Cosmetology License Renewal in District of Columbia (2026)

Cosmetology license renewal in District of Columbia is handled by the District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology (Dept of Licensing and Consumer Protection), which requires Cosmetologists to renew every 24 months. Below are the renewal deadline rule, continuing-education (CE) hours, fees, and a direct link to the official renewal page — last verified 2026-06-01. This is an unofficial guide; always confirm the details with the board before you file.

District of Columbia Cosmetology renewal at a glance

Renewal cycle	24 months
Deadline rule	Biennial — cosmetology and specialty licenses expire April 15 of even-numbered years regardless of issue date. The renewal period opens 90 days before expiration; licenses unpaid more than 60 days past renewal must be reinstated.
CE hours required	6 hours
Renewal fee	$110.00
Online renewal	Yes
Governing body	District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology (Dept of Licensing and Consumer Protection)

Go to the official District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology (Dept of Licensing and Consumer Protection) renewal page →

Last verified 2026-06-01 from the District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology (Dept of Licensing and Consumer Protection). automated research workflow (official district-of-columbia cosmetology board), confidence high.

Continuing-education requirements for Cosmetologys in District of Columbia

6 CE credits per renewal: 2 hours in a health/safety/welfare course plus 4 hours of general electives from a board-approved provider. The CE requirement is waived for first-time renewals and for owner licenses.

Need approved hours? Compare District of Columbia Cosmetology CE courses (some links are affiliate links).

How to renew your Cosmetology license in District of Columbia

Confirm your renewal deadline and current status on the District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology (Dept of Licensing and Consumer Protection) portal.
Complete the required 6 CE hours.
Submit the renewal application and pay the current fee online.
Keep proof of CE and your renewal confirmation for your records.

Good to know: Renewal is online via an Access DC account on the DLCP portal. Reinstatement for licenses expired 60+ days totals about $210. Fee amounts can differ by license sub-type; verify the cosmetologist tier against the current OPL fee schedule.

Cosmetology license renewal in District of Columbia: frequently asked questions

How often do I renew my Cosmetology license in District of Columbia?

District of Columbia Cosmetology licenses renew every 24 months. Biennial — cosmetology and specialty licenses expire April 15 of even-numbered years regardless of issue date. The renewal period opens 90 days before expiration; licenses unpaid more than 60 days past renewal must be reinstated.

How many CE hours are required to renew an Cosmetology license in District of Columbia?

Approximately 6 continuing-education hours per cycle. 6 CE credits per renewal: 2 hours in a health/safety/welfare course plus 4 hours of general electives from a board-approved provider. The CE requirement is waived for first-time renewals and for owner licenses. Confirm the current requirement with the District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology (Dept of Licensing and Consumer Protection).

Can I renew my District of Columbia Cosmetology license online?

Yes — District of Columbia offers online renewal through the District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology (Dept of Licensing and Consumer Protection). Use the official link on this page.

What happens if I let my District of Columbia Cosmetology license expire?

Practicing on an expired license is generally prohibited and can carry penalties. A late fee of about $50 may apply. Contact the District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology (Dept of Licensing and Consumer Protection) promptly if your license has lapsed.

Renew the same license in another state

All states: Cosmetologist renewal