state board rules & regulations

When do all operator licenses expire?

All operator licenses expire on September 30th of every EVEN numbered year.

When do all salon and school licenses expire?

All salon and school licenses expire on July 31st of every ODD numbered year.

What does EPL stand for?

EPL stands for Experienced Practicing Licensee.

What is an EPL?

An EPL is a person who holds a license for at least 3 years.

Who must manage every salon?

Every salon must be managed by an EPL.

Do you need a license to own a salon?

No, you do not need a license to own a salon.

What types of salons can a Cosmetology and Hairstyling EPL manage?

A Cosmetology and Hairstyling EPL may manage all kinds of salons.

What division is the State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling a part of?

It is part of the Division of Consumer Affairs.

How often are school, salon, and operator licenses renewed?

They are renewed biennially.

What does 'biennially' mean?

Biennially means every two years.

What must you do if you have a license from another state and wish to work in NJ?

You must achieve a NJ license.

What services can barbers NOT offer?

Barbers cannot offer waxing, tweezing, manicuring, or makeup services.

What services can a cosmetologist provide?

A cosmetologist may offer all services, including shaving and beard trimming.

How many members are there on the State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling?

There can be a range of 7-11 members.

Do sales representatives need a Cosmetology license?

No, sales representatives and various Beauty Product Demonstrators do not need a Cosmetology license.

What can senior students do in salons?

Senior students can legally work in salons and perform all services if they have completed all hours of training and obtained a doctor’s physical and a student permit.

What is required to apply for a temporary permit after graduation?

Proof of passing the written exam and applying for a temporary permit.

What is the validity of a temporary permit?

A temporary permit is valid for no more than 120 days pending test results.

Are temporary permits renewable?

No, temporary permits are not renewable.

What must you bring to the State Board for your exam?

You must bring a photo ID.

How many attempts does the written exam fee cover?

The written exam fee is valid for one attempt.

How many attempts does the practical exam fee cover?

The practical exam fee is valid for two attempts.

What must shop licenses be renewed within?

Shop licenses must be renewed within 90 days of expiration.

What is required if the salon EPL is going on leave?

A 30-day advanced notice to the State Board is required.

What is the minimum age to apply for a Cosmetology license?

The minimum age is 17 years old.

What is the minimum age to become a teacher?

The minimum age is 18 years old.

What are the hour requirements to take the licensing exam?

You must complete 1200 hours in cosmetology, 300 in manicuring, 600 in skin care, or 900 in barbering.

What classifications of students does the State Board recognize?

The State Board recognizes Juniors and Seniors.

Who issues Student Registration Cards?

They are issued from the State Board of Cosmetology.

What documents are required to apply for the licensing exam?

A money order for the fee, required hours, two photos, high school diploma or equivalent, physician’s exam, passing grade for the theory exam.

What are the two parts to the exam process?

The written exam and the practical exam.

What is the passing grade for the written exam?

You must have a passing grade of 75% or higher to be able to take the practical

How do you get your license?

By passing both the practical and the written exam

Is the senior permit valid after graduation?

No, it is only valid until the day you graduate.

What must a barber do to obtain a cross-over license?

A barber must take the Cosmetology and Hairstyling Exam.

What happens if a barber fails the cross-over exam?

They must return to school and complete 500 hours of training before retaking the exam.

How can lost or destroyed licenses be replaced?

By appearing in person at the Board Office with 2 forms of identification, the required fee, and a notarized affidavit.

Who can make salon or school inspections?

State Board Inspectors can make inspections at any time.

What is the minimum square footage for a salon?

The minimum is 350 square feet for the first 2 working stations and 50 additional square feet for each additional station

What is required to obtain a teacher's license?

You must have a cosmetology and hairstyling license, complete 30 clock hours of a Methods of Teaching Course, 500 hrs in teaching training course, a physician’s exam, and proof of 6 months salon experience, be at least 18, successfully pass both written and practical

Is an operator's license valid without a signature and photo?

No, it is not valid until it is signed and a picture is attached.

What is the minimum educational requirement for a license?

The possession of a high school diploma or equivalent.

What are ancillary services permitted in hairstyling shops?

Tanning, electrolysis, and ear piercings are permitted if performed by trained individuals.

What cleaning practices are required for tools and utensils?

They must be cleaned, rinsed, disinfected, and stored properly after each use.

What practices are prohibited in licensed shops?

Smoking by an operator or client, booth rental, body piercing, application of permanent makeup or tattooing, the use of products containing methyl methacrylate monomer, the use of credo blade, akin scraper, lancet or any other comparable instrument, threading, eyebrow/ eyelash tinting, eyelash perming, Brazilian waxing

What are the penalties for violations of regulations?

A civil penalty of not more than 10k for the first offense and not more than 20k for the second offense.

What must chemical disinfectants be effective against?

They must be effective against HIV and HPV.