Ohio guide
Ohio cosmetology and barber license renewal dates
Ohio cosmetology-branch licenses (cosmetologist, hair designer, esthetician, natural hair stylist, manicurist, independent contractor, salon) expire on January 31 of odd-numbered years. The current period ends January 31, 2027. Barber and barbershop licenses expire on August 31 of even-numbered years, with renewal due by September 1. The next barber expiration is August 31, 2028. (ORC 4713.57, ORC 4709.11)
The two cycles
Ohio runs cosmetology and barbering on two different calendars. Mixing them up is the most common renewal mistake.
| License type | Expires | Renewal cycle | CE deadline | Next dates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist, hair designer, esthetician, natural hair stylist, manicurist | January 31 | Odd-numbered years | January 15 of the same year | CE by Jan. 15, 2027, license by Jan. 31, 2027 |
| Independent contractor (cosmetology branch), salon, school, boutique registration | January 31 | Odd-numbered years | n/a for facilities | Jan. 31, 2027 |
| Barber, barber instructor, barbershop, barber independent contractor | August 31 | Even-numbered years, renew on or before September 1 | August 15 of the same year | CE by Aug. 15, 2028, license by Aug. 31, 2028 |
ORC 4713.57, ORC 4713.59, ORC 4709.11
When renewal opens
The Board opens online renewal in its eLicense system a few months before the deadline. For the 2026 barber cycle, renewals opened May 3, 2026. Watch for the Board’s email and make sure the address on your eLicense account is current, because the renewal notice goes there. cos.ohio.gov news, April 6, 2026
What renewal asks for
- Log in to eLicense Ohio and start the renewal for each license you hold.
- Attest that your continuing education is complete. Keep certificates in case the Board audits. ORC 4713.60(A)
- Pay the renewal fee. Practicing-license renewal is $65, for barbers and for every cosmetology-branch license. Independent contractor renewal is $70. OAC 4713-13-02 Salon and barbershop renewal fees show in eLicense when you renew.
- File on or before the end of the licensing period. OAC 4713-21-04
If your license already expired
An expired license can be restored. You pay the restoration fee and complete the current CE requirement, then reapply. A license that was revoked, suspended, or placed inactive is handled differently. ORC 4713.63 Do not work on an expired license while you wait. Practicing without a current license is a violation and an inspector will write it.
Military, illness and emergencies
The Board can extend the CE deadline for an emergency, a prolonged illness, or active military service. Service members and their spouses get an extension equal to their days on active duty. ORC 4713.60, OAC 4713-21-04
Amanda’s note
“Every January and every August I met cosmetologists who thought their license was fine because they had paid something. It was the salon license, or last cycle’s fee. Pull up eLicense and look at the expiration date printed on your own license.”
Renew your insurance the same week
Your liability policy does not renew with your license. Set one reminder for both. Coverage through Buckeye Beauty & Barber Insurance starts from $193 a year, paid once, no added fees. Pick cosmetologist or barber to see your price.