If you’re thinking of leaving it all behind and giving this beauty thing a try, you’re probably wondering how long it’ll take to become a full-blown cosmetologist in the great state of Idaho.
The good news is you won’t need to be away at college for four whole years to get the training you need. With the right cosmetology school behind you, you can have a shiny new career in the beauty industry in well under two years.
So, let’s get started and break it down.
Idaho’s Cosmetology Training Requirements – 1,600 Hours
If you want to get your Idaho state cosmetology license, you’ll need to get through 1,600 hours of training at an approved cosmetology school before you can even think about taking the state licensing exams.
Now, these hours aren’t just spent sitting in a classroom listening to some guy drone on and on – no way. It’s a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on practice that’ll help get you ready to hit the ground running in the beauty industry.
How Many Months Is 1,600 Hours?
Now, this is the million-dollar question – how long is 1,600 hours going to take?
Well, it depends on how fast you choose to go. Going to school full-time gets you finished up way faster than trying to balance classes with work or family commitments.
For example, Austin Kade Academy‘s full-time cosmetology program is 1,600 hours and can be finished in as little as 45 weeks. If you can only go to school at night, that’s okay too – we’ve got options for you here.
While every student is different, most full-time students finish up in about a year.
What Will You Learn in Cosmetology School?
Cosmetology school isn’t just about cutting hair, you know. It’s about learning a whole lot more – like how to give a killer facial, or how to put together a business that runs smoothly.
Throughout your training, you’ll learn all sorts of valuable skills, like:
- Hair cutting and styling
- Hair coloring and chemical services
- Texture services
- Nail care – because who doesn’t love a good manicure?
- Basic skincare and facials
- Sanitation and safety procedures
- Client communication
- Professional business skills
By the time you’re done, you’ll have real experience working with clients and be ready to take on the written and practical portions of the Idaho licensing exam.
What’s Next After Cosmetology School?
Just finishing school is a major accomplishment, but you’re not quite done yet.
After finishing your 1,600 hours of training, you’ll need to pass the Idaho state licensing exams before you can start working.
And when you do start working, the possibilities are endless. You might choose to:
- Be a hair stylist
- Be a color specialist
- Be a salon manager
- Be your own salon owner
- Be a platform artist
- Be a product representative
- Be a beauty educator
The beauty industry is a wide open field with tons of opportunities for growth – and it starts with getting trained in the right way.
Choosing the Right Cosmetology School
While every approved cosmetology program in Idaho meets the state hour requirements, the quality of the program can vary big time.
When you’re looking at programs, think about what’s going to give you the best experience – things like:
- Hands-on learning opportunities
- Experienced instructors
- Student support
- Flexible scheduling
- Financial aid options
- Preparation for state licensing exams
Choose a school that’s going to get you ready for the real world – that’s what we say here at Austin Kade Academy.
Starting Your Cosmetology Journey at Austin Kade Academy
If you’re ready to get started on your path to becoming a cosmetologist, Austin Kade Academy is here to help. We offer a comprehensive 1,600-hour cosmetology program that can be finished in as little as 45 weeks.
Students get hands-on training from experienced instructors while developing the technical, creative, and professional skills they need to succeed in the beauty industry. We’ve got full-time day classes and night school options, and we’ll even help you figure out how to pay for it if you need to.
Whether you want to work as a hairstylist, color specialist, or even own your own salon one day – the journey starts with a quality cosmetology education. Passing all of the Idaho cosmetology license requirements – including passing the written and practical exams with the cosmetology services licensing board – is just the ticket to a rewarding career in the beauty industry.




