So you’re a licensed esthetician and are considering doing business in another state. Just because you have a license in your state does not mean that you can go and practice esthetics somewhere else. Whether you’re moving or are looking to expand your service area, there are regulations you must follow to practice esthetics in another state legally. Here’s what you need to know about transferring your license to another state.
Transferring Your Esthetician License: What You Need to Know
While the training estheticians receive is similar in each state, licensing requirements vary across states. Just because you have an esthetics license doesn’t mean that you are licensed to provide services in other states. Esthetics licenses aren’t valid across state lines.
Can You Transfer Your Esthetician License to Another State?
Whether you’re looking to move or expand your business into a new state, you may be wondering if you can simply transfer your license. Simply put, it doesn’t work that way—instead of transferring your license, you will need to apply for a license in another state.
Esthetician License Reciprocity: How it Works
Some states offer license reciprocity, meaning that they will accept a valid esthetics license from any state. Keep in mind that while these states will accept your license, it won’t be automatically transferred. To provide your services, you will need to apply through the state’s licensing agency and meet any additional requirements.
In other states, you will only be eligible to apply for a license if your training hours meet or exceed their requirements. View the full list of license reciprocity requirements by state here: Esthetician License Requirements by State. While you can’t really transfer your license to another state, keep in mind that it is easier to reach application requirements in a state that offers license reciprocity.
This reciprocity ensures that every esthetician is up to each state’s standards. By ensuring that your training is equivalent to the training that other estheticians in that state have received, the state can maintain fair industry competition while also ensuring that clients receive the best quality care.
Can You Have an Esthetician License in Two States?
Yes, you can hold an esthetics license in multiple states. When you’re looking at and choosing an esthetics program and are debating between locations, you want to be strategic. Choose one that has the most number of training hours—this can make it easier to find license reciprocity should you need to move to another state.
How to Transfer Your Esthetician License
Now that you have an understanding of license reciprocity and state licensing requirements, here’s a step-by-step process on how to go about “transferring” your esthetician license:
- Do your research. Before you do anything, check the state’s requirements to verify whether they offer license reciprocity and their requirements for applying for a license in their state. This step is crucial to ensure you don’t waste time and go through the hard work of transferring your license for nothing.
- Apply for a license in your desired state. Apply for a license through your desired state’s licensing agency. You may have to pay a fee and meet other requirements such as providing a copy of your license or an endorsement letter.
- Wait for your license to be approved. After you’ve applied for your license, you just need to wait for it to be approved before you start practicing in a new state!
How to Transfer Your Esthetician License to Indiana?
To transfer your esthetician license to Indiana, you must meet specific requirements set by the Indiana Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners.
First, your current license must be from a state that requires at least 700 hours of training, aligning with Indiana’s minimum standard. If your training hours fall short of 700, you may substitute 1 year of licensed practice for 100 hours of education, provided you’ve completed at least 400 hours of training. Additionally, your state must require a passing score of at least 70% on both the written and practical exams. If you have a conviction record, you’ll need to include a copy that shows the disposition of the conviction.
Once you’ve confirmed eligibility, submit an application for licensure by endorsement, including proof of education, license verification, and any required fees. Indiana may also require you to pass a state-specific law exam and complete a background check. By meeting these requirements, you can successfully transfer your license and continue practicing esthetics in Indiana. For more details, visit the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency.
How to Transfer Your Esthetician License to Illinois?
To transfer your esthetician license to Illinois, the state offers a straightforward process through licensure by endorsement. If you’ve completed an esthetics program and are currently licensed in another state, you can apply for licensure in Illinois.
The application requires you to provide certification of your current license from your home state, documentation of the training hours and exams you’ve completed, and official transcripts from the esthetics school you attended. Illinois does not require additional exams or training if your home state’s requirements are equivalent. Simply submit the application along with the necessary documents and fees to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Once approved, you’ll be able to practice esthetics in Illinois.
Pursue Your Dream of Being an Esthetician at Tricoci University
If you’re an aspiring esthetician, the most important thing you can do is find a trusted, accredited institution to get your license. At Tricoci University, our robust esthetician program will teach you the latest industry trends, standards, and regulations. Here is a detailed list of licensing requirements at each of our state’s campuses, but we always recommend checking directly with your chosen state for updated requirements, as they may change:
- Esthetician License Requirements Indiana
- Esthetician License Requirements Illinois
- Aesthetician License Requirements Wisconsin
Contact us now to learn more about our esthetics program.