Cosmetologist License Cost in Virginia 2026: $210 Fees, $37K Salary
Getting a Cosmetologist license in Virginia costs $210 upfront. At state-adjusted salaries, that pays back in 0.2 months.
Cosmetologist License in Virginia — Key Numbers
$210
Upfront Cost
$37K
Median Salary (Licensed)
$55
Renewal (every 2 yrs)
0.2 mo
Payback Period
Salary data: BLS OEWS 2024 state estimates. Fees: state licensing board schedules.
Cosmetologist License Cost Breakdown — Virginia
Exam fee
$95
Application fee
$65
Initial license fee
$50
Total upfront
$210
Renewal fee (every 2 yrs)
$55
CE hours required per cycle
16 hours
Salary without license (Virginia)
$26,400/yr
Salary with license (Virginia)
$37,400/yr
5-year net ROI
$55K
Licensing body: Virginia Board of Cosmetology. Verify current fees before applying — schedules change.
Cosmetologist License in Virginia — What to Know
Virginia requires 1,000–1,500 hours of cosmetology school before you can sit for the state board exam. The $37K median for licensed cosmetologists in Virginia spans a wide range from commission stylists to booth renters. Booth rental rates in Virginia's established markets run $150–$350/week, with income tied directly to client retention. The license fees are minimal — cosmetology school tuition ($6,000–$14,000) is where the real cost sits.