Makeup artistry in Wisconsin goes beyond working in a top salon or spa. If you’re passionate about becoming a makeup artist, Wisconsin beauty schools can get you involved in event planning including weddings, and formal galas, live theatre, even television and film production. It all starts with getting the right license, and the right education!

Wisconsin skyline
Wisconsin skyline

Makeup Education Requirements in WI

Wisconsin requires some kind of cosmetology license to work as a makeup artist which is similar to other states like Texas. You can choose between either an esthetician license, or a full cosmetology license. If you are working to be an esthetician, you will specialize in skin care, by completing a course that consists of at least 450 hours over no more than 30 weeks.

For a cosmetologist license, you must complete at least 1,550 hours of training lasting at least 10 months.

You may also complete an apprenticeship of at least 4,000 hours. You must be at least 18 years old to get your license, and you should check out Wisconsin’s beauty schools to find programs with plenty of makeup courses. You’ll want to learn foundation chemistry, color theory, day/night makeup application special occasion makeup techniques, and special effect or stage makeup.

Get Your Wisconsin Makeup License

After you’ve completed your program, you will need to apply online to sit your exams. Your exams include a written and practical test. The written exam includes a portion on Wisconsin State Laws and Regulations. Your practical exam can be performed on a mannequin, and you’ll need to show up 30 minutes early for each examination. You’ll need to bring two forms of ID that have a signature, and bring your own kit to the practical exam. You must score at least a 75% on both exams to pass.

Out-Of-State License?

To transfer your current license to work in Wisconsin, you must prove to the board that you have 4000 hours of licensed experience as both a cosmetologist, and esthetician. Check with the State Board to see your specific home state requirements. For education and the status of your current active license.

Renew Your License

You will need to renew your license, whichever you choose, every two years, in March. You will need to pay the renewal fee when you apply. The renewal fee comes with an additional $25 fee if you are later than March 31st of every odd-numbered year.

Work As A Beauty Professional In WA

The beauty industry is growing across the country, and Wisconsin is no exception. Some of the more famous salons and spa in the country can be found in Wisconsin, including the famous Sundara spa.

Wisconsin also includes many health destinations. And as a college town, there are plenty of transient clients looking for a quick pick me up, or a brave new look. Find your dream job with one of Wisconsin’s top job bank sites, and start your new career off on the right foot.

The following schools offer cosmetology courses and may teach makeup artistry as well at their campuses:

Empire Beauty School – Green Bay

Empire Beauty School – Two Rivers

Empire Beauty School – Milwaukee

Gill-Tech Academy of Hair Design – Appleton

Regency Beauty Institute – Milwaukee

Regency Beauty Institute – Madison

The Academy Waukesha – Paul Mitchell Partner School – Waukesha

The Institute of Beauty and Wellness Aveda – Milwaukee

The Salon Professional Academy – Kenosha

Other Wisconsin schools for nail technicians, estheticians, barbers and cosmetologists

The Institute of Beauty and Wellness – Milwaukee, WI

Did we miss any Wisconsin makeup training schools? Please contact us to let us know.