Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences - Home

The Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences establishes rules and regulations to ensure the integrity and competence of licensed Cosmetologists and investigates complaints for unprofessional conduct.

The Board is the link between the consumer and the licensed Cosmetologists and, as such, promotes the public health, welfare and safety.

Licensees are responsible for meeting all licensure requirements and should review the rules carefully and frequently. Select Laws and Rule listed on the left and scroll through the Rules for detailed information about Licensure Definitions, Licensure Renewal, Reactivation and other important content specific to this profession.

Continuing Education Opportunities

The Iowa Board of Cosmetology cannot endorse a specific course and does not approve continuing education.  Iowa's associations and licensed schools of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences and Barbering are a good starting point when searching for continuing education hours. The Board rules currently allow unlimited online continuing education hours. Please be sure your continuing education provider will issue you a certificate that meets the requirements as outlined in IAC 645 Chapter 64.

Iowa's Licensed Cosmetology School

Iowa's Licensed Barbering Schools

Iowa Exam Information

Iowa exclusively uses the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) examinations. Prov, Inc. administers the NIC exam.

At the discretion of your school, you may schedule your appointment without prior approval from the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences.

The fee outlined in the Prov Candidate Bulletin is for each examination, whether you are testing for the first time or retaking the examination. Exam fees are non-refundable, non-transferrable and paid directly to Prov, Inc. Do NOT send exam fees to the Board.