Maryland Cosmetology Laws, Rules & Licensing
The state portion of the Maryland cosmetology exam begins with how the profession is regulated in Maryland and how a person becomes and stays licensed. This chapter covers the Maryland State Board of Cosmetologists and its authority, the license types the state issues, scope of practice, and the renewal, display, and prohibited-practice rules that keep a license in good standing. These state rules sit on top of the shared national theory and are the most heavily weighted part of the supplement.
The Maryland State Board of Cosmetologists and Its Authority
Cosmetology in Maryland is regulated by the Maryland State Board of Cosmetologists. This authority adopts rules, issues and renews licenses, inspects establishments, investigates complaints, and can fine, suspend, or revoke a license. A common exam point is knowing that this state body — not a federal agency, county office, or private trade association — controls who may practice cosmetology in the state.
License Types and Scope of Practice
The state issues a full cosmetologist license and commonly separate credentials for narrower scopes such as esthetics (skin care), nail technology (manicuring), and instructor. A full cosmetology license generally authorizes hair, skin, and nail services, while a specialty license limits the holder to that specialty. Working outside the scope of your license, or without any license, is prohibited. Because required training hours and fees are set by rule and can change, confirm current figures with the board rather than relying on memory.
Renewal, Display, and Establishment Licensing
A license is personal to the holder, must be kept current through periodic renewal, and should be displayed or available at the place of work as the rules require. It cannot be shared, transferred, or used by anyone else. In addition to individual licenses, the salon or establishment itself generally must be licensed or registered so the board can inspect the premises. Letting a license lapse, or practicing on an expired license, can lead to penalties and reinstatement requirements.
State-specific details
State exam facts
- State regulator
- Maryland State Board of Cosmetologists (Department of Labor)
- Exam vendor
- PSI
- Prelicensing education
- 1,500 hours (theory-only exam eligible at 1,380 hours; the practical requires 1,500)
- Scored questions
- 110
- Time limit
- 120 minutes
How many training hours does Maryland require for a cosmetology license?
Maryland requires 1,500 hours. Students may take the written theory exam at 1,380 hours, but the practical exam requires the full 1,500.
Who licenses cosmetologists in Maryland?
The State Board of Cosmetologists, within the Maryland Department of Labor's Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing, licenses cosmetologists. Exams are delivered by PSI.
Does Maryland still require a practical exam?
Yes. Maryland requires both a written theory exam (110 questions, 120-minute limit) and a hands-on practical exam covering 11 topic areas; both must be passed within a two-year window.
Sources: https://www.labor.maryland.gov/license/cos/cosexam.shtml, https://proctor2.psionline.com/media/programs/Instructions/MD-CIB-COS-NEW.pdf
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