How to Apply

The Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers oversees licensure for Cosmetology and Barber schools: 

If you would like to apply for licensure, it is required that you file with the Secretary of State. Review the requirements and the step-by-step guides below. 

  • Licensure requires a completed, signed, and notarized application along with the required fee.  
  • Refer to the specific instructions for the application depending on your application type. 
  • If you have recently completed cosmetology school or an apprenticeship, please do not apply until you have passed your state board examinations, and include your score reports with your application.   
  • Veterans Preference Points: If you are claiming veteran’s preference points, you must enclose a copy of your DD-214 showing that you served during a period of conflict or war for a minimum of ninety (90) days 
  • You must submit all the required documentation and fees in order to be considered for licensure. 

See specific instructions for your application depending on the license and application type:

Cosmetology and Barber School Licenses

Application for School Change of Name

Reinstatement

After you Apply – What to Expect

  • Processing Time – Applications are generally processed within 20 business days of receipt, excluding weekends and holidays. Applications are individually evaluated by the Board in order of date received, and processing times can vary based on individual circumstances and volume. 
    • If you receive a deficiency letter, your 20 day count restarts when the Board receives your correct and complete documentation.
    • Please Note – Incomplete applications may be withdrawn if noted deficiencies are not satisfied within 60 days of said notification. If your application is withdrawn, you will be required to restart the application process to be considered for licensure, to include submission of all required documents and fees. 
    • Completed applications will be initially reviewed by Board staff and may be reviewed by the Board at an upcoming Board Meeting. Applications must be complete and received at least 15 days prior to a Board Meeting to be added to that meeting’s agenda. Otherwise, the application will be reviewed at the next Board meeting.
  • Check Application Status >>
  • Keep Your Contact Info Up to Date
    • Be sure the email address you include for yourself on your application is correct and current. Email is the primary means of communication used by the Board.  
    • Additionally, it is important for applicants/licensees to update their email address with the Board just as they would update their physical and mailing addresses.
  • Wait For It
    • You may not legally perform services until you hold an active license. 
    • Staff will communicate with you regarding the status of your application.

Fees

School License

$300

Renewal

$300

School Change Of Name

$100

Late Renewal – (within 30 days)

$600

Application for Reinstatement

$1,000

Processing Fees - Effective 3/15/2022

  • Online processing fee: $5.00
  • Mail-In processing fee: $10.00

Cosmetology and Barber School Licenses

If you would like to apply to operate a School of Cosmetology, Barber, Hair Design, Esthetics, or Nail Care in the State of Georgia, you are required to apply for a license to operate the school.

Application for School Change of Name

If you would like to change the name of your school, please submit this application.  

Reinstatement

This application is for licensees whose license has Lapsed or has been previously Revoked.

How to File

To file online:

Once your checklist is completed, please create an account and upload all documents through the online portal.

Currently, the Board can only accept Endorsement application by mail. 

To apply by mail: 

Once your checklist is completed, please mail all documents to: 

Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers 
237 Coliseum Drive 
Macon, Georgia 31217 

MAIL APPLICATION WITH PAYMENT IN A 9x12 or LARGER ENVELOPE – DO NOT STAPLE pages or check/money order. Do not fold pages of the application. Make check/money order payable to Georgia Secretary of State and submit to Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers, 237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, GA 31217. 

Contact Georgia Board of Cosmetology and Barbers