How Do I Apply for a Cosmetology Instructor License?

Documentation and questions may be submitted by email: plpublic@idph.iowa.gov

The application fee for barber licensure is $60.  You may pay the fee online.  All application fees are nonrefundable.

Provide proof of one of the following:

1. A current Iowa license in the specific practice discipline to be taught, OR
2. A current Iowa license in cosmetology and demonstrated skill and knowledge required to instruct in the specific practice discipline to be taught.

Provide proof of one of the following:

1. Completion of 1,000 hours of instructor training from a board-approved school, OR

2. Two years of active practice in the field of cosmetology within the 6 years directly preceding submission of the application.

Provide proof of completion of a 16-hour advanced instructor’s institute training approved by the board.

Electrology instructor applicants must provide proof of 60 hours of practical
application experience. Proof of experience must be documentation from an employer.

Passing score of 75% or higher on the NIC or national theory instructor exam.

Licensure in Another State if applicable: Applicants that have previously been licensed, registered or certified in another state must provide official verification of an active license in another state.  The applicant must have held the active license for 12 of the last 24 months directly preceding the date of application.

• The license verification must include the following: 
  • Issue date
  • Expiration date
  • Status of license including a reference to any pending or past disciplinary action.

The verification may be printed from another state licensing board’s website if it contains all of the information noted above. If an online verification is not available, the verification must be sent directly from the licensing board(s).