Frequently Asked Questions and eLIPSE Support for Cosmetology and Barbering

Frequently asked questions and eLIPSE support for: technology, applications, licensing and regulations, and inspections.

I have never logged into the eLIPSE licensing platform before. What do I need to do?

When you create your MyMassGov account to access eLIPSE the first time, eLIPSE will ask you to enter information to help it locate your license and link it to your MyMassGov account. 

Please read the Linking Your License guide before creating your account to ensure it is linked correctly.

I’m trying to create a MyMassGov account. I’m at the two-step authentication but the phone number does not match so I am unable to receive the text.

The licensing office is unable to assist with technology issues. 

• Here is the link if you need to Change or remove the phone number in your MyMassGov account.
• If you’ve lost access to the phone number and don't have Multi-factor-authentication (the App), please Reset multifactor authentication (MFA) for MyMassGov.
• Here's their general help center: MyMassGov Help Center.

I’m having trouble linking my license. Where can I find assistance?

The licensing office is unable to assist with technology issues. 

Please review this Linking Your License guide and carefully follow the step-by-step instructions on how to create a MyMassGov account. If you already have a license, you need to know how your first and last name appear in eLIPSE. The guidewill show you how to confirm this.

To resolve a license linking issue, please log in to your eLIPSE account and try linking your license again by following the instructions in our guide Linking Your License guide

If you are still unable to link your license after following the guide, please follow the prompts to create a support case:

1. Answer the question “Would you like to submit a case to DOL”? Using the drop-down, select “Yes”.
2. In the box labeled “Please include any additional information for review, like license number.” … be sure to enter your complete license number if you have it, otherwise include the name of the Board that issued your license.

This will ensure our support team receives the information needed to investigate your issue.

I am interested in applying for licensure. How do I know if I’m qualified?

Applicants are required to review all applicable regulations prior to submitting an application. 

When you are ready to apply, all licensing guides are available on the DOL eLIPSE How-to-Guides page. 

I have submitted my application. How long will it take for my license to be issued?

Application processing time is approximately 2-3 weeks once all required documents have been received. You can check the status of your application at any time in the eLIPSE platform. Please visit the DOL eLIPSE How-to-Guides for assistance.

Are background checks required?

 Yes. As part of the Department's licensing modernization initiative, all new and renewal applications are being standardized across all license types, including the requirement to submit a notarized CORI Authorization Form. This requirement is now being applied consistently across all license types.

This form is embedded within the online application. You can also download the 2-page CORI Authorization Form.

When does my license expire?

All licensing information is available in the eLIPSE platform. Please follow the steps in the Linking your license guide.

How do I request a duplicate license?

Licenses can be printed directly from the eLIPSE platform. Please visit the DOL eLIPSE How-to-Guides page for more information.

My license expired. Can it be reinstated?

Yes, you may reinstate your license as long as it has not been suspended or revoked. All outstanding violations, fines, and discipline must be resolved prior to submitting a reinstatement application in eLIPSE. See below for reinstatement criteria.

• Expiration date- 2 years: renewal fee + late fee
• 2-3 years expired: 2 renewal fees + late fee
• Expired over 3 years: 2 renewal fees + late fee, re-examination. Retesting is a legal requirement of reinstatement under M.G.L. c. 112, § 87GGand cannot be waived.

For more information, visit the Reinstate a lapsed barber, cosmetology, or electrology license page.

I have questions about what services are outside the scope of practice.

Please review the Board’s Policy on Practices Outside the Scope of Licensure.  Unfortunately, we are unable to provide further clarification beyond the written requirements. For additional analysis of what is needed outside of stated laws and policies related to your circumstances, you must seek legal advice from your attorney.

My salon or shop application has been submitted. When will the space be inspected?

Salon and shop application processing time is approximately 4 weeks. Once all required documents have been reviewed and approved by this office, and the applicant has confirmed that ALL shop and salon opening criteria have been met, we will notify Office of Inspections. OI will contact the applicant to schedule the opening inspection directly. Inspections are scheduled in the order in which the applications enter the queue. Licensing staff are unable to provide scheduling information.

I have questions about equipment, materials, and general salon or shop regulations.

All regulations and policies can be found on the Board’s website. The Board and its Office of Inspections are not permitted to interpret or expand upon policies, which is consistent with standard state agency practice. These statutes, regulations, and policies are applied in the field based on their plain language and reasonable reading, and determinations are made on a case-by-case basis. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide further clarification beyond the written requirements. For additional analysis of what is needed outside of stated laws and policies related to your circumstances, you must seek legal advice from your attorney.