North Dakota Cosmetology Laws, Rules, and Licensing
National theory is shared across states, but North Dakota adds its own licensing structure and legal rules that appear on the state portion of the exam. This chapter explains who regulates the profession in North Dakota, the credentials it issues, and the duties that keep a license in good standing.
The North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology
Cosmetology in North Dakota is regulated by the North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology, the authority that issues licenses, approves schools, inspects establishments, and enforces the state's rules and sanitation code. Knowing the correct regulator matters because only that agency can grant, renew, or discipline a license; private associations, national certification companies, and city business offices cannot. The agency's rules carry the force of law, so a practice that is customary elsewhere may still violate North Dakota requirements. When in doubt about a current rule, fee, or deadline, verify it directly with the board rather than relying on secondhand information.
License Categories and Scope of Practice
North Dakota recognizes credentials by discipline, commonly including Cosmetologist, Esthetician, Nail Technician, and Instructor. North Dakota issues separate licenses by discipline, and each license authorizes only the services within its defined scope. Each credential authorizes only the services within its defined scope, so working beyond your scope is a violation even if you feel qualified. Medical procedures such as injecting fillers, diagnosing skin disease, or other acts reserved to licensed health professionals fall outside every cosmetology credential. Understanding exactly what your license permits protects both clients and your standing with the board.
Licensing Establishments and Staying Current
In North Dakota the salon or establishment must hold its own salon license in addition to the personal licenses of the people working in it, and a general municipal business license does not substitute for it. Individuals must hold a current license before providing services for compensation; finishing school or filing an application does not authorize paid work. Licenses must be renewed before they expire, and practicing on a lapsed license is prohibited. Because renewal cycles, continuing-education expectations, and fees can change, confirm the current requirements with the board each cycle.
State-specific details
State exam facts
- State regulator
- North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology
- Exam vendor
- NIC (state-administered)
- Prelicensing education
- 1,500 hours (reduced from 1,800 effective August 1, 2021; 2,500-hour apprenticeship)
- Passing score
- 75
How many training hours does North Dakota require for a cosmetology license?
North Dakota requires 1,500 hours — reduced from 1,800 effective August 1, 2021 — or a 2,500-hour apprenticeship.
Who licenses cosmetologists in North Dakota?
The North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology licenses cosmetologists and administers the NIC Written (Theory) exam, the NIC Practical exam, and a state Law & Rules exam.
Does North Dakota still require a practical exam?
Yes. North Dakota requires the NIC practical exam in addition to the written theory and state law exams, and a score of 75% is required to pass.
Sources: http://www.ndcosmetology.com/resources/, https://www.nictesting.org
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