Education · 1 of 4

The path

Short school, then years of getting fast and getting known.

1. 1

   High school diploma

   Grade 12

   Almost every state requires a diploma or an equivalency certificate to sit the licensing exam. A few states let you start the program before you finish.

2. 2

   Cosmetology school

   9 to 15 months

   A set number of training hours fixed by your state, done at a private beauty school or a community college. Full-time programs usually run about 9 to 15 months.

3. 3

   Pass the state board exam

   Weeks

   A written theory test and, in many states, a hands-on practical test on a mannequin. Sanitation and safety are a big chunk of it.

4. 4

   Get licensed and find a chair

   Weeks

   Apply to your state board with your hours and your exam results. Then find a salon that will take a new stylist.

5. 5

   Build a book

   3 to 5 years

   Assistant, then junior stylist, then your own column of regulars. Three to five years before the money is good.