Career Opportunity
- By Kay Holtz
Licensed Cosmetologist Requirement in Minnesota: Esthetician, Nail Tech, Lash Tech, Cosmetologist
Stay Licensed
Cosmetology is changing in Minnesota. New laws require cosmetologists to undergo ongoing education and new examination centers for initial operators. The state is also fining salon managers and operators for not displaying their licenses, having expired licenses, and other violations. Duluth and Minnesota have the most cosmetologist positions per capita, according to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. These two cities also provide cosmetologists with the highest salaries and most positions in the state. The Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners licenses cosmetologists. However, you must first finish hair, skin, makeup, and nail care instruction. Licensed salon managers, beauty school managers, and instructors are also available.Step 1. Minnesota Cosmetology School
Minnesota cosmetologists must have a high school certificate or GED and 1550 hours of instruction from a board-approved school (BCE). These Minnesota cities have approved programs: Hibbing \sBloomington Park Rapids Brainerd Rochester \sCloud Plymouth Blaine \sAlexandria St. Louis Park Some Minnesota BCE-approved cosmetology schools demand an admissions interview and entrance exam. Coursework includes classroom and client work. Classes include:- Shampooing
- Cosmetology history
- Hair and scalp care
- Hair styling
- Professionalism
- Hair dyeing
- Hair dyes
- Infection control
- Hairdressing
- A&P
- Cosmetics
- Chemistry \sManicures
- Salons
- Minnesota statutes
Step 2. Pass Minnesota Cosmetologist Exams
After completing Minnesota cosmetology school, you can take the exams. The written Minnesota Cosmetology Exam (MCE) has two parts: General and State. For the exam and license, you must pass both portions. The General and State exams cost $60. The three-hour General MCE has 155 multiple-choice questions. The State MCE has 35 multiple-choice questions and an hour to finish. For exam bookings, call Pearson Vue at (877) 538-3417 or visit www.pearsonvue.com/mn/cosmetology.Step 3. Get Minnesota Cosmetologist Licensure
After passing both MCE courses, you can apply for a Minnesota cosmetologist Initial Operator license. Application for Initial Operator License. The Board of Cosmetologist Examiners requires a check or money order for the $139 application, licensing, and surcharge fees. The following documents must accompany your application:- High school, GED, or transcript copy
- Original BCE-approved cosmetology school skills/readiness certificate Original 1550-hour course completion certificate
- You passed the MCE General section less than a year ago.
- You passed the State MCE less than a year ago.
- Before sending your application and paperwork to the BCE, make a copy for your records. After this, send everything the Board of Cosmetologist Examiners, 2829 University Ave SE, Suite 710, Minneapolis, MN 55414.
Step 4. Continuing Education for Minnesota Cosmetologists
Congratulations! Minnesota licensed cosmetologist! Know license maintenance rules. Your cosmetology license renews every three years. Since August 1, 2014, you must complete four hours of BCE-approved CE every three years to keep your license. Three CE hours must be in health, safety, and sanitation, and one in Minnesota laws and rules. Approved continuing education providers are here. Minnesota localities offer cosmetology continuing education:- Minneapolis
- Worthington \sBrainerd
- Duluth
- Shakopee \sRichfield
- Mankato \sWinona
- Lakeville
- Pipestone
- Jackson
- Bloomington \sCloud
- Thief Falls
- Bemidji
