Wisconsin Cosmetology and Aesthetician License Requirements
Everything you need to get licensed in Wisconsin, plus where to train. Tricoci University's Janesville campus prepares you for both the cosmetology and aesthetics credentials.
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In Wisconsin, beauty professionals are licensed by the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) through the Cosmetology Examining Board. To work as a cosmetologist you must complete 1,550 hours of approved training and pass the state exam. To work as an aesthetician you must complete 450 hours and pass the state exam. Tricoci University’s Janesville campus offers accredited programs for both, so you can complete your hours and prepare for licensure in one place.
| Program | WI hours req. | Tricoci hours | State exam | At Janesville |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology | 1,550 | 1,550 | NIC written + practical | Yes |
| Esthetics (Aesthetics) | 450 | 600 | NIC written + practical | Yes |
Program Licensing Information
Wisconsin cosmetology license requirements
- Be at least 18 and hold a high school diploma or GED (or meet federal ability-to-benefit criteria).
- Complete 1,550 hours of approved cosmetology training, or an apprenticeship path.
- Pass the NIC written and practical exams, administered in Wisconsin by DL Roope Administrations.
- Apply to DSPS and pay the credential fee.
Training at Tricoci University Janesville
Tricoci University’s cosmetology program is 1,550 hours and can be completed full-time in about 11 months. Training includes clinic-floor hours in an on-site student salon, so you build real client experience while you complete the state hour requirement.
Scope and career
A Wisconsin cosmetology license is the broadest beauty credential in the state. It covers hair, skin, and nail services, so cosmetologists can work as stylists, colorists, or skincare providers. Employment and earning potential are strongest in the Milwaukee and Madison metros.
Wisconsin aesthetician license requirements
- Be at least 18 and hold a high school diploma or GED (or meet federal ability-to-benefit criteria).
- Complete 450 hours of approved aesthetics training.
- Pass the NIC written and practical exams, administered by DL Roope Administrations.
- Apply to DSPS and pay the credential fee.
Training at Tricoci University Janesville
Tricoci University’s aesthetics program is 600 hours, above the 450-hour state minimum, and full-time students can graduate in as few as 4 months. The additional hours mean more hands-on practice in facials, waxing, and skin analysis than the state requires.
Scope and career
A Wisconsin aesthetician license covers skincare services: facials, exfoliation, waxing, and related treatments. Aestheticians work in spas, medical spas, and skincare clinics. Note that a Wisconsin cosmetology license also includes aesthetics within its scope, which is useful comparison context for undecided students.
How to Get Licensed
1
Enroll at an approved school and complete your required hours (1,550 cosmetology, 450 aesthetics).
2
Register for and pass the NIC written and practical exams through DL Roope Administrations.
3
Submit your license application to the Wisconsin DSPS Cosmetology Examining Board.
4
Pay the credential fee. Qualifying lower-income applicants may receive a 10% initial-fee reduction.
5
Receive your license through the Wisconsin LicensE portal and begin working in a licensed establishment.
Cost & Financial Aid
Cover tuition transparency, federal aid eligibility (Tricoci University is NACCAS-accredited, so students can access Department of Education aid), scholarships, and the interest-free payment plan. State the approximate exam and credential fees (around $315 total, paid to DL Roope including the DSPS credential fee) and the 10% initial-fee reduction for applicants at or below 180% of the federal poverty guideline.
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