Opening a Cosmetology or Barbering School in California
From cosmetology and barbering to esthetics and nail technology, we help beauty schools meet California’s requirements and open their doors with confidence.
A Growing Industry With Real Demand
560,000+
Licensed Professionals in CA
80,000+
U.S. Job Openings Annually
7%
Projected Employment Growth
Sources: BBC, BLS
The Approval Process
The approvals required to open a school in California depend on your program type and how your school is structured. Cosmetology and barbering schools require approval from the BPPE (Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education) and the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC).
01 · Primary
BPPE Approval
The BPPE oversees most non-exempt private postsecondary institutions in California, including cosmetology and barbering schools.
02 · Secondary
BBC Approval
In addition to the BPPE, cosmetology and barbering schools must also answer to a secondary state agency, the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. The BPPE will issue a Conditional Approval that does not convert to full approval until your BBC license is secured.
Which BBC License Fits Your School?
The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC) regulates six license categories, but only three can be approved as their own standalone school: Cosmetology, Barbering, and Electrology. The other three (Esthetics, Manicuring, and Hairstyling) are offered as programs within a Cosmetology or Barbering school.
Cosmetology
California’s broadest BBC license which includes hair, skin, and nails.
| Program | Required hours |
|---|---|
| Cosmetology | 1,000 hours |
| Esthetics | 600 hours |
| Manicuring | 400 hours |
| Hairstyling | 600 hours |
Barbering
California’s license for haircutting, shaving, and men’s grooming services.
| Program | Required hours |
|---|---|
| Barbering | 1,000 hours |
| Hairstyling | 600 hours |
Electrology
California’s license for permanent hair removal using an electric current.
| Program | Required hours |
|---|---|
| Electrology | 600 hours |
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of schools does the BBC approve?
The BBC only approves standalone schools for Barbering, Cosmetology, and Electrology. Programs for speciality licenses (Esthetics, Manicuring, and Hairstyling) must be offered within a Cosmetology or Barbering school as appropriate.
Can I open a school that only teaches esthetics, manicuring, or hairstyling?
No. The BBC does not approve schools built around just one of these three programs. If you want to teach esthetics, manicuring, or hairstyling, it needs to happen inside an approved Cosmetology or Barbering school, as appropriate, that meets the Board’s full space, equipment, and curriculum requirements, not as a standalone institution.
Do I need both BPPE and BBC approval to open a Cosmetology or Barbering school?
Yes. You’ll need BPPE approval to legally operate as a school, plus BBC approval of your curriculum so your graduates can sit for their licensing exam. The BPPE will issue a Conditional Approval that doesn’t convert to full approval until your BBC approval is secured.
Can I open a school before receiving BBC approval?
No. Enrolling students before your school is approved is a costly mistake. Any hours a student completes before approval won’t count toward their license, which can mean refunding tuition and losing trust with your first cohort. Approval is official once the BBC issues a letter of approval and school code number.
How many training hours does my program need?
It depends on the license. Cosmetology and Barbering require 1,000 hours each. Esthetics, Electrology, and Hairstyling require 600 hours. Manicuring requires 400 hours. These hours were reduced significantly in 2022, so if you’re working from older information, it’s worth double-checking against current requirements.
How long does it take to get my school approved?
We typically prepare applications within one month. After submission, BPPE review timelines can take up to a year or more due to application backlog, and BBC curriculum approval timelines vary depending on your program type. A free consultation with our team can help you build a realistic timeline for your specific program.