Georgia State Board of Cosmetology 2026: License, Renewal, Exam & Fees
Use this Georgia cosmetology guide to verify a license, renew through GOALS, understand PSI exams, check fees, meet CE Broker requirements, apply by endorsement, reinstate a lapsed license, register apprentice hours, license a salon/shop and file a complaint with the Georgia Secretary of State Professional Licensing Boards Division.
Quick Answer: What Is the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology?
The official board name is the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. It is part of the Georgia Secretary of State Professional Licensing Boards Division and handles Georgia beauty and barber license applications, renewals, license search, PSI exam paths, endorsement, reinstatement, apprentice licenses, salon/shop licenses, school licensing, continuing education and complaints.
For clients and employers
Search for a licensee or facility before hiring, booking, renting a chair, signing a suite lease or accepting a job.
For license holders
Renew by the correct deadline for your license category, complete CE requirements and use CE Broker beginning in 2026.
For exam candidates
Understand the school/apprentice eligibility step, PSI scheduling, exam-day ID, score reports and the application after passing both exams.
Georgia Cosmetology Board Key Facts for 2026
This table gives the most useful official facts in one place so users do not have to jump across several Georgia SOS pages before understanding the process.
| Topic | Georgia user answer | Best official action |
|---|---|---|
| Official board | Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. | Use the Georgia Secretary of State Board page. |
| Main portal | GOALS is used for many licensing services including application, renewal, address change, license search, license print and verification ordering. | Register/login at GOALS before applying or renewing. |
| Paper applications | The Board page states paper applications are no longer accepted and paper applications received will be returned to sender. | Use GOALS unless the Board specifically instructs another route. |
| Board location | The Board page lists the new location as 3920 Arkwright Rd., Suite 195, Macon, GA 31210. | Do not rely on older forms showing an older address without checking current Board instructions. |
| Exam vendor | Georgia cosmetology examinations are handled through PSI; the exams are NIC-based. | Use PSI and current candidate bulletin instructions. |
| CE Broker | Beginning January 1, 2026, Georgia cosmetology and barber licensees must register and report CE coursework/proof in CE Broker. | Create at least a no-cost Basic account and upload CE before renewal. |
| Official contact | Use the Georgia SOS contact/email tools and GOALS support paths for board-specific issues. | Do not send payments or personal documents to private websites. |
Georgia Cosmetology License Path Helper
Select your goal and category. This helper does not collect personal data and does not replace GOALS or Board decisions. It simply points you to the correct official-style next step.
Select your goal and category. You will get the best official path, what to prepare and which record to save.
Georgia Cosmetology License Lookup: Verify Before You Trust a License
The Georgia cosmetology license search is useful for clients, employers, salon owners, booth renters, students, instructors and applicants. A screenshot, wall certificate, business card or social media claim is not enough when license status matters.
What to check in GOALS
- Person or facility name and license number if available.
- License type: Master Cosmetologist, Esthetician, Nail Technician, Hair Designer, Barber, Instructor, Salon/Shop or School.
- Current license status and expiration date.
- Whether the service being offered matches the license category.
- Whether the salon/shop or school has its own facility license.
Search mistakes to avoid
- Searching only by nickname instead of legal name.
- Assuming a personal license covers a business location.
- Confusing an application receipt with an active license.
- Ignoring expired, lapsed, pending or discipline-related status.
- Not saving a dated screenshot when employment or rental depends on proof.
Georgia Cosmetology License Types and Which Path to Choose
Many users search “Georgia cosmetology license” but need a specific path: first-time exam application, endorsement, reinstatement, apprentice license, instructor application, salon/shop license or school license.
| User situation | Likely Georgia path | Prepare before opening GOALS |
|---|---|---|
| You completed school and passed PSI exams | Initial license application | Passed written exam, passed practical exam, secure/verifiable document, affidavit of citizenship, immigration documents if applicable and any discipline explanation. |
| You are currently licensed in another state | Licensure by endorsement | Verification of original licensure, current licensure where applicable, education verification and possible GA exam proof if the Board requires it. |
| Your Georgia license lapsed or was revoked | Reinstatement | Reinstatement application, proof of required CE, secure/verifiable document and discipline records if applicable. |
| You want to teach | Instructor license | Valid Georgia master license, employment affidavit/1 year work experience, passed instructor exams and instructor training where required. |
| You want to train under a master | Four-year apprentice license | Apprentice application, shop license copy, master license copy, secure/verifiable document and proper supervisor/shop details. |
| You want to open a beauty or barber business | Salon/shop license | Business location, owner details, change of ownership/address/name if applicable and inspection/sanitation readiness. |
| You want to offer education | School license or CE provider path | School/provider application, facility/business details, fees and compliance documents. |
Georgia Cosmetology Board Fees: Exact Planning Table for 2026
The Board fee schedule states fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Use this table for planning, then verify the final amount inside GOALS or the latest official fee schedule before paying.
| License / action | Fee shown in Board fee schedule | Deadline / timing note |
|---|---|---|
| Master Cosmetologist application by exam | $30 | Apply after passing required exams and completing the checklist. |
| Master Cosmetologist renewal | $50 | Renew by March 31 of even years. |
| Master Cosmetologist late renewal | $100 | Within 30 days according to the fee schedule. |
| Master Cosmetologist reinstatement | $200 | Used when renewal/lapse requires reinstatement. |
| Esthetician or Nail Technician application by exam | $30 | Apply after passing exams. |
| Esthetician or Nail Technician renewal | $45 | Renew by August 31 of odd years. |
| Esthetician or Nail Technician late renewal | $90 | Within 30 days according to the fee schedule. |
| Hair Designer application by exam | $30 | Apply after passing exams. |
| Hair Designer renewal | $50 | Renew by September 30 of even years. |
| Master Barber or Barber II renewal | $50 | Renew by December 31 of even years. |
| Licensure by endorsement | $75 | Used for out-of-state transfer/endorsement path. |
| Instructor licensure by endorsement | $100 | Separate instructor endorsement fee. |
| Apprentice license | $90 | Applies to cosmetology, esthetician, nail tech, hair designer, master barber and Barber II apprentice license. |
| Salon/shop license | $75 | Separate from personal license. |
| Salon/shop renewal | $75 | Renew by June 30 of odd years. |
| Salon/shop late renewal | $200 | Within 6 months according to the fee schedule. |
| School license | $300 | Cosmetology/barber school renewal by June 30 of odd years; hair designer school renewal by September 30 of odd years. |
| Instructor license | $75 | Cosmetology, esthetician, nail technician and master barber instructor renewal by June 30 of odd years. |
| Verification of licensure | $35 | For official verification requests. |
| Duplicate license | $25 | Use GOALS/Board instruction for printing or duplicate requests. |
| Online processing fee | $5 | Fee schedule lists online processing separately. |
| Paper processing fee | $10 | Note that the current Board page says paper applications are no longer accepted. |
Georgia Cosmetology License Renewal: Deadlines, Late Fees and Reinstatement
Georgia renewal is category-specific. Missing the correct deadline can move you into late renewal or reinstatement, and practicing with a lapsed license can create discipline risk.
| License category | Renewal deadline shown by official guidance/fee schedule | Practical reminder |
|---|---|---|
| Master Cosmetologist | March 31 of even years | Complete CE requirements unless first renewal or valid waiver applies. |
| Esthetician | August 31 of odd years | Use GOALS and upload/report CE through CE Broker as required. |
| Nail Technician | August 31 of odd years | Do not wait until the final day if CE Broker proof is not uploaded. |
| Hair Designer | September 30 of even years | Track a different deadline than cosmetology and nail/esthetician. |
| Master Barber / Barber II | December 31 of even years | CE requirements apply to renewal cycles under Board guidance. |
| Instructor license | June 30 of odd years for most instructor categories; September 30 of odd years for Hair Design instructor | Instructors have higher CE requirements and no CE exemptions. |
| Salon/shop | June 30 of odd years | Business license renewal is separate from worker license renewal. |
| School license | June 30 of odd years for cosmetology/barber schools; September 30 of odd years for hair designer school | School fees and late fees are much higher than personal licenses. |
Renewal checklist before you click submit
- Confirm the correct license type and expiration date in GOALS.
- Create or update your CE Broker account for 2026 CE reporting.
- Upload or record CE before renewal to reduce audit risk.
- Use approved CE providers and keep certificates.
- Update address, email and name information before submitting.
- Pay the GOALS amount and save the receipt.
- Use license search/print after renewal posts to prove active status.
Georgia CE Broker 2026: Continuing Education Requirements Users Must Not Miss
As of January 1, 2026, Georgia cosmetology and barber licensees must register and report CE coursework and proof of completion in CE Broker. The Board strongly encourages users to load CE activity and certificates before renewal.
Most licensees
Georgia requires 5 continuing education hours every 2 years for renewal of Master Cosmetologist, Esthetician, Nail Technician, Hair Designer, Master Barber and Barber II licenses after the first renewal.
3 + 2 rule
Three hours must be health and safety. The remaining two hours may be in approved areas such as industry trends, computer skills, business management or the licensee’s area of practice.
Instructors
Instructors seeking renewal must complete 15 hours of Board-approved CE, with at least half of those hours in teaching techniques, lesson planning or advanced teacher training.
| CE question | Georgia answer | User action |
|---|---|---|
| Do first-time renewals need CE? | The first renewal is not required to meet CE requirements under Board FAQ guidance. | Still check GOALS and CE Broker before renewal. |
| Who may request a CE waiver? | A licensee who has held a license for 25 years or longer, or a licensee with hardship, may request a waiver. | Use the official waiver form and keep proof. |
| Can reinstatement CE be waived? | Board guidance states reinstatement applications are not eligible for CE waiver; required CE since lapse must be documented. | Gather every required certificate before reinstatement. |
| Can out-of-state Georgia licensees take online CE? | Internet/home study/electronic courses can be acceptable if registered with the Georgia Board and meeting required curriculum rules. | Verify provider/course registration in GOALS/CE Broker. |
| Does the Board provide CE classes? | The Board states it does not offer continuing education classes. | Use approved CE provider/course lists. |
Georgia Cosmetology PSI Exam: Eligibility, Scheduling, ID and Score Reports
Georgia cosmetology exams are administered by PSI and use NIC examinations. Candidates should not schedule randomly before eligibility is approved.
Eligibility first
School candidates receive eligibility from the approved educator to PSI. PSI candidate information says eligibility is valid for 2 years, and candidates may retake during that period.
Scheduling
Once eligibility notice is received, the candidate contacts PSI to schedule. PSI offers internet scheduling and phone scheduling through its registrar hours.
Exam-day ID
If you do not present proper identification, arrive after the exam start time, fail to appear or cancel too late, PSI treats it as a missed appointment and the fee may be forfeited.
Exam problem solver
| Situation | What Georgia candidates should know | Best action |
|---|---|---|
| Attended a Georgia school | Eligibility is sent to PSI from the approved educator. | Wait for eligibility notice before scheduling. |
| Closed school candidate | Do not send documents to PSI until the Board issues a Verification of Eligibility Form. | Request training hours/verification through the Board first. |
| Apprentice candidate | The Board reviews apprentice hours and may mail a Verification of Eligibility Form if requirements are met. | Submit the verification form with the PSI exam registration process. |
| Endorsement applicant | Out-of-state or out-of-country applicants may not need exams if approved by the Board, but the Board may require Georgia exams if requirements are not met. | Apply to the Board first, not directly to PSI. |
| Need to cancel/reschedule | PSI bulletin says cancellation notice must be received 2 days before the scheduled exam date to avoid forfeiting the fee. | Use PSI website or call PSI directly; voicemail is not acceptable. |
| Passed both exams | PSI bulletin says after passing written and practical exams, applicants may apply online for licensure. | Use GOALS and attach required documents. |
| Score report needed | Written score reports are received immediately; some practical results may take longer depending on exam/site. | Use PSI score report support before contacting the Board about test results. |
Practical exam reminders
- Bring required kit/supplies in sanitary condition.
- Wear neat, clean professional attire; practical exam instructions require a sleeved smock/lab coat and closed-toe shoes.
- Follow public protection and infection control procedures during the entire practical exam.
- Do not bring notes, task lines, cheat sheets or the candidate bulletin into the examination site.
- Barber exams use models only; barbers may not use a mannequin head under PSI bulletin instructions.
Georgia Cosmetology Endorsement: Transfer From Another State Without Guessing
Georgia Board how-to pages repeatedly use the term endorsement and state that users seeking to “transfer” a current license should complete the endorsement path. This is not always an automatic no-exam transfer.
Typical endorsement checklist
- Completed application with fee in the official system.
- Verification of original licensure.
- Verification of current licensure where applicable.
- Education verification if required by the category.
- Secure and verifiable document.
- Affidavit of citizenship and immigration documents if applicable.
- Disciplinary action/sanction documents if applicable.
- Georgia written or practical exam proof if the Board requires it.
Why endorsement gets delayed
- Old state license is expired, inactive or not in good standing.
- Verification comes from the applicant instead of official licensing authority.
- Legal name differs across ID, old license and application.
- Education/hours cannot be verified.
- Board requires a Georgia exam step and the applicant applies to PSI too early.
Georgia Cosmetology Apprentice License: Hours, Time Minimums and Change Rules
Georgia apprentice routes have both time and hour minimums. Do not begin training under the wrong shop/master setup or submit an exam application before the Board confirms eligibility.
| Apprentice category | Minimum time | Minimum hours |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology Apprentice | 18 months | 3,000 hours |
| Esthetician Apprentice | 18 months | 2,000 hours |
| Nail Technician Apprentice | 8 months | 1,050 hours |
| Hair Design Apprentice | 14 months | 2,650 hours |
| Master Barber Apprentice | 18 months | 3,000 hours |
| Barber II Apprentice | 14 months | 2,280 hours |
Apprentice application checklist
- Non-refundable four-year apprentice application fee is listed as $90 in Board materials.
- Change of shop/master or older two-year apprentice renewal is also listed as $90.
- Submit secure and verifiable document/citizenship status information.
- Include copy of current shop license and master license where required.
- Include release letter from previous master if changing supervisor.
- Keep your own log/report records because exam eligibility later depends on documented training.
Georgia Salon/Shop License: Opening, Renewal, Change of Ownership and Inspection Risk
A personal cosmetology or barber license is not the same as a Georgia salon/shop license. Businesses must handle the facility license separately and track different deadlines and fees.
Before lease/signing
- Confirm the business model: salon, shop, suite, booth rental or school.
- Verify zoning, business registration and physical location details.
- Check whether prior owner records need change of ownership or closure handling.
Board fee planning
- Salon/shop license: $75.
- Change of name/address: $45.
- Change of ownership: $75.
- Renewal by June 30 of odd years: $75.
- Late renewal within 6 months: $200.
- Reinstatement: $300.
Operational readiness
- Keep licensed providers verifiable in GOALS.
- Post/keep required license and inspection documents.
- Maintain sanitation and infection-control readiness.
- Do not advertise services before the business path is handled.
Georgia Cosmetology Complaint Guide: What to Collect Before Filing
Georgia licensing complaints must be submitted in writing online. A strong complaint includes enough identifying information, license search details and supporting documents for the Board to review the issue.
Complaint checklist
- Your name, address, telephone number and email address.
- Name and address of the person or facility being reported.
- License number if available.
- Detailed description of the violation.
- Dates, services, appointment proof and receipt/payment proof.
- Supporting documents such as records, canceled checks, invoices, contracts or photos.
- GOALS license search result if you have it.
When a complaint may be appropriate
- Unlicensed practice or false license claim.
- Salon/shop operating without proper facility license.
- Unsafe sanitation or infection-control practices.
- License category does not match the service performed.
- School, apprentice or instructor concerns.
- Fraudulent billing, contracts, proposals or representations tied to licensed services.
Georgia GOALS Application Troubleshooting: Missing Documents, Old Forms and Processing Delays
The biggest user problem is usually not knowing whether they are applying under the correct category. The second biggest problem is submitting incomplete records.
| Problem | Likely cause | Best fix |
|---|---|---|
| Application rejected or delayed | Missing, incomplete or incorrect documents. | Review every checklist item before submitting and save copies for your records. |
| Old PDF says mail/paper | Older forms may contain older submission instructions. | Current Board page says paper applications are no longer accepted; use GOALS unless the Board gives different instructions. |
| Out-of-country education | Credentials evaluation may be required. | Use Board-approved credentials evaluation instructions before submitting. |
| Disciplinary history | Court documents, letter of explanation or alternative discipline enrollment may be required. | Prepare complete explanation and documents before applying. |
| Veteran preference points | DD-214 and eligibility documentation may be needed. | Prepare military documentation before exam/application deadline. |
| ADA exam accommodation | Accommodation request needs Board/vendor form and supporting documentation. | Submit ADA request early, not on exam day. |
| Application withdrawn after deficiency | Older application checklist warns incomplete applications can be withdrawn after 60 days. | Respond quickly to any deficiency message and do not let the file sit incomplete. |
Bing Deep Dive Into Georgia Cosmetology Board User Intent
These deeper quick-answer blocks help AI search, Bing and Copilot-style answers understand the specific Georgia licensing situation.
GOALS vs Georgia Board website
The Board page explains services and official notices; GOALS is the portal where users apply, renew, search, print and manage license services.
Paper applications after GOALS
Current Board messaging says paper applications are no longer accepted and will be returned; old PDFs may still appear in search results.
First renewal CE exemption
Board CE FAQ says first-time renewal is not required to meet CE, but users should still check GOALS/CE Broker for current renewal prompts.
Reinstatement CE warning
Reinstatement applications are not eligible for a CE waiver; required CE since the license lapsed must be documented.
Endorsement not automatic reciprocity
Georgia may require licensure verification, education records, and possibly Georgia exams depending on Board review.
Salon/shop license vs personal license
A worker’s personal license does not automatically authorize the business location. Verify both.
Official Source Library for This Georgia Cosmetology Board Guide
Use these official pages for final decisions, legal license status, payments, forms, CE reporting and portal actions. This website is not the official Georgia government website.
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers Contact Information
For official license decisions, portal access, payments, legal status, complaints, forms and final Board instructions, use the Georgia Secretary of State and GOALS directly.
| Item | Official information / best action |
|---|---|
| Agency | Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers |
| Division | Georgia Secretary of State Professional Licensing Boards Division |
| Current location listed on Board page | 3920 Arkwright Rd., Suite 195, Macon, GA 31210 |
| Official board website | sos.ga.gov/georgia-state-board-cosmetology-and-barbers |
| GOALS portal | goals.sos.ga.gov |
| Paper application warning | The Board page says paper applications are no longer accepted and will be returned to sender. |
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology FAQs
These FAQs match the visible article content and cover high-intent Georgia questions about lookup, GOALS, renewal, CE Broker, PSI, endorsement, apprentice licensing, salon/shop licensing, fees and complaints.
Is this the official Georgia State Board of Cosmetology website?
No. This is an independent informational guide. For payments, license status, GOALS access, complaints and final Board decisions, use the official Georgia Secretary of State website and GOALS portal.
What is the official name of the Georgia cosmetology board?
The official board name is the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers, which is part of the Georgia Secretary of State Professional Licensing Boards Division.
Where do I search for a Georgia cosmetology license?
Use the GOALS portal to search for a Georgia licensee or facility. Search by the best available legal name, facility name or license number and verify the license type and current status.
Can I still mail a paper application to the Georgia Cosmetology Board?
The current Board page says paper applications are no longer accepted and paper applications received will be returned to sender. Use GOALS unless the Board gives a specific alternate instruction.
What is GOALS for Georgia cosmetology licensing?
GOALS is the Georgia licensing portal used for services such as applying for a license, checking application status, renewing, searching for a licensee, printing a license and ordering license verification.
What is the Georgia master cosmetologist renewal deadline?
The Board fee schedule and how-to guidance list March 31 of even years for Master Cosmetologist renewal.
What is the Georgia esthetician and nail technician renewal deadline?
Georgia guidance lists August 31 of odd years for Esthetician and Nail Technician renewal.
What is the Georgia hair designer renewal deadline?
The Board fee schedule lists September 30 of even years for Hair Designer renewal.
What is the Georgia barber renewal deadline?
The Board fee schedule lists December 31 of even years for Master Barber and Barber II renewal.
How many continuing education hours are required in Georgia?
Most renewing licensees must complete 5 CE hours every 2 years after the first renewal. Three hours must be health and safety, and two hours may be in approved areas such as industry trends, business management, computer skills or the licensee’s area of practice.
What changed with CE Broker in Georgia in 2026?
Beginning January 1, 2026, Georgia cosmetology and barber licensees must register and report continuing education coursework and proof of completion in CE Broker.
Does the first Georgia cosmetology renewal require CE?
Board CE FAQ guidance says the first time you renew your license you are not required to meet the CE requirements, but users should still check GOALS and CE Broker prompts before renewing.
Can CE be waived for Georgia reinstatement?
No. Board CE guidance says reinstatement applications are not eligible for a waiver of continuing education; documentation must be submitted for required CE hours since the license lapsed.
Who administers Georgia cosmetology exams?
Georgia cosmetology examinations are administered by PSI, and the exam content is based on NIC examinations.
How long is PSI exam eligibility valid in Georgia?
PSI candidate information says school-candidate eligibility is valid for 2 years. During that period, a candidate may retake if needed; after that period, reapplication is required.
What happens if I miss my PSI exam in Georgia?
If you do not cancel in time, do not appear, arrive after the start time or do not present proper identification, PSI may treat it as a missed appointment and the exam fee can be forfeited.
What should I do after passing both Georgia cosmetology exams?
After passing both the written and practical examinations, use GOALS to apply for licensure and submit the required documents, fee and checklist items.
Does Georgia offer reciprocity for cosmetology licenses?
Georgia Board pages use the term endorsement. Out-of-state applicants should use the licensure by endorsement path and provide official verification and other checklist documents; Georgia exams may still be required if the Board determines requirements are not met.
What is the Georgia endorsement application fee?
The Board fee schedule lists licensure by endorsement at $75 and instructor licensure by endorsement at $100. Always confirm the final GOALS amount before payment.
What is the Georgia cosmetology application by exam fee?
The Board fee schedule lists $30 for application by exam for Master Cosmetologist, Esthetician, Nail Technician, Hair Designer, Master Barber and Barber II categories. Processing fees may also apply.
How much is a Georgia salon/shop license?
The Board fee schedule lists a salon/shop license at $75, salon/shop renewal at $75 by June 30 of odd years, late renewal at $200 within 6 months and reinstatement at $300.
Do Georgia salon owners need a separate license from their personal license?
Yes. A personal beauty or barber license is not the same as a salon/shop facility license. The business location must be properly licensed separately.
What are Georgia apprentice hour requirements?
Board FAQ guidance lists minimum apprentice requirements such as 18 months and 3,000 hours for cosmetology apprentice, 18 months and 2,000 hours for esthetician apprentice, 8 months and 1,050 hours for nail technician apprentice and 14 months and 2,650 hours for hair design apprentice.
How do I file a Georgia cosmetology complaint?
Complaints must be submitted in writing online. Provide your contact information, the person or facility name/address, license number if available, a detailed description of the violation and supporting documents.
What is the current Georgia Board office location?
The official Board page lists the new location as 3920 Arkwright Rd., Suite 195, Macon, GA 31210. Always verify current instructions before mailing anything.
Georgia Cosmetology Board: Best Final Step
Use this guide to choose the correct path, then complete the final action in GOALS or on the official Georgia Secretary of State page. Save your receipts, CE proof, PSI score reports, endorsement verifications and license-search screenshots.
Independent informational guide. Not a government website. Final legal, license and payment decisions belong to the official Georgia Board and GOALS portal.