Becoming a licensed cosmetologist in Tennessee opens doors to a rewarding career in beauty, encompassing hair, nails, and crucially, skin care and makeup artistry. If you’re exploring “what program is skin care and makeup Tennessee” offers to kickstart your journey in the beauty industry, understanding the cosmetology license is your first step. This guide outlines what you need to know about cosmetology programs in Tennessee, with a spotlight on the essential skin care and makeup components of this comprehensive license.
What Does a Cosmetologist Do in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, a licensed cosmetologist is authorized to provide a wide array of beauty services for compensation. While many think primarily of hair services like cutting, styling, and coloring, the scope of cosmetology is much broader. It explicitly includes skin care services such as facials, makeup application, and hair removal (tweezing, waxing, and depilatories). Cosmetologists are also permitted to perform manicures and pedicures, and even shave clients using a safety razor since July 1, 2015. This broad definition ensures that professionals trained in cosmetology programs in Tennessee are well-versed in both hair and skin care, making them versatile beauty experts.
Licensing Requirements to Practice Cosmetology
To become a cosmetologist in Tennessee, certain requirements must be met before you can practice professionally. Applicants must be at least sixteen years old and have completed two years of high school or achieved a minimum score of 38% on the GED® or HiSET® examination. These foundational requirements ensure a basic level of education before entering cosmetology training.
Educational Requirements: Your Cosmetology Program
The cornerstone of obtaining a cosmetology license in Tennessee is completing a comprehensive program of study. Specifically, the state mandates the completion of 1,500 hours of practice and theory at a licensed cosmetology school. These hours are designed to cover all aspects of cosmetology, including significant training in skin care and makeup techniques, alongside hair care, nail care, and sanitation practices. When researching “what program is skin care and makeup Tennessee” provides, ensure the cosmetology school you choose is licensed and its curriculum meets this 1,500-hour requirement to adequately prepare you for the licensing exams and your future career.
Examination and Renewal of Your Cosmetology License
After completing your educational hours, you must pass both written and practical examinations to gain your cosmetology license. These exams are administered by PSI Services LLC. Detailed information regarding application, registration, examination content, and fees can be found on the PSI website or by contacting them directly.
Once licensed, cosmetologists in Tennessee need to renew their licenses periodically. Renewal notices are sent out roughly a month before the license expiration date. To renew, licensees must submit the renewal notice and the required fee by the expiration date.
Application and Fees for Cosmetology Licensing
To begin your journey to becoming a licensed cosmetologist with expertise in skin care and makeup in Tennessee, you’ll need to apply for an initial license. Applications are submitted through the CORE system. The initial application fee is $60. License renewals are also processed online through CORE, with a renewal fee of $60. Late renewals incur an additional $25 fee. Licenses expired for over three years become invalid and require reinstatement exams, emphasizing the importance of timely renewals to maintain your professional standing as a cosmetologist in Tennessee.
For initial applications, please visit www.core.tn.gov.
License renewals can be done here.
For examination details, visit PSI online at https://test-takers.psiexams.com/ or call 800-733-9267.
By understanding these requirements and focusing on comprehensive cosmetology programs, you can confidently pursue a successful career in skin care, makeup, and the broader beauty industry in Tennessee.
