How to Get Your Cosmetology License in Indiana

Have you always dreamed of becoming a cosmetologist? Let’s turn your dreams into a reality! Pursuing a career in cosmetology can be an exciting step, but also overwhelming when it comes to knowing all the steps you need to take. We’re here to help ease your nerves by giving you a step-by-step guide to getting your cosmetology license in Indiana! Every state has its own requirements, so let’s dive into what’s required in Indiana!

Attend Cosmetology School

Your first step to getting your cosmetology license is finding a school that you love. At Don Roberts School of Hair Design, our mission is simple; quality education, practice, state exams, and employment. Our goal is to prepare our students for their future in cosmetology!

To get your cosmetology license, you need at least 1500 hours of training. Our cosmetology program is 1500 clock hours, with scheduling options available. As a smaller school in Indiana, our students are able to receive one-on-one attention from our experienced instructors. This will give our students an in-depth understanding of techniques. Along with classroom learning, our students can expect to work with guests – under supervision of licensed professionals – to receive the hands-on training they need!

Our curriculum covers the following basic skills:

• Shampooing and scalp massage
• Hair coloring, cutting, and styling
• Facials
• Makeup application
• Manicures and pedicures
• Career planning

Pass The Written Exam

Now that you’ve graduated from a cosmetology school, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test! The written exam will take about 135 minutes to complete and consists of 110 questions on the following topics:

• Safety
• Sanitation and Disinfection
• Client Contact
• Structure of Hair
• Hair Type
• Shampoo and Scalp Analysis
• Styling
• Haircutting
• Hair Coloring and Bleaching
• Permanent Waving
• Chemical Straightening and Relaxing
• Esthetics
• Nails

Complete Licensure Application

First time applicants will apply for licensure on examination. To do this you must:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Have completed 10th grade
• Submit Licensure Application
• Submit application fee

Get To Work

Now that you have your license, it’s time to get to work! This is where the fun begins! Whether you want to work in a salon or become a freelance professional, there are many career opportunities available to you! Here are just a few you can pursue after graduating and getting your license:

• Hair Stylist / Colorist
• Makeup Artist
• Personal Hair Stylist / Makeup Artist
• Theatrical Hair Stylist / Makeup Artist
• Platform Artist
• Cosmetology Educator
• And much more!

Working in cosmetology is a rewarding career and one that many people find joy in. We offer career resources for future graduates in hopes that they’ll find a career they love. During the last 20% of the program, you can participate in interviews, internships, and off-campus job shadowing. We’re excited to see where you take your career!

Renew License

Indiana cosmetology licenses expire on August 1 every 4 years. The cost to renew your license is $40. Although continuing education is not required for license renewal in Indiana, we always recommend continuing your training and education as you go throughout your career. It’s never a bad idea to learn new skills, tips, and techniques. When you continue your education, you’re doing yourself a favor. You’ll be able to provide more services which will give you higher client retention and satisfaction!

Ready To Get Started?

Are you ready to start your dream career in cosmetology? If you’re ready to take the next steps, contact us with any questions you may have. Don Roberts School of Hair Design is dedicated to training future beauty professionals who are serious about starting their careers. We’d love to set up a campus tour and talk to you about a future in the beauty industry! We are more than happy to help you reach your goals. We can’t wait to hear from you and get you started on your dream career!