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If you love to share your knowledge and experience as a cosmetology professional, you may have taken the next step in your career by becoming a cosmetology instructor. In this role, you may help students develop knowledge and skills in hair cutting, coloring, and styling, as well as skin care, makeup application, and nail care. 

Although you must possess a current cosmetologist, esthetician, or manicurist license to become an instructor, you are required to obtain a separate cosmetology instructor license from the North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology before you can start teaching.  

Additionally, this license must be renewed periodically. What are the renewal requirements? 

Requirements for Renewing Your Cosmetology Instructor License 

North Dakota cosmetology instructor licenses are valid for one year, expiring on December 31 annually. To be eligible to renew your license, you must complete eight hours of board-approved continuing education (CE). 

There are several potential pathways to earning CE hours, including formal lectures and hands-on training. However, online courses are the most convenient way for working professionals to complete CE requirements.  

Only programs that have been reviewed and received approval from the board are allowed to advertise as such. When you choose a program, look for courses that cover topics like: 

• Hair cutting and coloring 
• Sanitation and sterilization 
• Diseases and disorders of the scalp 
• Chemical makeup of hair, skin, and nails 
• Domestic violence awareness 

On a side note, cosmetology instructors are required to apply in writing for board approval before attending any seminar for CE credit, although some courses are preapproved by the board.  

You may renew your license online, by mail, or in person. License processing may take three to four weeks, so submit your renewal application with a valid CE certificate of completion and applicable fees well in advance of expiration. 

What Happens if You Miss Your Deadline? 

If your renewal application is paid or postmarked after December 31, or if you fail to submit a completed application, your license will expire.  

You are not legally permitted to operate as a cosmetology instructor without a valid license. Doing so could result in high fees and a license suspension. However, you have a grace period of up to one year to complete your renewal. You just have to send your completed application along with a late fee. 

If your license has expired for more than a year, you have up to five years to seek reinstatement. Reinstatement requires paying a late fee and proving that you have passed the law, rules, and regulations examination for North Dakota cosmetologists.  

Licenses that have been lapsed for more than five years cannot be reinstated. You will have to apply for a new license, meeting all experience and testing requirements. 

Approved CE for Working Professionals 

Attending lectures and training sessions is challenging for busy, working professionals. Online programs that offer 24/7 access to course materials at your convenience are ideal for self-paced learning. 

Is it time to renew your North Dakota cosmetology instructor license? Contact RocketCert now to find approved CE courses.