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Consumers rely on cosmetologists to cut and color their hair, give them facials, do their nails, and generally help them look and feel their best. This profession requires knowledge of health and safety protocols, as well as legal sanitation requirements. 

Because it is a regulated industry, the state of Iowa requires cosmetologists to obtain a license from the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences and renew it periodically.  

Initially, you must complete 1,550 education hours, graduate from a board-approved cosmetology school, and pass the National Interstate Council (NIC) board exam to obtain your cosmetology or barber license. 

What are the requirements to renew your license, and how often do you have to go through the renewal process? What happens if you fail to renew your license? Here’s what you need to know. 

Requirements for License Renewal

In Iowa, cosmetology professionals must renew licenses every two years, starting with the second renewal period after you receive your license. A renewal period starts on April 1 and ends on March 31, two years later. 

For your second renewal period and each one thereafter, you must complete six hours of state-approved continuing education (CE) and submit proof to the board before your license expires. 

There are two different courses you must take. The first, Iowa Cosmetology CE, is a 4-hour course covering information specific to your discipline. For a hairdresser, for example, this could include the following topics: 

• Hair cutting and coloring 
• Human trafficking prevention 
• Diseases of the scalp 

The second course, Iowa Cosmetology Laws & Rules CE, is two hours long and features content intended to increase knowledge and understanding of current and changing laws and rules related to cosmetology. 

Renewing Multiple Licenses

If you hold more than one active license, additional CE participation is required for each additional license, but you don’t have to complete six hours for each license. You will only have to add the 4-hour course related to additional disciplines, so 10 hours total for two active licenses or 14 hours total for three. 

What Happens if My License Expires?

If you accidentally miss the deadline or fail to complete and submit proof of required CE, your license will expire, and you won’t be legally allowed to practice. There is a 60-day grace period during which you may submit proof of completed CE and pay a late fee for license renewal, but you still may not practice while your license is expired. 

After 60 days, your license will become inactive, and you’ll have to complete a reinstatement process, which will incur additional fees. Practicing without a valid license could result in fines, license suspension or revocation, and legal action from the state and perhaps even clients. 

Finding State-Approved Continuing Education

CE to renew your cosmetology license can easily be completed online with a state-approved program. You’ll want one that offers working professionals the convenience of self-paced learning with 24/7 access to course materials. 

Is it time to renew your cosmetology license in Iowa? Contact RocketCert now to sign up for the courses you need to maintain an active license.