Planning to become a lash technician? Learn about the licensing and training requirements for each U.S. state. This guide helps you understand what qualifications you need to apply lash extensions legally and build a professional beauty career.
The beauty and aesthetics industry has seen explosive growth in recent years, and lash services are leading the way. From eyelash extensions to lifts and tints, clients are increasingly seeking specialized treatments to enhance their look. This rising demand has also created more opportunities for beauty professionals, but if you’re considering a career as a lash technician, you might be asking: Do I need a license to work legally in the United States?
The short answer is: In most states, yes. But the exact rules vary depending on where you live. Some states require lash technicians to hold a full cosmetology or esthetics license, while others have introduced a specific lash technician license or registration. A few states only require completion of an approved training program.
This blog will break down what you need to know – explaining licensing requirements, why they matter, and how you can build a successful lash career while staying compliant.
At first glance, applying eyelash extensions may seem like a purely cosmetic service, but the truth is, it involves much more than artistry. Lash technicians work very close to the eye, using adhesives, tweezers, and other tools. Without proper training and safety measures, clients can be at risk for:
This is why most states regulate lash services under cosmetology or esthetics laws. Licensing requirements ensure that technicians are trained not only in application techniques but also in hygiene, anatomy, and product safety.
For clients, licensing offers peace of mind. They can trust their lash professional is skilled and certified. For technicians, it provides credibility, protects against legal issues, and opens up more job opportunities.
In the U.S., each state decides how to regulate beauty services. Typically, it’s the responsibility of the State Board of Cosmetology or the Department of Health. These boards set the standards for:
Because laws vary widely, what qualifies you to work in one state may not be enough in another. This is why it’s so important to check with your state board before enrolling in a lash program or applying for jobs.
The following table summarizes the licensing requirements for lash stylists across U.S. states, based on regulations compiled by the American Lash Association.
| State | License Requirements |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Licenses are NOT required |
| Alaska | Hairdresser and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Arizona | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Arkansas | Cosmetology, Esthetician, or Barber licenses are required |
| California | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Colorado | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Connecticut | Eyelash Technician licenses are required |
| Delaware | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| District of Columbia | A cosmetologist license is required |
| Florida | A cosmetologist license is required |
| Georgia | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Hawaii | Cosmetology, Esthetician, or Barber licenses are required |
| Idaho | Licenses may or may not be required. Please consult with Idaho’s State Board. |
| Illinois | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Indiana | Licenses are NOT required |
| Iowa | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Kansas | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Kentucky | Cosmetology and Esthetician licenses or Eyelash Extension Permits are required |
| Louisiana | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Maine | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Maryland | Licenses are NOT required |
| Massachusetts | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Michigan | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Minnesota | Cosmetology, Esthetician, or Eyelash Technician licenses are required |
| Mississippi | Licenses are NOT required |
| Missouri | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Montana | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Nebraska | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Nevada | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| New Hampshire | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| New Jersey | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| New Mexico | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| New York | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| North Carolina | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| North Dakota | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Ohio | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Oklahoma | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Oregon | Cosmetology, Esthetician, or Hairdresser licenses are required |
| Pennsylvania | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Rhode Island | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| South Carolina | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| South Dakota | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required, plus 16 hours of eyelash extension training. |
| Tennessee | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Texas | Cosmetology, Esthetician, or Eyelash Extension Specialist licenses are required |
| Utah | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Vermont | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Virginia | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Washington | Cosmetology and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| West Virginia | Cosmetologist and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
| Wisconsin | Licenses are NOT required |
| Wyoming | Cosmetologist and/or Esthetician licenses are required |
For recruitment agencies, employers, and job boards in the beauty industry, licensing plays a huge role. Salons, spas, and medspas want to hire lash technicians who are compliant with state laws. This means:
On the flip side, unlicensed technicians may find it difficult to secure jobs outside of freelance work. Even then, they risk fines if they’re caught working illegally.
If you’re serious about becoming a lash technician, here’s a step-by-step guide:
The demand for lash services continues to rise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in the personal care and beauty sector is projected to grow faster than average over the next decade. This includes skincare specialists and estheticians, many of whom now offer lash services as part of their practice.
More consumers are investing in lash extensions and maintenance, which means licensed technicians are in demand nationwide. For anyone entering the industry now, the timing is excellent.
As a licensed lash technician, finding the right job can make all the difference. That’s where a specialized recruitment agency or job board in the aesthetics industry comes in.
Platforms like Beauty Incubator Recruitment connect trained lash professionals with leading employers in the aesthetics, spa, and wellness sectors. By showcasing your license and certifications, you can stand out to employers looking for skilled professionals who meet state standards.
Employers benefit too, they can quickly find qualified, licensed lash technicians who are ready to work legally and safely.
Yes, in most states a license is required. Depending on your location, you may need a cosmetology, esthetics, or even a specific lash license. Always check your state board’s current regulations before starting training.
Working without a required license can lead to fines, penalties, or even being barred from practicing in the future. Many employers won’t hire unlicensed technicians, so it also limits career opportunities and professional credibility.
The required hours vary by state, ranging from as little as 50 hours to over 1,000 hours. This depends on whether your state requires a full cosmetology/esthetician license or a specialized lash certification.
Yes. In California, you must hold either a cosmetology or esthetician license to legally perform eyelash extensions. The California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology oversees licensing, ensuring technicians meet state-approved training and safety standards.
Yes. Florida requires lash technicians to have a cosmetology license. This ensures professionals are trained in sanitation, product use, and safe application techniques. Without a license, offering lash services in Florida is considered unlicensed practice and subject to penalties.
To become a lash technician, check your state’s requirements, enroll in a state-approved cosmetology, esthetics, or lash program, complete the required training hours, pass written and practical exams, and apply for licensing. Once licensed, you can start applying for jobs.
