Cosmetology License Renewal in Washington (2026)

Cosmetology license renewal in Washington is handled by the Washington State Department of Licensing (Cosmetology Program), 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.

Washington Cosmetology renewal at a glance

Renewal cycle	24 months
Deadline rule	A cosmetologist license must be renewed every 2 years. Renewal can be done up to 120 days before the expiration date, and a late fee applies if the license is not renewed before it expires.
CE hours required	None required
Renewal fee	$66.00
Online renewal	Yes
Governing body	Washington State Department of Licensing (Cosmetology Program)

Go to the official Washington State Department of Licensing (Cosmetology Program) renewal page →

Last verified 2026-06-01 from the Washington State Department of Licensing (Cosmetology Program). automated research workflow (official washington cosmetology board), confidence high.

Continuing-education requirements for Cosmetologys in Washington

Washington does not require any continuing education to renew a cosmetologist license. The official DOL renewal page lists only fee payment, updated contact info, and legal background questions as renewal requirements, with no CE or training-hour component.

Need approved hours? Compare Washington Cosmetology CE courses (some links are affiliate links).

How to renew your Cosmetology license in Washington

Confirm your renewal deadline and current status on the Washington State Department of Licensing (Cosmetology Program) portal.
Submit the renewal application and pay the current fee online.
Keep proof of CE and your renewal confirmation for your records.

Good to know: License is issued/renewed by the WA Dept. of Licensing Cosmetology Program (not a separate independent board). Online renewal is via SecureAccess Washington (SAW); mail renewal is also available. The $131 figure is the published "Late Renewal" fee on the official fees table; reinstatement of a longer-expired license may differ. Initial license fee is $35 and reciprocity is $60 per the same fee table. Fees verified June 2026.

Cosmetology license renewal in Washington: frequently asked questions

How often do I renew my Cosmetology license in Washington?

Washington Cosmetology licenses renew every 24 months. A cosmetologist license must be renewed every 2 years. Renewal can be done up to 120 days before the expiration date, and a late fee applies if the license is not renewed before it expires.

How many CE hours are required to renew an Cosmetology license in Washington?

Washington does not require continuing-education hours to renew a standard Cosmetology license. Washington does not require any continuing education to renew a cosmetologist license. The official DOL renewal page lists only fee payment, updated contact info, and legal background questions as renewal requirements, with no CE or training-hour component. Confirm the current rule with the Washington State Department of Licensing (Cosmetology Program).

Can I renew my Washington Cosmetology license online?

Yes — Washington offers online renewal through the Washington State Department of Licensing (Cosmetology Program). Use the official link on this page.

What happens if I let my Washington Cosmetology license expire?

Practicing on an expired license is generally prohibited and can carry penalties. A late fee of about $131 may apply. Contact the Washington State Department of Licensing (Cosmetology Program) promptly if your license has lapsed.

Renew the same license in another state

All states: Cosmetologist renewal