DOL Cosmetology and Tattoo customer service hours are changing so we can provide better service to you. We have increased the number of staff that will be available for phone calls and emails. Our Licensing team will be able to take calls during these times:
You WILL be able to reach a Customer Service Specialist during these hours
⦁ Monday: 9:00am to 4:00pm
⦁ Tuesday: 9:00am to 12:30pm
⦁ Wednesday: 9:00am to 12:30pm
⦁ Thursday: 9:00am to 12:30pm
During the hours we are not on the phone, we will be processing licensing documentation to ensure timely completion of paperwork.
If you need immediate assistance during the hours we are processing work, please visit our website. Most of the information you need can be found here at https://www.dol.wa.gov/business/cosmetology/
Be prepared: Before you apply, read the instructions and watch our training videos. This will help you complete your application and speed up processing times. Training videos and additional information can be found here: https://www.dol.wa.gov/business/accountaccess.html
FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions that we have encountered the last couple of months. In an effort to help speed up processing, we provided in depth answers to help our licensees navigate things such as renewals, reciprocity, and printing out licenses.
Q: I’ve renewed/applied for my new license, how do I get a copy of it?
You now have the ability to generate your license online. Once you finish your renewal/new application, you’ll have 3 options to get your license:
- Self-print: Electronic document downloaded within minutes
*Important! If this is the first time you’ve accessed the system, you must link your license before you can generate the license document.
- Email: Electronic document sent by email, received the next day
- Mail: Paper document sent by mail, usually received within 2 – 4 weeks
- There is a $5 fee for each paper license
Step by Step Guide:
Navigate to a Professional or Business License
- Click Professional Licenses or Business Licenses link from the top menu of the Professional and Business Licensing Home page.
- Click the link for the license you want to print.
- Go to Select Delivery Method.
Select Delivery Method
- Click Generate License from the right-hand menu on the license detail page.
- Selection may appear in a different place within the menu.
- Select the delivery method for the license from the dropdown and click Submit.
- Self-print: Go to Self-Print License
- Email: Click Ok at the pop-up. You’ll receive the license document the next day as a PDF attachment on an email sent to the email address on file.
- Mail: Go to Printed License
Q: How can I renew my license?
You can renew online at https://www.dol.wa.gov/business/cosmetology/get_license.html
If you want to renew by mail, please submit the appropriate fees along with a completed Cosmetology, Hair Design, Barber, Manicurist, Esthetician, or Master Esthetician License, Renewal, Reinstatement, or Reciprocity Application. Please check the “Renewal,” “Late renewal,” or “Reinstatement” box as needed.
Mail your completed application, any supporting documents, and a check or money order (payable to Department of Licensing) for the appropriate fees to the address below.
Cosmetology Program
Department of Licensing
PO Box 3856
Seattle, WA 98124-3856
Q: Am I going to be charged for late renewal?
As of December 31st, 2020 we are no longer waiving late fees. If you are renewing late, you will be charged the appropriate fees.
Q: How can I renew my cancelled license?
Unfortunately you cannot renew a cancelled license. If your license is in a cancellation status, you need to apply for reinstatement and take the written and practical exams. To apply for reinstatement, please visit https://www.dol.wa.gov/business/cosmetology/get_license.html. Please watch the online videos and tutorials to create an account and start the process.
Q: I am coming from a different state/country/jurisdiction and want to transfer my license.
What is the procedure?
You can apply online at https://www.dol.wa.gov/business/cosmetology/get_license.html
You will need to provide proof of an active license in good standing in another jurisdiction and proof you have passed that jurisdiction’s approved exam(s).
If you want to apply by mail, please follow the instructions below to apply for reciprocity application:
- Complete a Cosmetology, Hair Design, Barber, Manicurist, Esthetician, Master Esthetician, or Instructor License Renewal, Reinstatement, Out-of-Country, or Reciprocity Application
- Provide proof of an active license in good standing in another jurisdiction and proof you have passed that jurisdiction’s approved exam(s).
- Mail your completed application, any supporting documents, and a check or money order (payable to Department of Licensing) for the appropriate fees to the address below:
Cosmetology Program
Department of Licensing
PO Box 3856
Seattle, WA 98124-3856
Q: How can I set up an account to manage my licenses?
Please access the following link to watch the videos and instructions on how to set up your account:
https://www.dol.wa.gov/business/accountaccess.html
Q: How do I stay up to date on changes and new information from DOL?
Sign up for DOL’s LISTSERV, all communication is sent here first.Visit https://www.dol.wa.gov/business/cosmetology/whatsnew.html to get started!
