How do I Renew My License?
Renew Online: To renew online, you will need your license Record ID and Authorization Code, which can be found on your renewal form. Renewal forms are mailed to your address of record approximately 60 days prior to your license expiration date.
You can also obtain your Record ID and Authorization codes here.
Step-by-step directions for renewing online and setting up your account can be found here.
Renew By Mail: You may also renew by mail by signing your renewal form, and mailing it with payment using the return envelope that was originally sent with your renewal form.
If you have not received your renewal form, you can contact the Board at 617-701-8792 or cosmetologyandbarberingboard@mass.gov
I Haven’t Received My License in the Mail. What Should I Do?
If it has been more than 6 weeks since your renewal payment was processed, please contact the Board at 617-701-8792 or cosmetologyandbarberingboard@mass.gov to request a duplicate license.
You can also use our Check a License feature to make sure that your license is current.
How Do I Change My Address or Name?
If you have already set up your ePLACE account and linked your license to your account, you can log into your account, click on Manage Licenses, and click the “Amendment” option to the right of your license number. You can complete an amendment to change your address or name, or to order a duplicate license.
If you have not set up your online account and linked your license yet, please contact the Board at cosmetologyandbarberingboard@mass.gov
How Do I Request a Copy of My License?
If you have already set up your ePLACE account and linked your license to your account, you can log into your account, click on Manage Licenses, and click the “Amendment” option to the right of your license number. You can complete an amendment to order a duplicate license.
If you have not set up your online account and linked your license yet, please contact the Board at cosmetologyandbarberingboard@mass.gov
My License is Expired. How Do I Renew?
Based on how long your license has been expired for, there are several different processes. If you’re not sure how long your license has been expired, you can use our Check a License page to check your expiration status.
- License has been expired for less than 2 years: you can use your renewal form to renew by mail or set up your online account to renew online. You will have to pay a late fee of $57 in addition to your renewal fee.
- License has been expired for more than 2 years, but less than 3 years: you must reinstate your license. Reinstatements can only be done by mail. Please contact the Board at 617-701-8792 or cosmetologyandbarberingboard@mass.gov to request a reinstatement form.
- License expired for 3 years or more: You must complete a Lapsed Application and re-take the Practical Exam. The Lapsed Application is available on the Board’s Applications & Forms page here.
How Do I Open a Salon or Barbershop?
To open a salon or barbershop, you must submit a complete salon or barbershop application to the Board. Find application instructions for a salon here and for a barbershop here.
Please make sure that you include all required items on the application checklist, and make sure that all forms are properly signed and notarized where needed. Incomplete applications and unsigned forms may delay the licensing process. Once your application has been processed, an Inspector will contact you to schedule an inspection of your shop. You may not operate your shop until it is approved by an Inspector.
How Do I Transfer My Cosmetology / Barbering License to Massachusetts?
If you received your training/education in another state, you must complete an Out of State application. If you have a current license in another state with substantially equal training requirements to Massachusetts, you can be licensed without taking any exams.
You can apply online here by completing an Out of State Cosmetology or Out of State Barbering application. Further application guidance can be found here.
I’m Moving to Another State. How Do I Get My License Transferred There?
Please contact the other state’s licensing Board to find out about their application process. Other states often require an official verification of your Massachusetts license to be sent to their licensing Board as part of their application process.
How Do I Request a Verification/Certification of My Massachusetts License?
Request a Verification online: You can request a verification on our ePLACE portal here. You will have to create an account, but you do not have to link your license to your account.
Once you’re logged in, go to File an Application, scroll down to the Board of Cosmetology & Barbering, and select Request for a verification/certification.
Further guidance on submitting a verification request can be found here.
How Do I File a Complaint Against a Licensee or Business?
All complaints should be submitted in writing. You can either file a complaint online or by downloading our agency’s complaint form and mailing it in. Directions on filing a complaint can be found here.
How Do I Become a Cosmetologist, Barber, Aesthetician, Manicurist, or Electrologist?
See this page for more information