Wyoming Cosmetology Law & Licensing
Wyoming regulates cosmetology through an independent state board. This chapter covers the regulator, credentials, and compliance.
The Wyoming State Board of Cosmetology
Wyoming regulates cosmetology through the Wyoming State Board of Cosmetology, an independent board based in Cheyenne. The board issues licenses, adopts rules, inspects salons, and enforces standards. Its authority is statewide, so requirements are uniform across the state.
Credentials and scope
Wyoming issues distinct credentials, including cosmetologist, hair stylist, nail technician, and esthetician, plus instructor and salon licenses. Each authorizes a defined scope, so a practitioner must hold the credential that matches the work performed. Out-of-scope or unlicensed practice is prohibited.
Salons, renewals, and enforcement
The salon must be licensed and meet the board's sanitation standards, in addition to the individuals inside, and salons are subject to inspection. Licenses are issued for a set term and must be renewed before expiring. Unlicensed practice, out-of-scope work, and sanitation violations can be disciplined. Exact hours, fees, and cycles are set by the board and should be confirmed there.
State-specific details
State exam facts
- State regulator
- Wyoming Board of Cosmetology
- Exam vendor
- Prov (NIC exams)
- Prelicensing education
- 2,000 hours (among the highest in the country)
How many training hours does Wyoming require for a cosmetology license?
Wyoming requires 2,000 hours — one of the highest cosmetology training requirements in the country. Verify the exact figure against the Board's rules (Title 33, Ch. 12) before enrolling.
Who licenses cosmetologists in Wyoming?
The Wyoming Board of Cosmetology licenses cosmetologists and delivers the NIC theory and practical exams through Prov.
Does Wyoming still require a practical exam?
Yes. Wyoming requires both the NIC theory exam and a hands-on NIC practical exam.
Sources: https://cosmetology.wyo.gov/student-information, https://cosmetology.wyo.gov/rules-regulations

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