-29(5) prohibits reinstatement after more than five years and allows reapplication under initial requirements; Board determines training and application eligibility.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
Theoretical examination
NDCC 43-11-23 and NDAC 32-04-01-25 require an advanced-esthetician theory examination. The Board page names NIC Written (Theory), but the obtained state evidence does not identify the exact nationwide advanced-theory or combined-theory examination filling this slot. Keep the unresolved name as a condition without substituting a frozen version.
Training
Complete the 1,100-hour advanced curriculum (600 fundamental and 500 advanced hours). The Board may credit up to 600 hours of fundamental esthetics/cosmetology training or the underlying active license.
Reinstatement after one year and before five years
North Dakota Law & Rules Examination
Expiration window
After one year and before five years; after more than five years the Board cannot reinstate and initial requirements apply.
Fees
Pay required late and current renewal fees; furnish satisfactory proof of passing current law examination.
Reinstatement within one year
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board rule exam demand
NDAC 32-05-01-01(4) states: "The licensee shall make reinstatement application to the board, pay appropriate penalty fee, and retake and pass the most current North Dakota state laws rules and regulations examination." NDCC 43-11-29(3) supplies the higher-ranked fee-only route within one year; the broader rule demand is a condition.
Fees
NDCC 43-11-29(3) requires late and current renewal fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Removal of legacy status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply and pay applicable renewal fee under NDCC 43-11-28(7).
Continuing education
Complete required annual continuing education if applicable.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial advanced licensure by school and examination
Application
Board-approved training, application and fees; graduate before Board exams. The Board-hosted advanced practical CIB and 2026 schedule identify the advanced-practice practical exam.
Certifications
Before licensure, active Board-approved OSHA bloodborne-pathogen and first-aid/CPR certifications under NDAC 32-04-01-27.1. Separate procedure certifications precede microneedling, nonablative devices or advanced peels.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
Theoretical examination
NDCC 43-11-23 and NDAC 32-04-01-25 require an advanced-esthetician theory examination. The Board page names NIC Written (Theory), but the obtained state evidence does not identify the exact nationwide advanced-theory or combined-theory examination filling this slot. Keep the unresolved name as a condition without substituting a frozen version.
Training
Complete the 1,100-hour advanced curriculum (600 fundamental and 500 advanced hours). The Board may credit up to 600 hours of fundamental esthetics/cosmetology training or the underlying active license.

Advanced chemical peel certification

Additional Board-approved procedure certification for an advanced esthetician.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Procedure certification by course and competency attestation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Assessment
These rules define the certification by course completion and instructor attestation, with no separately identified licensing examination.
Instructor
Board-qualified instructor must attest in writing to successful hands-on competency.
Submission
Submit certificate before procedure, including instructor/student names, course completion date, total hours and competency attestation.
Training
Board-approved minimum eight-hour hybrid didactic and supervised in-person hands-on course.
Underlying license
Active ND advanced esthetician license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Independent licensee

Separate license for a personal licenseholder operating independently within a licensed establishment under a lease or rental agreement.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Independent annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Requirements
Apply by December 31, pay renewal fee and have no denial grounds.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial independent licensee approval
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply with original fee, opening inspection and Board approval before operation.
Compliance
Display both licenses and allow inspection, including when absent; obey applicable laws and rules.
Location
Lease with licensed establishment; separate license for each individual/location.
Personal license
Active ND esthetician or advanced esthetician license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New independent application after relocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Location
Apply and obtain approval for a new establishment location before operation; personal license, lease and opening requirements remain applicable.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Independent reapplication after twelve months
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Requirements
Pay late penalty for each unrenewed year and reapply; active personal license, lease and location approval required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Independent reinstatement within twelve months
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Requirements
Pay required late and current renewal fees; maintain personal license and qualifying location.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Instructor's license

Esthetics or advanced-esthetics instructor, limited to the underlying licensed scope.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Twelve hours annually after initial licensing year.
Renewal
Apply by December 31, pay renewal fee and have no statutory grounds for denial.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Instructor initial licensure
North Dakota Law & Rules Examination
Deadline
Pass within sixty days of program completion. Pending results, supervised student teaching allowed; missed deadline ends privileges. Two failed attempts require 200 more didactic/hands-on training hours before retakes.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
National practical exam
NIC National Instructor Practical Examination is required by NDCC 43-11-27 and Board NIC practical instructions for instructors; no registered version is supplied.
National theory exam
NIC National Instructor Theory Examination, identified as Instructor Theory (Written) CIB in the North Dakota Prov bulletin, is required and has no registered version in the supplied context.
Training
240 Board-approved instructor hours when licensed two or more years, otherwise 480, under NDCC 43-11-16(3); statute controls the rule more-than-two/less-than-two wording at exactly two years.
Underlying license
Active ND esthetician or advanced esthetician license; teach within its scope.
Instructor reapplication after five years
North Dakota Law & Rules Examination
Deadline
Pass within sixty days of program completion. Pending results, supervised student teaching allowed; missed deadline ends privileges. Two failed attempts require 200 more didactic/hands-on training hours before retakes.
Expired license
After more than five years expired, initial instructor requirements apply under NDCC 43-11-29(5).
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
National practical exam
NIC National Instructor Practical Examination is required by NDCC 43-11-27 and Board NIC practical instructions for instructors; no registered version is supplied.
National theory exam
NIC National Instructor Theory Examination, identified as Instructor Theory (Written) CIB in the North Dakota Prov bulletin, is required and has no registered version in the supplied context.
Training
240 Board-approved instructor hours when licensed two or more years, otherwise 480, under NDCC 43-11-16(3); statute controls the rule more-than-two/less-than-two wording at exactly two years.
Underlying license
Active ND esthetician or advanced esthetician license; teach within its scope.
Reinstatement after one year and before five years
North Dakota Law & Rules Examination
Expiration window
After one year and before five years; after more than five years the Board cannot reinstate and initial requirements apply.
Fees
Pay required late and current renewal fees; furnish satisfactory proof of passing current law examination.
Reinstatement within one year
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board rule exam demand
NDAC 32-05-01-01(4) states: "The licensee shall make reinstatement application to the board, pay appropriate penalty fee, and retake and pass the most current North Dakota state laws rules and regulations examination." NDCC 43-11-29(3) supplies the higher-ranked fee-only route within one year; the broader rule demand is a condition.
Fees
NDCC 43-11-29(3) requires late and current renewal fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Advanced esthetician — Legacy Status

Legacy form after forty-five cumulative years; no active compensated practice or advanced procedures.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Legacy annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Renewal
Renew by December 31 with the statutory $25 fee and maintain legacy eligibility; no continuing education.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Election of legacy status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply at least ninety days before expiry and pay legacy fee.
Continuing education
No continuing education in legacy status.
Eligibility
Forty-five cumulative years of active ND license; good standing and no longer actively engaged in profession.
Practice limit
No compensated services, advertising availability, business management or supervising licensees/students; volunteer activity requires Board review. Advanced procedures prohibited.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Master esthetician — Legacy Status

Legacy form after forty-five cumulative years; no active compensated practice or advanced procedures.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Legacy annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Renewal
Renew by December 31 with the statutory $25 fee and maintain legacy eligibility; no continuing education.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Election of legacy status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply at least ninety days before expiry and pay legacy fee.
Continuing education
No continuing education in legacy status.
Eligibility
Forty-five cumulative years of active ND license; good standing or eligibility for reinstatement under North Dakota Century Code section 43-11-29; no longer actively engaged in profession.
Practice limit
No compensated services, advertising availability, business management or supervising licensees/students; volunteer activity requires Board review. Advanced procedures prohibited.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

legacy license status

Legacy form after forty-five cumulative years; no active compensated practice or advanced procedures.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Legacy annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Renewal
Renew by December 31 with the statutory $25 fee and maintain legacy eligibility; no continuing education.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Election of legacy status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply at least ninety days before expiry and pay legacy fee.
Continuing education
No continuing education in legacy status.
Eligibility
Forty-five cumulative years of active ND license; license in good standing or individual eligible for reinstatement under North Dakota Century Code section 43-11-29; no longer actively engaged in profession.
Practice limit
No compensated services, advertising availability, business management or supervising licensees/students; volunteer activity requires Board review. Advanced procedures prohibited.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Master esthetician

Master esthetician license under NDCC 43-11-26 requiring at least 1,000 practice hours, an original licensure fee and compliance with other applicable chapter requirements.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Four annual hours begin in the 2028 renewal cycle, not 2026.
Renewal
Apply by December 31, pay renewal fee and have no statutory grounds for denial.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Master qualification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Original-license fee, Chapter 43-11 requirements and notarized Board SFN 50927 work verification.
Experience
At least 1,000 practice hours under direction/control of master cosmetologist, master esthetician, advanced esthetician or permitted healthcare professional under NDCC 43-11-26.
Reapplication
After more than five years expired, use initial qualification requirements under NDCC 43-11-29(5).
Underlying license
Already a licensed esthetician; underlying license is a qualification.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Master reapplication after five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Original-license fee, Chapter 43-11 requirements and notarized Board SFN 50927 work verification.
Experience
At least 1,000 practice hours under direction/control of master cosmetologist, master esthetician, advanced esthetician or permitted healthcare professional under NDCC 43-11-26.
Reapplication
After more than five years expired, use initial qualification requirements under NDCC 43-11-29(5).
Underlying license
Already a licensed esthetician; underlying license is a qualification.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after one year and before five years
North Dakota Law & Rules Examination
Expiration window
After one year and before five years; after more than five years the Board cannot reinstate and initial requirements apply.
Fees
Pay required late and current renewal fees; furnish satisfactory proof of passing current law examination.
Reinstatement within one year
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board rule exam demand
NDAC 32-05-01-01(4) states: "The licensee shall make reinstatement application to the board, pay appropriate penalty fee, and retake and pass the most current North Dakota state laws rules and regulations examination." NDCC 43-11-29(3) supplies the higher-ranked fee-only route within one year; the broader rule demand is a condition.
Fees
NDCC 43-11-29(3) requires late and current renewal fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Removal of legacy status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply and pay applicable renewal fee under NDCC 43-11-28(7).
Continuing education
Complete required annual continuing education if applicable.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Microneedling certification

Additional Board-approved procedure certification for an advanced esthetician.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Procedure certification by course and competency attestation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Assessment
These rules define the certification by course completion and instructor attestation, with no separately identified licensing examination.
Instructor
Board-qualified instructor must attest in writing to successful hands-on competency.
Submission
Submit certificate before procedure, including instructor/student names, course completion date, total hours and competency attestation.
Training
Board-approved twelve-hour course: at least three didactic hours and at least six supervised in-person hands-on hours.
Underlying license
Active ND advanced esthetician license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Esthetician

Ordinary personal esthetics license.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Four annual hours begin in the 2028 renewal cycle, not 2026.
Renewal
Apply by December 31, pay renewal fee and have no statutory grounds for denial.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial examination after apprenticeship
Application
Apply and pay applicable fees; pass applicable theory, North Dakota law and practical examinations.
Completion
USDOL completion certificate for Board-recognized program; out-of-state applicants document substantially similar minimum hours and obtain Board application approval.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
Supervision
One-to-one Board-approved trainer supervision; thirty related technical hours before client services; no independent apprentice practice.
Training
Esthetics requires at least 2,000 on-the-job learning hours and 250 related technical instruction hours; complete within thirty months, excluding approved leave, averaging eighty combined hours monthly.
Endorsement under NDCC 43 11 25(2)(b)
Discipline
No revocation/surrender during investigation and no unresolved discipline.
Exam condition
NDAC 32-05-01-01.2 requires exams if licensed less than one year or less than three years without original NIC theory/practical or equivalent. The form requires passed practical, NIC theory and law exams and allows Board law-exam discretion; equivalence, prior passing and discretion are applicant conditions.
Fees
Pay applicable endorsement and original-license fees after approval.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
International credentials
Training and credentials outside the United States require a Board-approved credentialing-agency review at applicant expense under NDCC 43-11-25.1; the Board may accept or reject recommendations.
License
Current license in another jurisdiction; verify jurisdiction requirements were met and all licenses remain in good standing.
Training or experience
Required hours or equivalent experience: 1,000 work hours per 100 curriculum hours, capped at 500 credited curriculum hours from experience within the immediately preceding three years.
Endorsement under NDCC 43 11 25(2)(a)
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board form exam demand
SFN 11800 (12-2025) page 3 states: "Must have taken and passed a practical test, the NIC National Theory test, and the North Dakota Laws, Rules, & Regulations test" and "Applicants may be required to take the North Dakota Laws, Rules & Regulations test." NDCC 43-11-25(2)(a) expressly grants this qualifying route without examination and controls over that form.
Board rule exam demand
NDAC 32-05-01-01.2 requires examinations for licenses held less than one year, or less than three years if original jurisdiction did not require NIC practical/theory or equivalent. The statute controls applicants meeting the explicit subsection (2)(a) exemption; the rule demand is visible as a condition.
Discipline
No revocation/surrender under investigation or unresolved discipline; Board determines whether prior discipline was corrected and resolved.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
International credentials
Training and credentials outside the United States require a Board-approved credentialing-agency review at applicant expense under NDCC 43-11-25.1; the Board may accept or reject recommendations.
License
License of similar scope with substantially similar/equivalent examination standards; issuing jurisdiction verifies minimum education; all licenses in good standing for at least one year.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial examination after out of state apprenticeship
Application
Apply and pay applicable fees; pass applicable theory, North Dakota law and practical examinations.
Completion
USDOL completion certificate for Board-recognized program; out-of-state applicants document substantially similar minimum hours and obtain Board application approval.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
Supervision
One-to-one Board-approved trainer supervision; thirty related technical hours before client services; no independent apprentice practice.
Training
Esthetics requires at least 2,000 on-the-job learning hours and 250 related technical instruction hours; complete within thirty months, excluding approved leave, averaging eighty combined hours monthly.
Initial examination after out of state school training
Application
Sworn Board application, training proof and required examination/original-license fees; no practice before license issuance.
Eligibility
At least sixteen years old and tenth-grade education or equivalent; school registration under NDCC 43-11-19.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
Out of state documents
Provide official transcript and completion certificate, primary and secondary photo IDs, and high-school transcript, diploma or GED; obtain Board approval of training equivalence.
Practice location
Practice in a licensed establishment; independent practice additionally requires an independent licensee license.
Training
Graduate from 600 hours of Board-approved esthetics school training; school coursework and written/practical final require 75 percent under NDAC 32-04-01-25(1).
Training currency
SFN 61730 (02-2026) says graduate within ten years; NDAC 32-04-01-07 credits completed unlicensed programs for ten years and requires fifty percent additional current curriculum hours thereafter.
Reapplication after more than five years expired
Application
Sworn Board application, training proof and required examination/original-license fees; no practice before license issuance.
Eligibility
At least sixteen years old and tenth-grade education or equivalent; school registration under NDCC 43-11-19.
Expired license
NDCC 43-11-29(5) prohibits reinstatement after more than five years and allows reapplication under initial requirements; Board determines training and application eligibility.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
Practice location
Practice in a licensed establishment; independent practice additionally requires an independent licensee license.
Training
Graduate from 600 hours of Board-approved esthetics school training; school coursework and written/practical final require 75 percent under NDAC 32-04-01-25(1).
Training currency
SFN 61730 (02-2026) says graduate within ten years; NDAC 32-04-01-07 credits completed unlicensed programs for ten years and requires fifty percent additional current curriculum hours thereafter.
Reinstatement after one year and before five years
North Dakota Law & Rules Examination
Expiration window
After one year and before five years; after more than five years the Board cannot reinstate and initial requirements apply.
Fees
Pay required late and current renewal fees; furnish satisfactory proof of passing current law examination.
Reinstatement within one year
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board rule exam demand
NDAC 32-05-01-01(4) states: "The licensee shall make reinstatement application to the board, pay appropriate penalty fee, and retake and pass the most current North Dakota state laws rules and regulations examination." NDCC 43-11-29(3) supplies the higher-ranked fee-only route within one year; the broader rule demand is a condition.
Fees
NDCC 43-11-29(3) requires late and current renewal fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Removal of legacy status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply and pay applicable renewal fee under NDCC 43-11-28(7).
Continuing education
Complete required annual continuing education if applicable.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by school training and examination
Application
Sworn Board application, training proof and required examination/original-license fees; no practice before license issuance.
Eligibility
At least sixteen years old and tenth-grade education or equivalent; school registration under NDCC 43-11-19.
Identity
Provide two valid unexpired identification documents, at least one primary, under NDAC 32-01-03-09; the Board may require originals or further verification.
Practice location
Practice in a licensed establishment; independent practice additionally requires an independent licensee license.
Training
Graduate from 600 hours of Board-approved esthetics school training; school coursework and written/practical final require 75 percent under NDAC 32-04-01-25(1).
Training currency
SFN 61730 (02-2026) says graduate within ten years; NDAC 32-04-01-07 credits completed unlicensed programs for ten years and requires fifty percent additional current curriculum hours thereafter.

Advanced esthetician provisional license

Military or veteran provisional form of the corresponding practice license.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Military provisional issuance: active duty member
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Board-approved application under NDCC 43-11-25.2; the qualified applicant is exempt from examination.
Military status
Active-duty status; current orders or military ID.
Prior license
Active good-standing equivalent practice license in a U.S. state/territory for the two years before application; it remains active and in good standing.
Term
Three-year original term, no fee. Renewable with proof military orders remain active in this state.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Active duty provisional renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Only the active-duty form; military orders remain active in North Dakota and original practice license remains active and in good standing.
Term
Renewable three-year provisional form without fee; veteran forms are nonrenewable.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military provisional issuance: active duty spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Board-approved application under NDCC 43-11-25.2; the qualified applicant is exempt from examination.
Military status
Active-duty status; current orders or military ID. Marriage certificate required; active-duty spouse also documents North Dakota duty station or relocation during foreign deployment.
Prior license
Active good-standing equivalent practice license in a U.S. state/territory for the two years before application; it remains active and in good standing.
Term
Three-year original term, no fee. Renewable with proof military orders remain active in this state.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military provisional issuance: recent veteran
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Board-approved application under NDCC 43-11-25.2; the qualified applicant is exempt from examination.
Military status
Apply within six months following honorable discharge with discharge papers.
Prior license
Active good-standing equivalent practice license in a U.S. state/territory for the two years before application; it remains active and in good standing.
Term
Three-year original term, no fee. Nonrenewable for veteran forms.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military provisional issuance: recent veteran spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Board-approved application under NDCC 43-11-25.2; the qualified applicant is exempt from examination.
Military status
Apply within six months following honorable discharge with discharge papers. Marriage certificate required; active-duty spouse also documents North Dakota duty station or relocation during foreign deployment.
Prior license
Active good-standing equivalent practice license in a U.S. state/territory for the two years before application; it remains active and in good standing.
Term
Three-year original term, no fee. Nonrenewable for veteran forms.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Esthetician provisional license

Military or veteran provisional form of the corresponding practice license.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Military provisional issuance: active duty member
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Board-approved application under NDCC 43-11-25.2; the qualified applicant is exempt from examination.
Military status
Active-duty status; current orders or military ID.
Prior license
Active good-standing equivalent practice license in a U.S. state/territory for the two years before application; it remains active and in good standing.
Term
Three-year original term, no fee. Renewable with proof military orders remain active in this state.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Active duty provisional renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Only the active-duty form; military orders remain active in North Dakota and original practice license remains active and in good standing.
Term
Renewable three-year provisional form without fee; veteran forms are nonrenewable.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military provisional issuance: active duty spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Board-approved application under NDCC 43-11-25.2; the qualified applicant is exempt from examination.
Military status
Active-duty status; current orders or military ID. Marriage certificate required; active-duty spouse also documents North Dakota duty station or relocation during foreign deployment.
Prior license
Active good-standing equivalent practice license in a U.S. state/territory for the two years before application; it remains active and in good standing.
Term
Three-year original term, no fee. Renewable with proof military orders remain active in this state.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military provisional issuance: recent veteran
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Board-approved application under NDCC 43-11-25.2; the qualified applicant is exempt from examination.
Military status
Apply within six months following honorable discharge with discharge papers.
Prior license
Active good-standing equivalent practice license in a U.S. state/territory for the two years before application; it remains active and in good standing.
Term
Three-year original term, no fee. Nonrenewable for veteran forms.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military provisional issuance: recent veteran spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Board-approved application under NDCC 43-11-25.2; the qualified applicant is exempt from examination.
Military status
Apply within six months following honorable discharge with discharge papers. Marriage certificate required; active-duty spouse also documents North Dakota duty station or relocation during foreign deployment.
Prior license
Active good-standing equivalent practice license in a U.S. state/territory for the two years before application; it remains active and in good standing.
Term
Three-year original term, no fee. Nonrenewable for veteran forms.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Student instructor

Board-approved student instructor status and supervised teaching; not independent practice.

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology · Application information

Board approved student instructor enrollment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply before enrollment, pay registration fee, obtain Board approval, and have school certify student name, age and qualifications.
Education
General education equivalent to four high-school years under NDCC 43-11-27(3).
Supervision
Supervised student teaching only, with no independent patron practice. Subsequent instructor exams belong to the instructor issuance route.
Underlying license
Active esthetician or advanced esthetician license for the applicant covered here.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

North Dakota Law & Rules Examination

Provider
Prov, Inc. for the North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology
Format
Computer-based testing, in person or remotely; law questions in English
Passing score
75.00 scaled score (Prov); at least seventy-five percent under NDAC 32-04-01-25
Exam fee
$60 for state law only; $90 for theory and state law in one scheduled session
Practice scope

Inferred from the examination name; the authority has not published an examination outline.

  • Chapter 43-11 — Cosmetologists
  • Chapter 32-01-02 — Definitions
  • Chapter 32-01-03 — General Rules
  • Chapter 32-02-01 — Rules of Cleaning and Disinfecting
  • Chapter 32-03-01 — Establishments
  • Chapter 32-04-01 — Schools
  • Chapter 32-05-01 — Licensees, Instructors, and Student Instructors
  • Chapter 32-06-01 — Apprenticeships
Examination sources

National Esthetics Advanced Practice Practical Examination

This assessment does not have a question bank.

Provider
National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); administered by Test Administration companies and States upon approval and authorization of NIC
Format
Performance (practical) examination in eleven timed core sections evaluated by examiners; candidates bring their own supply kit
Examination sources

National Esthetics Practical Examination

This assessment does not have a question bank.

Provider
National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); administered by Test Administration companies and States upon approval and authorization of NIC
Format
Performance (practical) examination on a mannequin in six timed or untimed core sections evaluated by examiners; States may add NIC additional sections (Eyelash Enhancement, Hair Removal of the Upper Lip with Hard Wax, Hard Wax of the Eyebrow, Particle Microdermabrasion); candidates bring their own supply kit
Examination sources

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