Do You Have to Have a License to Do Eyelash Extensions?

February 18, 2021 by The Lash Professional. 

Do you have to have a license to do eyelash extensions?


Maybe it’s a nervous client or a girlfriend who wants to become a lash artist who’s curious about this question. Or, maybe you’re the curious lash-loving lady that wants to know more about lashing. 


Regardless of who you are, we get it! Lashing is a fun profession that allows you to be your own boss lady.


So, to answer your question: yes, you do need a license. However, the answer is much more nuanced and we’ll break it down for you! Don’t worry, lash-loving babes, we have the low-down on lash technician qualifications. Take a moment to read about what you need to know before undertaking your eyelash extension journey.

Lash Extension Qualifications

Being a lash artist is a rewarding experience — I mean, we have the power to beautify a community! However, you’ll need to jump through some hoops to get there. And by hoops, we mean eyelash extension state requirements.

So what exactly are the eyelash extension certification requirements? Well, that depends where you and your lovely lash dreams are located. Yes, requirements for lash artists vary by state, and every location will have different eyelash extension state requirements. But there are certain things that pretty much every soon-to-be lash artist should expect.

What To Expect

    First off, in select states, you’ll need to get your cosmetologist or esthetician license from the Board of Cosmetology. This typically involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and potentially demonstrating a certain number of practice hours. However, the specific details differ based on the state (which is why we put together the handy chart below!).

    Can You Get Your Eyelash Extensions Certification Without a Beauty License?

    This is a question that some aspiring lash techs wonder about. After all, if you already know how to do lashes, do you really need a license? Not so fast, hun. Here are a few reasons why licensing is important:

    1. Licensing helps you come across as trustworthy to clients. Most people won’t just let anyone near their precious peepers. So building up clientele and a great reputation starts with displaying your qualifications.
    2. Most eyelash extension training courses require each student to show their cosmetologist or esthetician license before enrolling. This means that if you want to learn from the best and hone your skills, you need your license.
    3. A license is required in most states, and it’s worth the investment. The lash certification process is like applying a new set of lash extensions — the process takes time and requires focus. But the result is soooo worth it. Your ability to earn more and build a career is enhanced with a license.

    Now that we’ve answered, “Do you have to have a license to do eyelash extensions?”, it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty of lash artist requirements. Check out eyelash extension state requirements and regulations that you should be aware of before pursuing a career as a lash artist below.

    State Regulations, Training Programs, and More!

    As mentioned, you must have an esthetician or cosmetology license to do eyelash extensions in most states. Additionally, some states will allow licensed medical and dental professionals. Not to mention, eyelash extension training programs may require you to have an esthetician or cosmetology license to even participate!


    This regulation is determined by the state Board of Cosmetology — check with your state’s board to determine your eyelash extension state requirements.

    State (In alphabetical order)

    Which License is Required?

    More information

    AlabamaNot clear, consult state boardhttp://aboc.state.al.us
    AlaskaHair stylist, Estheticians, Medical Licensehttps://www.commerce.alaska.gov/
    ArizonaCosmetologist, Aestheticianhttp://boc.az.gov
    ArkansasCosmetologist, Aestheticians, Barber, medical license in a medical facilityhttp://healthy.arkansas.gov
    CaliforniaCosmetologist, Esthetician, those working under physicianshttp://barbercosmo.ca.gov
    ColoradoCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://cdn.colorado.gov
    ConnecticutNot clear, consult state boardhttp://ct.gov
    DelawareNo Licence Requiredhttp://delcode.delaware.gov
    DCCosmetologist, Esthetician, Medical Licensehttp://dcregs.dc.gov
    FloridaCosmetologist, Esthetician, Full Specialist, Facial Specialist, Medical Licensehttp://myfloridalicense.com
    GeorgiaMaster Cosmetologist, Esthetician, medical license in medical facilityhttp://sos.ga.gov
    HawaiiCosmetologist, Esthetician, Barberhttp://hawaii.gov
    IdahoNot clear, consult state boardhttp://ibol.idaho.gov
    IllinoisCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://ilga.gov
    IndianaCosmetologist, Estheticianhttps://in.gov/pla/cosmo.htm
    IowaCosmetologist, Esthetician, Must be performed in licensed salonhttp://law.justia.com
    KansasCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://accesskansas.org
    KentuckyCosmetologist, Estheticianhttps://kbc.ky.gov
    LouisianaCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://lsbc.louisiana.gov/
    MaineCosmetologist, Aestheticianhttp://mainelegislature.org
    MarylandNot clear, consult state boardhttp://dlslibrary.state.md.us
    MassachusettsCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://malegislature.gov
    MichiganCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://legislature.mi.gov
    MinnesotaCosmetologist, Estheticianhttps://mn.gov/elicense/
    MississippiCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://msbc.state.ms.us
    MissouriNot clear, consult state boardhttp://pr.mo.gov
    MontanaCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://leg.mt.gov
    NebraskaCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://dhhs.ne.gov
    NevadaCosmetologist, Aestheticianhttps://www.nvcosmo.com/
    New HampshireCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://gencourt.state.nh.us
    New JerseyCosmetologist (must be working in a salon). Medical license under a doctorhttp://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/
    New MexicoEstheticianhttp://www.rld.state.nm.us/
    New YorkCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://dos.ny.gov
    North CarolinaCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://ncga.state.nc.us
    North DakotaCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://legis.nd.gov
    OhioCosmetologist or Estheticianhttp://codes.ohio.gov
    OklahomaCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://ok.gov
    OregonCosmetologist, Esthetician, Medical Licensehttp://www.oregon.gov/oha/
    PennsylvaniaCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://dos.state.pa.us
    Rhode IslandCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://health.ri.gov
    South CarolinaCosmetologist, Estheticianhttp://scstatehouse.gov
    South DakotaCosmetologist, Esthetician, Must be performed in a licensed salonhttp://dlr.sd.gov
    TennesseeCosmetologist, Aestheticianhttps://www.tn.gov
    TexasCosmetologist, Esthetician, or Eyelash Extension Specialisthttps://www.tdlr.texas.gov/
    UtahCosmetologist, Barber, Estheticianhttps://le.utah.gov/
    VermontCosmetology, Estheticianhttps://legislature.vermont.gov/
    VirginiaEsthetician, Cosmetologisthttp://www.dpor.virginia.gov/
    WashingtonCosmetologists, Estheticianhttps://www.dol.wa.gov/business/
    cosmetology/
    West VirginiaCosmetologists, Estheticianhttp://wvbbc.com
    WisconsinNo Licence Requiredhttp://wisconsin.gov
    WyomingCosmetologists, Estheticianhttp://cosmetology.wy.gov

    Why Do You Need a State License for Eyelash Extensions?

    The license is a legal designation granted by state authorities.

    In this case, the state Board of Cosmetology defines the educational requirements needed to become a licensed technician. Often, your state may require anywhere from 500 to 2,400 classroom hours. Then, you must demonstrate adequate proficiency in a series of one or more tests facilitated by the state.

    This process ensures that you have the appropriate knowledge to safely perform different procedures like eyelash extension application.

    After, and only after, in states that require a cosmetology or esthetician license, you may complete an eyelash training program.

    Again, not every state will require that you participate in a training program. (Reference your state’s Board of Cosmetology to practice within the scope of the law). Nevertheless, it is beneficial to attend an eyelash training program to learn proper application techniques and aftercare.

    You will learn different things based on your program. However, standard topics typically include:

    • Infectious and contagious diseases of the eye
    • Allergic reactions
    • Proper sanitation practices
    • Client preparation
    • Lash bonding and effective bonding tips
    • Occupational health and safety practices
    • Eyelash extension application procedures
    • Eyelash extension isolation and separation procedures

    Ultimately, this process allows you to lash with confidence and provide your clients with the best services! Find an eyelash extension training course near you with our handy guide to in-person courses.

    The Lash Professional In-Person Courses

    Across the entire country, lash babes have the opportunity to meet up with each other and learn all about eyelash extensions from our experts at The Lash Professional. You won’t want to miss out, so be sure to check out all of the in-person courses we offer and find the one that’s closest to you. We can’t wait to see you!


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    Become a Lash Professional

    Long story short: Yes, you do need a license to do eyelash extensions in most states!

    Start your lashing journey with The Lash Professional’s eyelash extension training program.

    This immersive, hands-on training provides you the skills and knowledge to apply lashes to anyone with confidence. Learn how to properly stock your professional eyelash extensions kit, how to clean eyelash extensions, how to care for lash extensions, and more!

    What are you waiting for? Join The Lash Professionals! Contact us today to learn about their exclusive online eyelash training program!

    How Long Do Eyelash Extensions Take?