North Carolina cosmetology and salon license basics
The individual cosmetology license and the salon license in North Carolina, summarized from the state board with a link to every source.
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Check before you file. We summarized these rules from each state’s official licensing board in October 2026 and link every source. Requirements, fees and forms change, and cities and counties often add their own license or registration. This is general information, not legal advice.
North Carolina cosmetology license
Who licenses it: North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners
| License | Cosmetologist license. |
|---|---|
| Training hours | 1,500 hours in an approved cosmetic art school curriculum, or 1,200 school hours followed by an apprenticeship. |
| Exams | A state board exam with a passing score of 75% (70% on the apprentice route). |
Source: North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners, checked October 2026.
Opening a salon in North Carolina
A Cosmetic Art Shop license, applied for before you open. An unannounced inspection follows 30 to 45 days after opening, and new shops need a score of at least 90%.
Barbers are licensed by a separate North Carolina Board of Barber and Electrolysis Examiners. (barber board)
Register the business
You file Articles of Organization (Form L-01) with a North Carolina registered agent and office. The NC SOS lists the fee as $125 (checked October 2026).
Source: North Carolina Secretary of State, Business Registration Division, checked October 2026.
You’ll also want a free EIN from the IRS (apply online) and a business bank account.
Once you’re open
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Other states
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Questions people ask
How many hours do I need for a cosmetology license in North Carolina?
1,500 hours in an approved cosmetic art school curriculum, or 1,200 school hours followed by an apprenticeship. Confirm the current requirement with North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners.
Do I need a separate license to open a salon in North Carolina?
A Cosmetic Art Shop license, applied for before you open. An unannounced inspection follows 30 to 45 days after opening, and new shops need a score of at least 90%.
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