In some states like Virginia, officials are asking for a bigger percent when barbers, hairstylists and cosmetologists get their cosmetology state licenses. The Virginia Board of  Cosmetology has proposed almost doubling the license fees for individuals and facilities it regulates.

The current cosmetology license fee for barbers, cosmetologists and nail technicians to get a cosmetology license is $75. The cost covers validation for two years. The board has propose nearly doubling this fee and charging $140 to obtain a two year license.

“It’s reflecting the increased cost of doing business,” said Mary Vaughn, the director of communications, legislation and consumer education at the state Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
Increasing this fee would also cause other licensing fees to rise. Licensing fees for salons and other facilities also would increase from $115 to $225. Licensing fees for beauty schools would go from $145 to $255.

Why the big increases? Is it really necessary? The Board for Barbers and Cosmetology says it needs the fee increases because the agency is self-supporting. The Board’s side is they rely on the fees to cover the costs for its operations, which include inspectors’ salaries and website management.

The proposal was approved by Jim Cheng, Virginia’s secretary of commerce of trade, this past April. The licensing fee increases are now waiting for Gov. Bob McDonnell’s signature. Upon signature the higher fees would do into effect immediately. To see what all the old and new proposed fees are for all areas of beauty in Virginia, visit http://snipurl.com/va_fees

State law requires all individuals employed in barbering, cosmetology, nail care, waxing, hair braiding, tattooing, body-piercing, esthetics and hair braiding to have a valid issued by the Board for Barbers and Cosmetology. For questions, contact the Virginia State Board of Cosmetology.