How To Become a Licensed Cosmetologist in Idaho

Are you trying to find your next career path? Whether you’ve been out of high school for a while or just graduated, consider exploring the beauty industry! Becoming a cosmetologist can open many doors and allow you to make an impact on those around you. In order to become a licensed cosmetologist, you’ll need to meet several requirements.

1. Graduate From an Approved School

The first step to any cosmetologist’s journey is learning the trade. You’ll need to graduate from an Idaho-approved cosmetology school just like Austin Kade Academy! Our program includes an education in hair, skin, and nails. Learning a variety of things can help you grow and improve your skills.

You can learn:

• Hair styling and cutting
• Hair coloring
• Manicures and Pedicures
• Skin care
• Communication skills
• Business skills
• And more!

Not only can you learn all that, you can also learn how to properly care for your instruments and about the biology of hair itself. Learn about Everything You Need to Start Your Cosmetology Education at Austin Kade Academy.

Once you have completed the required 1600 hours, it’s time for the next step.

2. Sit for the State Exam

The National-Interstate Council (NIC) Exam is a two-part process. It is required to pass the written test and the practical test in order to become a licensed cosmetologist. Here are some things you may need to know to help you get to the next step in your journey.

Prepare for the Exam

The first step is applying for the exam and scheduling a time to sit for it. . You can submit a physical application, but if you are not able to get an application from your school, you can also apply online.

You can also see a list of available dates and times for the written and practical exam on ISO Quality Testing. Each portion of the test can take a different amount of time and may even be administered at separate locations. Make sure you allow yourself enough time between each exam if you decide to take them both on the same day. ISO Quality Testing suggests that you take the practical exam first.

What You Should Bring

You’ll need to bring your own equipment to the exam and set up your area based on how you work best. Make sure that you have the items listed, including:
Water
Picture ID
Supply kit
Mannequin head
Mannequin hand

You should also make sure to read the ID Handbook & Cosmetology Practical CIB and NIC Cosmetology Written CIB to follow their guidelines and instructions. Take the time to read it carefully and find any questions you may have.

NIC Written Exam

This exam takes 90 minutes to complete and will test you on your technical knowledge of cosmetology. Areas you could be tested in are:
Scientific concepts
Hair care and services
Skin care and services
Nail care and services

NIC Practical Exam

This exam can take four to five hours to complete. The goal of this exam is to test your practical skills and see just how much you learned. It will prove that you are able to apply that knowledge. If you are able to apply them, some of the core things you may be tested on are:
Hair shaping
Chemical waving
Chemical relaxing
Hair lightening and hair coloring
Thermal curling

3. Apply For a License

Getting your license can be exciting. It marks the finish line to your cosmetology school journey and the beginning of an exciting new career! You can find the correct form here to apply to get your license.

How To Get Started

We know that these are unprecedented times. We want you to know that at Austin Kade Academy, our team is always here if you want to learn what this time could mean for your future in beauty. Contact us whenever you’re ready to talk with us more about how you can become a cosmetologist. Stay safe and healthy, everyone!

*Financial aid is available to those who qualify.