Chapter 20. Barbering and Cosmetology Regulations
Part I
General
18VAC41-20-10. Definitions.
A. The following words and terms when used in this chapter have the meanings ascribed to them in § 54.1-700 of the Code of Virginia:
"Barber"
"Barbering"
"Barber instructor"
"Barbershop"
"Board"
"Cosmetologist"
"Cosmetology"
"Cosmetology instructor"
"Cosmetology salon"
"Master barber"
"Nail care"
"Nail salon"
"Nail school"
"Nail technician"
"Nail technician instructor"
"Physical (wax) depilatory"
"School of cosmetology"
"Wax technician"
"Waxing"
"Waxing salon"
"Waxing school"
B. The following words and terms when used in this chapter have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
"Apprenticeship program" means an approved cosmetology, barber, nail technician, or wax technician training program conducted by an approved registered apprenticeship sponsor.
"Barber school" means a place or establishment licensed by the board to accept and train students and that offers a barber, master barber, or dual barber/master barber curriculum approved by the board.
"Business entity" means a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, limited liability partnership, or any other form of organization permitted by law.
"Clock hour" means a minimum of 50 minutes of supervised or directed instruction and appropriate breaks.
"Credit hour" means a combination of the number of hours in class each week and the number of hours per week in a laboratory by which a school may measure coursework. One unit of credit equals one hour of classroom or online study, two hours of laboratory experience, or three hours of internship or practicum or a combination of the three times the number of weeks in the term.
"Direct supervision" means that (i) a Virginia licensed barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician is present in the barbershop, cosmetology salon, nail salon, or waxing salon at all times when services are being performed by a temporary license holder or registered apprentice or (ii) a Virginia licensed and certified barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician instructor or a student instructor temporary license holder is present in the barber, cosmetology, nail technician, or wax technician school at all times when services are being performed by a student, student instructor, or temporary license holder.
"Each and every location" means, for the purposes of schools with multiple suites or classrooms, a single location is one that is enclosed under one roof and all classrooms or suites are within 500 feet of the main office.
"Firm" means any business entity recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
"Licensee" means any individual or firm holding a license issued by the board.
"Post-secondary educational level" means an accredited college or university that is approved or accredited by an accrediting agency that is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.
"Reasonable hours" means the hours between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.; however, if the licensee is generally not substantially open to the public during the same hours, "reasonable hours" means the business hours when the licensee is open to the public.
"Reinstatement" means having a license or certificate restored to effectiveness after the expiration date has passed.
"Renewal" means continuing the effectiveness of a license or certificate for another period of time.
"Responsible management" means the following individuals:
1. The sole proprietor of a sole proprietorship;
2. The partners of a general partnership;
3. The managing partners of a limited partnership;
4. The officers of a corporation;
5. The managers of a limited liability company;
6. The officers or directors of an association; and
7. Individuals in other business entities recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth as having a fiduciary responsibility to the firm.
"Sole proprietor" means any individual, not a corporation, who is trading under that individual's own name or under an assumed or fictitious name pursuant to the provisions of §§ 59.1-69 through 59.1-76 of the Code of Virginia.
"Substantially equivalent exam" means an examination administered by the licensing entity that covers Virginia's scope of practice for that profession.
"Substantially equivalent training" means at least 80% of the required hours in Virginia and curriculum content covering Virginia's scope of practice for that profession.
"Virginia state institution" means any institution approved by the Virginia Department of Education or the Virginia Department of Corrections.
"Wet disinfection unit" is a container large enough to hold an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered disinfectant that is a bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal solution in which the objects to be disinfected are completely immersed.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 37, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-15. Gratuitous services.
As provided in subdivision 5 of § 54.1-701 of the Code of Virginia, any individual who engages in barbering, master barbering, cosmetology, nail care, or waxing without receiving compensation, reward, or obligation is considered to be performing gratuitous services and is exempt from the provisions of this chapter. Gratuitous services do not include services provided at no charge when goods are purchased.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
Part II
Entry
18VAC41-20-20. General requirements for a barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician license.
A. Any individual wishing to engage in barbering, cosmetology, nail care, or waxing must obtain a license in compliance with § 54.1-703 of the Code of Virginia and must meet the following qualifications:
1. The applicant must be in good standing as a licensed barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician in Virginia and all other jurisdictions where licensed, certified, or registered. The applicant must provide a copy of any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions to the board at the time of application for licensure. This includes monetary penalties, fines, probation, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action, or voluntary termination of a license.
Upon review of the applicant's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant who the board deems unfit or unsuited to engage in barbering, cosmetology, nail care, or waxing.
2. The applicant must disclose the applicant's physical address. A post office box may be provided as a secondary address.
3. The applicant must sign, as part of the application, a statement certifying that the applicant has read and understands the Virginia barber and cosmetology license laws and this chapter.
4. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant must disclose all felony convictions in Virginia and all other jurisdictions within 10 years of the date of application.
The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.
5. The applicant must provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant has passed the board-approved examination, administered either by the board or by independent examiners.
B. Eligibility to sit for board-approved examination.
1. Training in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Any person completing one of the following programs is eligible for examination:
a. An approved barber, master barber, cosmetology, nail technician, or wax technician training program in a Virginia licensed barber, cosmetology, nail technician, or wax technician school.
b. A Virginia public school's barber, master barber, cosmetology, nail technician, or wax technician program approved by the Virginia Department of Education.
c. A registered apprenticeship.
d. Training as a barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician in any Virginia state institution.
2. Training outside of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
a. Any person completing a barber, master barber, cosmetology, nail care, or waxing training or apprenticeship program that is substantially equivalent to the Virginia program but is outside of the Commonwealth of Virginia must submit to the board documentation of the substantially equivalent training to be eligible for examination. Applicants who have earned a degree from an institution outside the United States must have their degree translated, authenticated, and evaluated by an education evaluation service if credit is sought for the education. The board in its discretion may decline to accept any evaluation submitted by an applicant.
b. Applicants who completed a training or apprenticeship program that is not substantially equivalent to Virginia's training must submit documentation acceptable to the board verifying three years of work experience. Applicants should provide their work history demonstrating three years of experience as a licensed barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician in any other state or jurisdiction of the United States on a form provided by the board.
3. Any barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician applicant having a minimum of two years of experience in barbering, master barbering, cosmetology, nail care, or waxing in the United States Armed Forces and having provided documentation satisfactory to the board of that experience is eligible for the respective examination.
4. A Virginia licensed cosmetologist with a minimum of two years of work experience is eligible for the master barber examination; likewise, a Virginia licensed master barber with a minimum of two years of work experience is eligible for the cosmetology examination.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 37, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2021; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021; Errata, 38:6 VA.R. 752 November 8, 2021; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-30. License by endorsement.
A. Upon proper application to the board, any person currently licensed to practice as a barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician or who is a licensed instructor in the respective profession in any other state or jurisdiction of the United States and who has completed a training or apprenticeship program and a written and a practical examination that is substantially equivalent to the training and examinations required by this chapter may be issued a barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician license or the respective instructor certificate without an examination. The applicant must also meet the requirements set forth in 18VAC41-20-20 A.
B. An applicant for licensure by endorsement who has completed an equivalent training or apprenticeship program and whose state only utilizes one licensing examination (written or practical) that is substantially equivalent to the examination required by this chapter may take the other examination (written or practical) in Virginia to qualify for licensure.
C. Applicants for licensure by endorsement who completed a training or apprenticeship program that is not substantially equivalent to Virginia's training but who otherwise meet all the requirements listed in subsection A of this section may substitute three years of work experience for training. Applicants must provide a work history demonstrating three years of licensed experience in any other state or jurisdiction of the United States on a form provided by the board.
D. An applicant licensed as a barber or master barber in another state with a similar scope of practice as a master barber in Virginia may be licensed as a master barber by endorsement.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 37, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-40. Apprenticeship training.
A. Licensed barbers, master barbers, cosmetologists, and nail technicians who train apprentices must comply with the standards for registered apprenticeship.
B. Licensed barbershops, cosmetology salons, and nail salons where apprentices train must comply with the standards for registered apprenticeship training.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-50. (Repealed.)
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 38, Issue 11, eff. March 7, 2022; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-60. Examination requirements and fees.
A. Applicants for initial licensure must pass a practical examination and written examination approved by the board.
B. Any applicant who passes either the practical or written examination will not be required to take that examination again, provided both examinations are passed within one year of the initial examination date.
C. The fee for examination or reexamination is subject to contracted charges to the board by an outside vendor. These contracts are competitively negotiated and bargained for in compliance with the Virginia Public Procurement Act (§ 2.2-4300 et seq. of the Code of Virginia). Fees may be adjusted and charged to the candidate in accordance with these contracts. The fee will not exceed $225 per candidate.
D. Any candidate failing to apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both the practical and written examinations will be required to retake both examinations.
E. Any applicant who does not pass a reexamination within one year of the initial examination date will be required to submit a new application.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-70. (Repealed.)
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-80. Examination administration.
A. The examinations must be administered by the board or the designated testing service. The practical examination must be supervised by a chief examiner.
B. Every barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician examiner must hold a current Virginia license in the respective profession, have three or more years of active experience as a licensed professional, and be currently practicing in that profession.
C. No certified barber, master barber, cosmetology, nail technician, or wax technician instructor who is (i) currently teaching, (ii) a school owner, or (iii) an apprentice sponsor may be an examiner.
D. Each barber, master barber, cosmetology, nail technician, and wax technician chief examiner must (i) hold a current Virginia license in the respective profession, (ii) have three or more years of active experience in that profession, (iii) have one year of active experience as an examiner, and (iv) be currently practicing in the respective profession. A licensed cosmetologist may serve as an examiner for any license type that is included in the cosmetology profession.
E. The applicant must follow all procedures established by the board with regard to conduct at an examination. Such procedures include written instructions communicated prior to the examination date and instructions communicated at the site, either written or oral, on the date of the examination. Failure to comply with all procedures established by the board and the testing service with regard to conduct at the examination may be grounds for denial of application.
F. Examiners and chief examiners must attend training workshops sponsored by the board or by a testing service acting on behalf of the board.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-90. Barber, master barber, cosmetology, nail technician, and wax technician temporary licenses.
A. A temporary license to work under the direct supervision of a currently licensed individual may be issued only to applicants for initial licensure who the board finds eligible for the applicable examination. There is no fee for a temporary license. Except as provided in this section, an applicant holding a temporary license must be supervised by an individual holding a license in the same scope of practice.
Licensed cosmetologists may also supervise nail and waxing temporary license holders. Licensed estheticians and master estheticians may also supervise waxing temporary license holders. Licensed master barbers may also supervise barber temporary license holders.
B. The temporary license will remain in force for 90 days, and no subsequent temporary license will be issued.
C. Any person continuing to practice barbering, master barbering, cosmetology, nail care, or waxing services after a temporary license has expired may be prosecuted and fined by the Commonwealth under §§ 54.1-111 A 1 and 54.1-202 of the Code of Virginia.
D. Temporary licenses will not be issued where grounds may exist to deny a license pursuant to § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia or 18VAC41-20-20.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 40, Issue 23, eff. August 15, 2024.
18VAC41-20-100. General requirements for an instructor certificate.
A. Any individual wishing to engage in instruction in barbering, master barbering, cosmetology, nail care, or waxing must meet the following qualifications:
1. The applicant must be in good standing as a licensed barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician and instructor, respectively, in every jurisdiction where licensed, certified, or registered. The applicant must provide a copy to the board of any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions at the time of application for certification since being previously licensed as a barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician. This includes monetary penalties, fines, probation, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license or certification in connection with a disciplinary action, or voluntary termination of a license or certification.
Upon review of the applicant's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny certification to any applicant that the board deems unfit or unsuited to engage in the instruction of barbering, cosmetology, nail care, or waxing;
2. The applicant must hold and maintain a current Virginia barber, master barber, cosmetology, nail technician, or wax technician license, respectively;
3. The applicant must complete one of the following qualifications:
a. Pass a course in teaching techniques at the post-secondary educational level; or
b. Pass an instructor examination administered by the board or by a testing service acting on behalf of the board; and
4. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant must disclose all felony convictions in Virginia and all other jurisdictions since being previously licensed as a barber, master barber, cosmetologist, wax technician, or nail technician within 10 years of the date of application.
The board, in its discretion, may deny certification to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.
B. Certified instructors may teach in any profession in which they hold the underlying license.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-110. Student instructor temporary license.
A. A licensed barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician may be granted a 12-month student instructor temporary license to function under the direct supervision of a certified instructor in a licensed school. No subsequent student instructor temporary license will be issued. Student instructors must pass an instructor examination administered by the board or by a testing service acting on behalf of the board.
B. Student instructors may teach in any profession in which they hold the underlying license. Failure to maintain a barber, master barber, cosmetology, nail technician, or wax technician license will disqualify an individual from holding a student instructor temporary license.
C. Licensed cosmetologists may also supervise nail and waxing student instructor temporary license holders. Licensed estheticians and master estheticians may also supervise waxing student instructor temporary license holders. Licensed master barbers may also supervise barber student instructor temporary license holders.
D. The student instructor temporary license holder must be associated with both a school and a direct supervisor.
E. Temporary licenses may not be issued where grounds may exist to deny a license pursuant to § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia or 18VAC41-20-100.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-120. General requirements for a shop or salon license.
A. Any firm wishing to operate a barbershop, cosmetology salon, nail salon, or waxing salon, including any mobile shop or salon, must obtain a shop or salon license in compliance with § 54.1-704.1 of the Code of Virginia and must meet the following qualifications in order to receive a license:
1. The applicant and all members of the responsible management must be in good standing as a licensed shop or salon in Virginia and all other jurisdictions where licensed, certified, or registered. The applicant and all members of the responsible management must provide a copy of any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions to the board at the time of application for licensure. This includes monetary penalties, fines, probation, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action, or voluntary termination of a license.
Upon review of the applicant's and all members of the responsible management's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant that the board deems unfit or unsuited to engage in the operation of a barbershop, cosmetology salon, nail salon, or waxing salon.
2. The applicant must disclose the applicant's physical address. A post office box may be provided as secondary address. Mobile shops and salons must provide a physical address where the shop or salon is permanently garaged.
3. The applicant must sign, as part of the application, a statement certifying that the applicant has read and understands the Virginia barber and cosmetology license laws and this chapter.
4. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant must disclose all felony convictions in Virginia and all other jurisdictions for the firm and all members of the firm's responsible management within 10 years of the date of application.
The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.
5. The applicant must disclose the firm's responsible management.
B. Shop or salon licenses are issued to firms as defined in this chapter and are not transferable. Any changes in the name or address of the shop or salon must be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of such changes. The board will not be responsible for the licensee's failure to receive notices, communications, and correspondence caused by the licensee's failure to promptly notify the board in writing of any change of name or address or for any other reason beyond the control of the board.
C. Whenever the legal business entity holding the license is dissolved or altered to form a new business entity, the original license becomes void. The firm must notify the board, apply for a new license within 30 days of the change in the business entity, and destroy the license. Such changes include:
1. Death of a sole proprietor;
2. Death or withdrawal of a general partner in a general partnership or the managing partner in a limited partnership; and
3. Conversion, formation, or dissolution of a corporation, a limited liability company, an association, or any other business entity recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
D. Any change in the officers of a corporation, managers of a limited liability company, or officers or directors of an association must be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of the change.
E. The board or any of its agents must be allowed to inspect during reasonable hours any licensed shop or salon for compliance with provisions of Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or this chapter.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-130. General requirements for a school license.
A. Any firm wishing to operate a barber, cosmetology, nail technician, or wax technician school must submit an application to the board at least 60 days prior to the date for which approval is sought, obtain a school license in compliance with § 54.1-704.2 of the Code of Virginia, and meet the following qualifications in order to receive a license:
1. The applicant and all members of the responsible management must be in good standing as a licensed school in Virginia and any other jurisdiction where licensed, certified, or registered. The applicant and all members of the responsible management must provide a copy of any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions to the board at the time of application for licensure. This includes monetary penalties, fines, probation, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action, or voluntary termination of a license.
Upon review of the applicant's and all members of the responsible management's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant that the board deems unfit or unsuited to engage in the operation of a barbering, cosmetology, nail, or waxing school.
2. The applicant must disclose the applicant's physical address. A post office box may be provided as secondary address.
3. The applicant must sign, as part of the application, a statement certifying that the applicant has read and understands the Virginia barber and cosmetology license laws and this chapter.
4. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant must disclose all felony convictions in Virginia and all other jurisdictions for the firm and all members of the firm's responsible management within 10 years of the date of application.
The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.
5. The applicant must disclose the firm's responsible management.
B. Barber, cosmetology, nail technician, and wax technician school licenses are issued to firms as defined in this chapter and are not transferable. Any changes in the name and address of record or principal place of business of the school must be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of such change. The board will not be responsible for the licensee's failure to receive notices, communications, and correspondence caused by the licensee's failure to promptly notify the board in writing of any change of name or address or for any other reason beyond the control of the board. The name of the school must indicate that it is an educational institution. All signs or other advertisements must reflect the name as indicated on the license issued by the board and contain language indicating it is an educational institution.
C. Whenever the legal business entity holding the license is dissolved or altered to form a new business entity, the original license becomes void. The firm must notify the board, apply for a new license within 30 days of the change in business entity, and destroy the license. Such changes include:
1. Death of a sole proprietor;
2. Death or withdrawal of a general partner in a general partnership or the managing partner in a limited partnership; and
3. Conversion, formation, or dissolution of a corporation, a limited liability company, an association, or any other business entity recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
D. Within 30 days of ceasing to operate, whether through dissolution or alteration of the business entity, the school must provide a written report to the board detailing the performances and hours of each student who has not completed the program.
E. Any change in the officers of a corporation, managers of a limited liability company, or officers or directors of an association must be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of the change.
F. Barber schools, cosmetology schools, nail schools, or waxing schools under the Virginia Department of Education are exempt from licensure requirements.
G. The board or any of its agents must be allowed to inspect during reasonable hours any licensed school for compliance with provisions of Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or this chapter.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
Part III
Fees
18VAC41-20-140. Fees.
The following fees apply. All fees are nonrefundable and will not be prorated.
FEE TYPE | AMOUNT DUE | WHEN DUE |
Individuals: | ||
Application | $120 | With application |
License by Endorsement | $120 | With application |
Renewal: | ||
Barber | $120 | With renewal card prior to expiration date |
Master Barber | $120 | With renewal card prior to expiration date |
Cosmetologist | $120 | With renewal card prior to expiration date |
Nail Technician | $120 | With renewal card prior to expiration date |
Wax Technician | $120 | With renewal card prior to expiration date |
Reinstatement | $240* | With reinstatement application |
Instructor Certificate: | ||
Application | $140 | With application |
License by Endorsement | $140 | With application |
Renewal | $45 | With renewal card prior to expiration date |
Reinstatement | $90* | With reinstatement application |
Facilities: | ||
Application | $220 | With application |
Renewal | $220 | With renewal card prior to expiration date |
Reinstatement | $440* | With reinstatement application |
Schools: | ||
Application | $250 | With application |
Add Program | $120 | With application |
Renewal | $250 | With renewal card prior to expiration date |
Reinstatement | $500* | With reinstatement application |
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. September 1, 2011; Volume 30, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2014; Volume 32, Issue 24, eff. September 1, 2016; Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 34, Issue 22, eff. June 25, 2018; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 36, Issue 21, eff. September 1, 2020; Volume 38, Issue 25, eff. September 1, 2022; Volume 41, Issue 22, eff. August 1, 2025; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-150. (Repealed.)
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
Part IV
Renewal/Reinstatement
18VAC41-20-160. Renewal required.
A license or certificate issued under this chapter expires two years from the last day of the month in which it was issued.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-170. Notice of renewal.
The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation will send a renewal notice to the licensee or certificate holder outlining the procedures for renewal. Failure to receive this notice, however, does not relieve the licensee or certificate holder of the obligation to renew.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-180. Failure to renew.
A. When an individual or business entity fails to renew a license or certificate within 30 days following the expiration date, the licensee or certificate holder who intends to remain licensed or certified must pay the reinstatement fee.
B. When an individual or business entity fails to renew a license or certification within two years following the expiration date, reinstatement is no longer possible. To resume practice:
1. The former licensee or certificate holder must apply for licensure or certification as a new applicant and must meet all current entry requirements for each respective license or certificate.
2. An individual previously licensed in Virginia for a minimum of three years must submit a new application and pass the required examination.
C. When a licensed school fails to renew its license within 30 days following the expiration date, the licensee must pay the reinstatement fee.
1. After 180 days, the school must submit a reinstatement application and provide (i) the reasons for failing to renew prior to the expiration date and (ii) a notarized statement that all students currently enrolled or seeking to enroll at the school have been notified in writing that the school's license has expired. All of these materials shall be called the application package. Reinstatement will be considered by the board if the school consents to and satisfactorily passes an inspection of the school. Pursuant to 18VAC41-20-130, upon receipt of the reinstatement fee, application package, and inspection results, the board may reinstate the school's license or require requalification.
2. If the reinstatement application package and reinstatement fee are not received by the board within six months following the expiration date of the school's license, the board will notify the testing service that prospective graduates of the unlicensed school are not acceptable candidates for the examination. Such notification will be sent to the school and must be displayed in a conspicuous manner by the school in an area that is accessible to the public. No student will be disqualified from taking the examination because the school was not licensed for a portion of the time the student attended if the school license is reinstated by the board.
D. The date a renewal fee is received by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation or its agent will be used to determine whether the requirement for reinstatement of a license or certificate is applicable.
E. When a license or certificate is reinstated, the licensee or certificate holder will be assigned an expiration date two years from the date of the last day of the month of reinstatement.
F. A licensee or certificate holder that reinstates a license or certificate will be regarded as having been continuously licensed or certified without interruption. Therefore, a licensee or certificate holder will be subject to the authority of the board for activities performed prior to reinstatement.
G. A licensee or certificate holder that fails to reinstate a license or certificate will be regarded as unlicensed or uncertified from the expiration date of the license or certificate forward. Nothing in this chapter divests the board of its authority to discipline a licensee or certificate holder for a violation of the law or regulations during the period of time for which the individual was licensed or certified.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 39, Issue 22, eff. October 1, 2023; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
Part V
Barber Cosmetology, Nail, and Waxing Schools
18VAC41-20-190. (Repealed.)
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017.
18VAC41-20-200. General requirements.
A. A barber, cosmetology, nail, or waxing school must:
1. Hold a school license for each and every location. Any suites or classrooms that are located in a different building or are further than 500 feet from the main office are considered a separate location, and require the school hold an additional license.
2. Hold a salon or shop license if the school receives compensation for services provided in its clinic.
3. Employ and ensure all training is conducted under the direct supervision of a licensed and certified barber, master barber, cosmetology, nail technician, or wax technician instructor, respectively. A list of all certified instructors must be provided with the application for licensure.
a. Licensed and certified cosmetology instructors may also instruct in nail and waxing programs.
b. Licensed and certified esthetics instructors and master esthetics instructors may also instruct in waxing programs.
c. Any change in instructors must be reported to the board within 30 days of the change.
4. Develop individuals for entry-level competency in barbering, master barbering, cosmetology, nail care, or waxing.
5. Submit its curricula for board approval. All changes to curricula must be resubmitted and approved by the board.
a. Barber curricula must be based on a minimum of 750 clock hours and must include performances in accordance with 18VAC41-20-220 A.
b. Master barber curricula must be based on a minimum of 250 clock hours and must include performances in accordance with 18VAC41-20-220 B.
c. Dual barber/master barber program curricula must be based on a minimum of 1,000 clock hours and must include performances in accordance with 18VAC41-20-220 C.
d. Cosmetology curricula must be based on a minimum of 1,000 clock hours and must include performances in accordance with 18VAC41-20-220 D.
e. Nail technician curricula must be based on a minimum of 150 clock hours and must include performances in accordance with 18VAC41-20-220 E.
f. Wax technician curricula must be based on a minimum of 115 clock hours and must include performances in accordance with 18VAC41-20-220 F.
6. Inform the public that all services are performed by students if the school receives compensation for services provided in its clinic by posting a notice in the reception area of the shop or salon in plain view of the public.
7. Conduct classroom instruction in an area separate from the clinic area where practical instruction is conducted and services are provided. A sketch of the school floor plan must be included in the application for licensure.
B. The theory portions of the curriculum may be offered online. Practical instruction must be obtained in a traditional brick-and-mortar classroom setting. Theory and practical training must be conducted in the same building, unless the school has board approval to offer the theory training online. Schools must utilize technologies and practices that are effective in verifying the identity of distance-learning students who participate in class or coursework (e.g., a secure login and passcode) while protecting student privacy. Educational technologies must be capable of monitoring a student's time and activities. The school must utilize a measure of competency (e.g., an examination) of the information the student is taught online, which must be completed in a traditional brick-and-mortar classroom.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 34, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2018; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 40, Issue 21, eff. September 1, 2024; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-210. Curriculum requirements.
A. Each barber, cosmetology, nail, and waxing school must submit with its application a curriculum, including a course syllabus, a detailed course content outline, a copy of any course text, a sample of five lesson plans, a sample of evaluation methods to be used, days and hours of instruction, program length, a sample of a final transcript, a breakdown of hours and performances for all courses to be taught that will lead to licensure, and a sample test of at least 25 questions that will be administered to students, including answer key.
B. The outline for barbering must include the following:
1. Orientation and business topics - minimum of 25 hours of instruction:
a. School policies;
b. Business and shop management; and
c. Professional ethics and personal hygiene.
2. State law and regulations - minimum of 10 hours of instruction.
3. Shampooing, cutting, thinning, tapering the hair with razor, clippers, and shears - minimum of 270 hours of instruction:
a. Client consultation; and
b. Styling hair with a hand hair dryer.
4. Shaving and trimming a moustache or beard - minimum of 100 hours of instruction, to include client consultation.
5. Applying hair color - minimum of 50 hours of instruction, to include client consultation.
6. Applied sciences - minimum of 100 hours of instruction:
a. Anatomy and physiology;
b. Skin structure and function;
c. Skin types;
d. Skin conditions;
e. Diseases and disorders of the skin;
f. Analyzing skin or scalp conditions; and
g. Giving scalp treatments.
7. General sciences - minimum of 80 hours of instruction:
a. Bacteriology;
b. Microorganisms;
c. Infection control, sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization;
d. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements;
e. Safety Data Sheet (SDS);
f. General procedures and safety measures;
g. Cosmetic chemistry; and
h. Products and ingredients.
8. Facial hair and skin care services - minimum of 100 hours of instruction:
a. Client skin analysis and consultation;
b. Effleurage and related movements and manipulations of the face ;
c. Cleansing procedures;
d. Masks;
e. Extraction techniques;
f. Machines, equipment, and electricity;
g. Manual facials and treatments; and
h. General procedures and safety measures.
9. Understanding and maintaining implements and equipment (e.g., tools) - minimum of 15 hours of instruction.
C. The outline for a barber school adding a master barber program must include the following:
1. Thermal waving - minimum of 20 hours of instruction;
2. Permanent waving and relaxing the hair with chemicals - minimum of 110 hours of instruction;
3. Lightening or toning the hair - minimum of 100 hours of instruction;
4. Hairpieces and wigs - minimum of 15 hours of instruction; and
5. Waxing limited to the scalp - minimum of five hours of instruction.
D. The outline for a barber school adding a dual barber/master barber program must include the following:
1. Orientation and business topics - minimum of 25 hours of instruction:
a. School policies;
b. Business and shop management; and
c. Professional ethics and personal hygiene.
2. State law and regulations - minimum of 10 hours of instruction.
3. Shampooing, cutting, thinning, tapering the hair with a razor, clippers, and shears - minimum of 270 hours of instruction:
a. Client consultation; and
b. Styling the hair with a hand hair dryer.
4. Shaving and trimming a moustache or beard - minimum of 100 hours of instruction, to include client consultation.
5. Applying hair color - minimum of 50 hours of instruction, to include client consultation.
6. Applied sciences - minimum of 100 hours of instruction:
a. Anatomy and physiology;
b. Skin structure and function;
c. Skin types;
d. Skin conditions;
e. Diseases and disorders of the skin;
f. Analyzing skin or scalp conditions; and
g. Giving scalp treatments.
7. General sciences - minimum of 80 hours of instruction:
a. Bacteriology;
b. Microorganisms;
c. Infection control, sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization;
d. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements;
e. Safety Data Sheet (SDS);
f. General procedures and safety measures;
g. Cosmetic chemistry; and
h. Products and ingredients.
8. Facial hair and skin care services - minimum of 100 hours of instruction:
a. Client skin analysis and consultation;
b. Effleurage and related movements and manipulations of the face ;
c. Cleansing procedures;
d. Masks;
e. Extraction techniques;
f. Machines, equipment, and electricity;
g. Manual facials and treatments; and
h. General procedures and safety measures.
9. Understanding and maintaining implements and equipment (e.g., tools) - minimum of 15 hours of instruction.
10. Thermal waving - minimum of 20 hours of instruction.
11. Permanent waving and relaxing the hair with chemicals - minimum of 110 hours of instruction.
12. Lightening or toning the hair - minimum of 100 hours of instruction.
13. Hairpieces and wigs - minimum of 15 hours of instruction.
14. Waxing limited to the scalp - minimum of five hours of instruction.
E. The outline for cosmetology must include the following:
1. Orientation and business topics - minimum of 45 hours of instruction:
a. School policies;
b. Management;
c. Sales, inventory, and retailing;
d. Taxes and payroll;
e. Insurance;
f. Client records and confidentiality; and
g. Professional ethics and practices.
2. Laws and regulations - minimum of 10 hours of instruction.
3. General sciences - minimum of 55 hours of instruction:
a. Principles and practices of infection control;
b. Safety Data Sheet (SDS); and
c. Chemical usage and safety.
4. Applied sciences - minimum of 40 hours of instruction, to include anatomy, physiology, and histology.
5. Shampooing, rinsing, and scalp treatments for all hair types, including textured hair - minimum of 25 hours of instruction:
a. Client consultation and analysis; and
b. Procedures, manipulations, and treatments.
6. Hair styling for all hair types, including textured hair - minimum of 65 hours of instruction:
a. Fingerwaving, molding, and pin curling;
b. Roller curling, combing, and brushing; and
c. Heat curling, waving, and pressing.
7. Hair cutting for all hair types, including textured hair - minimum of 125 hours of instruction:
a. Fundamentals, materials, and equipment; and
b. Procedures.
8. Permanent waving and chemical relaxing for all hair types, including textured hair - minimum of 135 hours of instruction:
a. Chemistry;
b. Supplies and equipment; and
c. Procedures and practical application.
9. Hair coloring and bleaching for all hair types, including textured hair - minimum of 190 hours of instruction:
a. Basic color theory;
b. Supplies and equipment; and
c. Procedures and practical application.
10. Wigs, hair pieces, and related theory - minimum of 15 hours of instruction:
a. Types; and
b. Procedures.
11. Manicuring and pedicuring - minimum of 75 hours of instruction:
a. Nail theory, nail structure, and composition;
b. Nail procedures, including manicuring, pedicuring, and nail extensions; and
c. Electric filing.
12. Skin care - minimum of 150 hours of instruction:
a. Client skin analysis and consultation;
b. Effleurage and related movements and manipulations of the face;
c. Cleansing procedures;
d. Masks;
e. Extraction techniques;
f. Machines avoiding direct contact with the skin;
g. Equipment avoiding direct contact with the skin;
h. Electricity avoiding direct contact with the skin;
i. Manual facials and treatments; and
j. General procedures and safety measures.
13. Lashes and brows - minimum of 35 hours of instruction:
a. Setup, supplies, and implements;
b. Consultation;
c. Application of false lashes and lash extensions;
d. Lash and brow tinting;
e. Lash perming;
f. Lightening of the hair on the body except scalp; and
g. General procedures and safety measures.
14. Hair removal - minimum of 35 hours of instruction:
a. Client consultation and analysis;
b. Waxing;
c. Mechanical hair removal;
d. Tweezing and threading; and
e. Chemical hair removal.
F. The outline for nail care must include the following:
1. Orientation - minimum of five hours of instruction:
a. School policies; and
b. State law, regulations, and professional ethics.
2. Sterilization, sanitation, bacteriology, and safety - minimum of 35 hours of instruction.
3. Anatomy and physiology - minimum of 15 hours of instruction.
4. Diseases and disorders of the nail - minimum of 10 hours of instruction.
5. Nail procedures (i.e., manicuring, pedicuring, and nail extensions) - minimum of 75 hours of instruction.
6. Nail theory and nail structure and composition - minimum of 10 hours of instruction.
G. The outline for waxing must include the following:
1. Orientation - minimum of 10 hours of instruction:
a. School policies;
b. State law, regulations, and professional ethics;
c. Personal hygiene;
d. Salon management; and
e. Care of equipment.
2. Skin care theory, structure, composition, and treatment - minimum of 30 hours of instruction:
a. Analysis;
b. Anatomy and physiology;
c. Diseases and disorders of the skin;
d. Health sterilization, sanitation, bacteriology, and safety, including infectious disease control measures; and
e. Temporary removal of hair.
3. Client consultation - minimum of 10 hours of instruction:
a. Health conditions;
b. Skin analysis;
c. Treatments;
d. Client expectations; and
e. Health forms and questionnaires.
4. Waxing procedures for brow, lip, facial, legs, arms, underarm, chest, back, and bikini areas - minimum of 35 hours of instruction:
a. Fundamentals;
b. Safety rules; and
c. Procedures.
5. Wax treatments - minimum of 30 hours of instruction:
a. Analysis;
b. Disorders and diseases;
c. Manipulations; and
d. Treatments.
H. A licensed school with an approved barber, master barber, dual barber/master barber, cosmetology, nail technician, or wax technician program may conduct an assessment of a transfer student's competence in the respective profession and, based on the assessment, give credit toward the hours requirements specified in the respective subsection of this section and 18VAC41-20-220.
The school must make the assessment based on a review of the student's transcript, documentation of hours and performances provided to the student by the school from where the student is transferring, and the successful completion of a competency examination administered by the school. The school may also request a copy of a catalog or bulletin giving the full course description when making the evaluation. The number of credit hours awarded must not exceed the actual hours of instruction verified on the transcript or the number of hours specified in the board-approved curriculum for a specific topic.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 38, Issue 11, eff. March 7, 2022; Volume 40, Issue 21, eff. September 1, 2024; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-220. Practical performance requirements.
A. The curriculum requirements for barbering must include the following minimum performances:
Hair and scalp treatments | 10 |
Straight razor shaving on face and neck | 12 |
Hair services | 285 |
Hair coloring (including tinting, temporary rinses, and semi-permanent color) | 20 |
Basic facials | 5 |
TOTAL | 332 |
B. The curriculum requirements for master barbering must include the following minimum performances:
Bleaching and frosting | 20 |
Cold permanent waving or chemical relaxing | 30 |
Wig care, styling, placing on model | 15 |
Finger waving and thermal waving | 30 |
Waxing limited to the scalp | 5 |
TOTAL | 100 |
C. The curriculum requirements for dual barber/master barber program must include the following minimum performances:
Hair and scalp treatments | 10 |
Hair services | 285 |
Straight razor shaving on face and neck | 12 |
Bleaching and frosting | 20 |
Hair coloring (including tinting, temporary rinses, and semi-permanent color) | 20 |
Cold permanent waving or chemical relaxing | 30 |
Wig care, styling, placing on model | 15 |
Finger waving and thermal waving | 30 |
Basic facials | 5 |
Waxing limited to the scalp | 5 |
TOTAL | 432 |
D. The curriculum requirements for cosmetology must include the following minimum performances:
Shampooing, rinsing, and scalp treatments, for all hair types, including textured hair | 20 |
Hair styling, for all hair types, including textured hair | 60 |
Hair cutting, for all hair types, including textured hair | 60 |
Permanent waving-chemical relaxing, for all hair types, including textured hair | 60 |
Hair coloring and bleaching, for all hair types, including textured hair | 65 |
Wigs, hair pieces, and related theory | 10 |
Manicuring and pedicuring | 15 procedures |
Individual sculptured nails and nail tips | 30 |
Lashes and brows | 20 |
Skin care | 15 |
Hair removal | 10 |
TOTAL | 365 |
E. The curriculum requirements for nail care must include the following minimum performances:
Manicures | 25 |
Pedicures | 20 |
Individual sculptured nails and nail tips | 170 |
Individual removals | 20 |
UV/LED gel nails | 20 |
TOTAL | 255 |
F. The curriculum requirements for waxing must include the following minimum performances:
Arms | 2 |
Back | 1 |
Bikini area | 4 |
Brows | 12 |
Chest | 1 |
Facial (i.e., face, chin, and cheek and lip) | 6 |
Leg | 2 |
Underarm | 2 |
TOTAL | 30 |
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 40, Issue 21, eff. September 1, 2024; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-230. (Repealed.)
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017.
18VAC41-20-240. Records.
A. Schools must maintain on the premises of each school and available for inspection by the board or any of its agents the following records for the period of a student's enrollment through five years after the student's completion of the curriculum, termination, or withdrawal:
1. Enrollment application containing student's signature and a two-inch by two-inch color head and shoulders photograph;
2. Daily record of attendance containing student's signature;
3. Student clock hours containing student's signature and method of calculation;
4. Practical performance completion sheets containing student's signature;
5. Final transcript;
6. Course descriptions; and
7. All other relevant documents that account for a student's accrued clock hours and practical applications.
B. Schools must produce to the board or any of its agents within 10 days of the request any document, book, or record concerning any student or for which the licensee is required to maintain records for inspection and copying by the board or its agents. The board may extend such timeframe upon a showing of extenuating circumstances prohibiting delivery within such 10-day period.
C. Schools must, within 21 days upon receipt of a written request from a student, provide documentation of hours and performances completed by the student as required to be maintained by subsection A of this section.
D. Prior to a school changing ownership or a school closing, the school is required to provide to current students documentation of hours and performances completed.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-250. Reporting.
A. Each school must provide student rosters to the board quarterly, no later than January 15, April 15, July 15, and October 15 of each year.
1. Each school must provide a roster of all enrolled students and a roster of students who attended in the preceding six months prior to the reporting deadline.
2. Students who are enrolled but have not begun classes must be included in the report.
B. Rosters must be submitted via a secure link provided by the board on the board-supplied document, which will include the student's full name, date of birth, program type, date enrolled, the total number of hours to-date, and the date completed, terminated, or withdrawn.
C. Schools with no students enrolled but with the intention of operating must submit a report stating that information.
D. Schools with no students enrolled that no longer wish to operate should terminate the license in accordance with this chapter.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
Part VI
Standards of Practice
18VAC41-20-260. Display of license.
A. The responsible management for each shop, salon, or school must ensure that all current licenses and certificates issued by the board are displayed in plain view of the public either in the reception area or at individual work stations of the shop, salon, or school. Duplicate licenses and certificates must be posted in a similar manner in every shop, salon, or school location where the regulant provides services.
B. The responsible management for each shop, salon, or school must ensure that no employee, licensee, student, or apprentice performs any service beyond the scope of practice for the applicable license.
C. All licensees, certificate holders, and temporary license holders must operate under the name in which the license, certificate, or permit is issued.
D. Unless also licensed as a cosmetologist, a barber or master barber is required to hold a separate nail technician or wax technician license if performing nail care or waxing.
E. Proof of apprenticeship registration issued by the applicable agency of the Virginia Department of Workforce Development and Advancement (VDWDA) must be displayed in plain view of the public either in the reception area or at individual work stations of the shop or salon. The apprentice sponsor must require each apprentice to wear a badge clearly indicating status as a VDWDA registered apprentice.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-270. Sanitation and safety standards for shops, salons, and schools.
A. Sanitation and safety standards.
1. Any shop, salon, or school where barber, master barber, cosmetology, or nail or wax services are delivered to the public must be clean and sanitary at all times.
2. Mobile shops and salons must be stationary while providing services, and may not operate where prohibited by local ordinance.
3. Compliance with these rules does not confer compliance with other requirements set forth by federal, state, and local laws, codes, ordinances, and regulations as they apply to business operation, physical construction and maintenance, safety, and public health.
4. Licensees must take sufficient measures to prevent the transmission of communicable and infectious diseases and comply with the sanitation standards identified in this section and must ensure that all employees likewise comply.
B. Disinfection and storage of implements.
1. Each barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, and wax technician must have a wet disinfection unit at the individual's station and must meet the standards in the definition of wet disinfection requirements. A wet disinfection unit must have a cover to prevent contamination and any disinfection solutions must be used according to manufacturer's directions.
2. Disinfection of multiuse implements constructed of hard, nonporous materials such as metal, glass, or plastic that the manufacturer designed for use on more than one client, including clippers, scissors, combs, and nippers is to be carried out in the following manner prior to servicing a client:
a. Remove all foreign matter from the object, utilizing a brush if needed. Drill bits are to be soaked in acetone and scrubbed with a wire brush to remove all foreign matter;
b. Wash thoroughly with hot water and soap;
c. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry thoroughly with a clean paper towel;
d. Fully immerse implements into wet disinfectant solution for a minimum of 10 minutes; and
e. After immersion, rinse articles, dry thoroughly with a clean paper towel, and store in a clean, predisinfected, and dry cabinet, drawer, or sealed covered container, or leave instruments in a wet disinfection unit used according to manufacturer's directions.
3. Single-use items designed by the manufacturer for use on no more than one client should be discarded immediately after use on each individual client, including powder puffs, lip color, cheek color, sponges, styptic pencils, nail care implements, or disposable razors. The disinfection and reuse of these items is not permitted and the use of single-use items on more than one client is prohibited.
4. For the purpose of recharging, rechargeable clippers may be stored in an area other than in a closed cabinet or container. This area must be clean and the cutting edges of any clippers are to be disinfected.
5. Electrical clipper blades must be disinfected before and after each use. If the clipper blade cannot be removed, the use of a spray or foam used according to the manufacturer's instructions will be acceptable, provided that the disinfectant is an EPA-registered disinfectant that is bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal, and that the entire handle is also disinfected by wiping with the disinfectant solution.
6. All wax pots must be cleaned and disinfected with an EPA-registered disinfectant that is bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal and with no sticks left standing in the wax at any time. The area immediately surrounding the wax pot must be clean and free of clutter, waste materials, spills, and any other items that may pose a hazard.
7. Foot tubs, whirlpool units, air-jetted basins, pipe-less units, and non-whirlpool basins used in the performance of nail care must be maintained in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations. They must be cleaned and disinfected immediately after each client in the following manner:
a. Drain all water and remove all debris;
b. Clean the surfaces and walls with soap or detergent to remove all visible debris, oils, and product residue and then rinse with water;
c. Disinfect with an EPA-registered disinfectant that is bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal in accordance with manufacturer directions for pedicure units; and
d. Wipe dry with a clean towel.
C. General sanitation and safety requirements.
1. Service chairs, wash basins, sinks, bowls, workstations and workstands, and back bars as necessitated by the services performed, must be clean;
2. The floor surface in all work areas must be of a washable surface other than carpet;
3. All furniture, fixtures, walls, floors, windows, and ceilings must be clean and in good repair and free of water seepage and dirt. Any mats must be secured or must lie flat;
4. A fully functional bathroom in the same building with a working toilet and sink must be available for clients. There must be hot and cold running water. Fixtures must be in good condition. The bathroom must be lighted and sufficiently ventilated. There must be soap and clean single-use towels or hand air-drying device for the client's use. Laundering of towels is allowed, space permitting. The bathroom must not be used as a work area or for the open storage of chemicals. For facilities newly occupied after January 1, 2017, the bathroom must be available for client use and must adhere to all sanitation requirements of this chapter;
5. Electrical cords must be placed to prevent entanglement by the client or licensee, and electrical outlets must be covered by plates;
6. All sharp tools, implements, and heat-producing appliances must be in safe working order at all times, safely stored, and placed so as to prevent any accidental injury to the client or licensee;
7. The salon area must be sufficiently ventilated to exhaust hazardous or objectionable airborne chemicals, and to allow the free flow of air; and
8. Adequate lighting must be provided.
D. Articles, tools, and products.
1. Clean towels, robes, or other linens must be used for each patron. Clean towels, robes, or other linens must be stored in a clean, predisinfected, and dry cabinet, drawer, or nonairtight covered container. Soiled towels, robes, or other linens must be stored in a container enclosed on all sides including the top, except if stored in a separate laundry room;
2. Whenever a haircloth is used, a clean towel or neck strip must be placed around the neck of the patron to prevent the haircloth from touching the skin;
3. Soiled implements must be removed from the tops of work stations immediately after use;
4. Any multiuse article, tool, or product that cannot be disinfected by full immersion as specified in subdivision B 2 of this section or cleaned according to manufacturer's recommendation, including natural hairbrushes or neck dusters, is prohibited from use;
5. Lotions, ointments, creams, and powders must be accurately labeled and kept in closed containers. A clean spatula, other clean tools, or clean disposable gloves must be used to remove bulk substances such as creams or ointments from jars. Sterile cotton or sponges must be used to apply creams, lotions, and powders. Cosmetic containers must be covered after each use;
6. For nail care, if a sanitary container is provided for a client, the sanitary container must be labeled and implements must be used solely for that specific client. Disinfection must be carried out in accordance with subdivisions B 1 and B 2 of this section;
7. No substance other than a sterile styptic powder or sterile liquid astringent approved for homeostasis and applied with a sterile single-use applicator must be used to check bleeding; and
8. Any disposable material making contact with blood or other body fluid must be double-bagged, labeled as a biohazard, and disposed of in a closed receptacle.
E. Chemical storage and emergency information.
1. Shops, salons, schools, and facilities must have in the immediate working area a binder with all Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provided by manufacturers for any chemical products used;
2. Shop, salons, schools, and facilities must have a blood spill clean-up kit in the work area that contains at minimum latex gloves, two 12-inch by 12-inch towels, one disposable trash bag, bleach, one empty spray bottle, and one mask with face shield or any Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) approved blood spill clean-up kit;
3. Flammable chemicals must be labeled and stored in a nonflammable storage cabinet or a properly ventilated room; and
4. Chemicals that could interact in a hazardous manner (e.g., oxidizers, catalysts, and solvents) must be labeled and separated in storage.
F. Client health guidelines.
1. All employees providing client services must cleanse their hands with a soap product prior to providing services to each client. Licensees shall require that clients for nail care services must cleanse their hands immediately prior to the requested nail care service;
2. An artificial nail must only be applied to a healthy natural nail;
3. A nail drill or motorized instrument must be used on the artificial nail surface only;
4. No shop, salon, school, or facility providing cosmetology or nail care services will have on the premises cosmetic products containing hazardous substances that have been banned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in cosmetic products;
5. No product will be used in a manner that is disapproved by the FDA; and
6. All regulated services must be performed in a facility that is in compliance with current local building and zoning codes.
G. In addition to any requirements set forth in this section, all licensees and temporary license holders must adhere to regulations and guidelines established by the Virginia Department of Health and the Occupational Safety and Health Compliance Division of the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry.
H. All shops, salons, schools, and facilities must immediately report the results of any inspection of the shop, salon, or school by the Virginia Department of Health as required by § 54.1-705 of the Code of Virginia.
I. All shops, salons, schools, and facilities must maintain a self-inspection form on file to be updated on an annual basis, and kept for five years, so that it may be requested and reviewed by the board at its discretion.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 36, Issue 9, eff. February 10, 2020; Volume 39, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2022; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
18VAC41-20-280. Grounds for license or certificate revocation, suspension, or probation; denial of application, renewal, or reinstatement; or imposition of a monetary penalty.
The board may, in considering the totality of the circumstances, refuse to issue, renew, or reinstate any license or certificate; impose a monetary penalty; place a license or certificate on probation with such terms and conditions and for such time as the board may designate; suspend a license or certificate for a stated period of time; or revoke a license or certificate issued under the provisions of Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and this chapter if it finds that the licensee, certificate holder, temporary license holder, or applicant:
1. Is incompetent or negligent in practice or unable, as a result of any mental or physical condition, as those terms are generally understood in the profession, to skillfully and safely (i) practice as a barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician or (ii) operate a shop, salon, or school;
2. Is convicted of fraud or deceit in the practice or teaching of barbering, master barbering, cosmetology, nail care, or waxing, fails to teach the board-approved curriculum as provided for in this chapter, or fails to comply with 18VAC41-20-210 H when making an assessment of credit hours awarded;
3. Attempts to obtain or has obtained, renewed, or reinstated a license, certificate, or temporary license by false or fraudulent representation;
4. Violates, induces others to violate, or cooperates with others in violating any of the provisions of this chapter or Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or any local ordinance or regulation governing standards of health and sanitation of the establishment in which any barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician may practice or offer to practice;
5. Offers, gives, or promises anything of value or benefit to any federal, state, or local employee for the purpose of influencing that employee to circumvent, in the performance of his duties, any federal, state, or local law, regulation, or ordinance governing barbering, master barbering, cosmetology, nail care, or waxing as defined in § 54.1-700 of the Code of Virginia;
6. Fails to respond to the board or any of its agents or provides false, misleading, or incomplete information to an inquiry by the board or any of its agents;
7. Fails or refuses to allow the board or any of its agents to inspect during reasonable hours any licensed shop, salon, or school for compliance with provisions of Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) or this chapter;
8. Fails to produce upon request or demand of the board or any of its agents any document, book, record, or copy thereof in a licensee's, certificate holder's, temporary license holder's, applicant's, or responsible management's possession or maintained in accordance with this chapter;
9. Fails to notify the board of a change of name or address in writing within 30 days of the change for each and every license, certificate, or temporary license;
10. Makes any misrepresentation or publishes or causes to be published any advertisement that is false, deceptive, or misleading;
11. Fails to notify the board in writing within 30 days of a final action or disciplinary action taken against any license, registration, certificate, or temporary license in any jurisdiction by a local, state or national regulatory body;
12. Has been convicted or found guilty, regardless of the manner of adjudication in Virginia or any other jurisdiction of the United States, of any felony, there being no appeal pending therefrom or the time for appeal having elapsed. Review of convictions shall be subject to the requirements of § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia;
13. Fails to inform the board in writing within 30 days of pleading guilty or nolo contendere or being convicted or found guilty regardless of adjudication of any convictions as stated in subdivision 12 of this section;
14. Allows, as responsible management of a shop or salon, a person who has not obtained a license or a temporary license to practice as a barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician unless the person is duly enrolled as a registered apprentice;
15. Allows, as responsible management of a school, a person who has not obtained an instructor certificate or a student instructor temporary license to practice as a barber, master barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, or wax technician instructor;
16. Fails to take sufficient measures to prevent transmission of communicable or infectious diseases or fails to comply with sanitary requirements provided for in this chapter or any local, state, or federal law or regulation governing the standards of health and sanitation for the practices of barbering, master barbering, cosmetology, nail care, or waxing, or the operation of barbershops, cosmetology salons, nail salons, or waxing salons; or
17. Fails to comply with all procedures established by the board and the testing service with regard to conduct at any board examination.
Statutory Authority
§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 26, eff. November 1, 2013; Volume 33, Issue 9, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2019; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.
Forms (18VAC41-20)
Nail Technician Instructor Examination and License Application, A450-1206_07EXLIC-v23 (rev. 12/2025)
Wax Technician Instructor Examination and License Application, A450-1214_15EXLIC-v22 (rev. 12/2025)
Cosmetology Instructor Examination and License Application, A450-1201_04EXLIC-v25 (rev. 12/2025)
Temporary Permit Application, A450-1213TEMP-v3 (rev. 12/2021)
License by Endorsement Application, A450-1213END-v21 (rev. 12/2025)
Individuals – Reinstatement Application, A450-1213REI-v16 (rev. 8/2025)
Salon, Shop, Spa, and Parlor License and Reinstatement Application, A450-1213BUS-v20 (rev. 12/2025)
Salon, Shop, and Spa Self-Inspection Form, A450-1213_SSS_INSP-v2 (eff. 5/2016)
Instructor Certification Application, A450-1213INST-v22 (rev. 12/2025)
Student Instructor Temporary Permit Application, A450-1213ST_TEMP-v5 (rev. 12/2025)
School License Application, A450-1213SCHL-v24 (rev. 12/2025)
School Reinstatement Application, A450-1213SCHL-REIN-v13 (rev. 12/2025)
School Self-Inspection Form, A450-1213_SCH_INSP-v5 (eff. 1/2022)
Licensure Fee Notice, A450-1213FEE-v13 (rev. 8/2025)
Change of Responsible Management Application, A450-1213CRM-v6 (rev. 12/2021)
Training Substitution Form, A450-1213TR_SUB-v1 (rev. 10/2021)
Training Verification Form, A450-1213TR-vs1 (eff. 5/2022)
Experience Verification Form, A450-1213EXP-v2 (eff. 7/2022)
Barber-Cosmetology Universal License Application, A450-1213ULR-v3 (rev. 8/2025)
Change of Instructor Application, A450-1213SCI-v1 (eff. 12/2025)