New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling

General Questions

1. Can I practice cosmetology and hairstyling while attending school?

   Yes, if you hold a student permit, which can be obtained once you have completed half of the required training.

2. I have a beautician/barber's license from another state; can I work in New Jersey?

   No. In order to work in New Jersey you need to have a license issued by the New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling. You must submit an "out-of-state" application and required documentation and pass the Board's examination. The application must be requested in writing and will be mailed to you.

3. I was a hairstylist in another country. Do I have to go back to school if I want to work in New Jersey?

   No. If you come from another country, you must submit an "out-of-country" application and the required documentation, and you also must pass the Board's examination. The application must be requested in writing and will be mailed to you.

4. Can I operate a beauty shop with my manicurist's license?

   Yes, but you must apply for a shop license, hold a current manicurist's license issued by the New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling, and have at least three years of work experience as a licensed manicurist or cosmetologist.

5. Am I required to hold a cosmetology and hairstyling license to open a beauty shop?

   No. Your obligation is to hire a manager who has at least three years of experience as a licensed cosmetologist-hairstylist and to apply for a shop license.

6. Is "in-house" practice illegal?

   Yes, but there are some exceptions. Be sure you check the statutes (N.J.S.A 45:5B-7 and 5B-8) or call the Board for more information.

7. Can I have my temporary permit extended?

   No. The temporary permit is valid for 120 days and may be issued onlyone time while you wait to be scheduled for the examination for licensure. Once your permit expires, if you do not have your license, you must stop practicing until you receive your license.

8. Can I open a beauty shop in my house?

   Yes, with the permission of the city or town zoning official, and if you hold a current license, you may open a beauty shop in your house. But remember, you also must obtain a shop license issued by the New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling and follow the regulations pertaining to such practice.

9. I am graduating from high school this year and have some training hours in cosmetology and hairstyling. Can I complete my training after graduation?

   Absolutely. You may continue your training in a vocational school or in a private school licensed by the Board. If you choose the second option, you must obtain certification of your hours from your high school; your new school must submit the certification to the Board with your student registration application.

10. Will I lose my California license if I become licensed in New Jersey?

    No. You can be licensed in as many states as you want, as long as you follow the renewal regulations. If you move out of state, you may also keep your New Jersey license valid by renewing it every two (2) years.

11. Do I have to take the shaving test if I am a beautician?

    You will only be required to take the shaving test if you are pursuing a teacher's licensure.

12. Are there disciplinary actions or penalties for unlawful or unlicensed practice of cosmetology?

    Yes. The Board may investigate and penalize those who engage in the unlawful, including unlicensed, practice of cosmetology. In addition to other penalties, which include but are not limited to, the suspension or revocation of a license, an individual may be subject to a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 for a first violation and not more than $20,000 for each additional second and subsequent violations of a law or regulation administered by the Board. For example, any individual, who is not a Board licensee, and performs cosmetology services for payment, is engaging in unlicensed practice subject to a penalty. Likewise, any licensee engaging in practices or other services that are noncompliant with existing law or regulation may also be subject to penalties. Violations, and corresponding penalties, will be determined on a case-by-case basis.