If you’ve already decided on beauty you know that cosmetology is a fun and rewarding career path, that can lead to many opportunities.

If you’re interested in a career change Maine’s beauty industry is on the rise. Though obviously not as huge as NY‘s scene, Maine has had salons featured in Elle Magazine, and has growing links to the film industry.

The right schools are the best way to start with your license requirements. Create something beautiful today, and check out the great opportunities a career in cosmetology can offer you!

Downtown Portland, ME
Downtown Portland, ME by Jeffrey B. Ferland [CC BY-SA 2.5]

Schooling Requirements For Maine Beauty Students

To begin your education into cosmetology, you will need to prove that you are at least 17 years of age, and have completed up to a 10th grade education. In some case you can start your program in high school.

Then you must find the right beauty school for you. You’ll study a variety of subjects, from basic skin care, to hair cutting and colouring, and makeup applications and techniques.

You’ll also need to familiarize yourself with the laws and rules of Maine’s board of cosmetology and Barbers. To qualify for license, your course needs to be at least 1500 hours long, and take at least 9 months of study. Use our app to find a school close to you:

If you can’t attend a cosmetology program, you may decide to take the less traditional route of applying for an apprenticeship. The state board says that an apprenticeship program will take at least 2500 hours of practical study, at a licensed salon, under the supervision of a licensed cosmetologist.

Get Your Maine Cosmetology License

Once you’ve completed your study hours, you are eligible to take your exams.

Maine licenses via the NIC Interstate exam. It’s a two part exam, with a 90-minute written exam and a three-hour practical to test both the theory of everything you’ve learned, and make sure you’re able to perform basic tasks, including those relating to sanitation and safety, as you grow your career. You will need to pass with a 75% on both exams before you can be licensed.

You also need to apply for your license within one year of passing the exam, to ensure that your skills and knowledge are current.

Out-Of-State License Applicants

If you are working through an apprenticeship, you will need to apply for a trainee license. You must be at least 16 years old, and have completed a 10th grade education. You should be aware that you only have 18 months after you’ve acquired trainee status to complete your apprenticeship hours.

If, however, you already have a license in another state, you can apply for a license by endorsement. It is a separate application, and you will need to pay the fee. You’ll also need to submit your original state licensure verification, and proof of your age, education, and work experience. You may be required to submit proof of hours worked, if your education is less than Maine’s 1500 hours of study.

Renewing Your Maine Cosmetology License

Your license expires each year on October 31st. You will need to renew by paying the renewal fee. No continuing education is required, but as your client base continues to grow, you might find it beneficial to continue your education with part-time courses to learn new skills, technology and techniques, which will put you in high demand.

Job Opportunities For Beauticians in ME

Maine’s beauty industry has a lot to offer. Depending on where you specialize, you could be working in a medical office, massage parlour, salon or spa.

Maine has a great tourist industry, and work in a hotel might be the perfect way to start on your own client list, if you are looking to eventually freelance or build your own salon.

Check out mainecareercenter.gov to get started on your great new career.

Some Cosmetology Schools in Maine

Name Address Tuition Other Programs
Spa Tech Institute100 Larrabee Road, Westbrook, 04092UnknownHolistic and Therapeutic Massage, Polarity Therapy, Aesthetics, RYSE, Manicuring/Nail Technology
Aveda Institute - Maine43 Bridge Street, Augusta, 04330$15,900Esthetician, Manicurist, Barber
Paul Mitchell The School Portsmouth140 Congress Street, Portsmouth, 03801$17,000None

Other Maine schools for nail technicians, estheticians, barbers.

Did we miss any cosmetology in Maine schools in this list? Please let us know.