June 2026

Your cosmetology license is not for life. To ensure that your skills remain sharp and your sanitization knowledge stays up to date, all states require cosmetology licenses to be periodically renewed. The process varies slightly between states, so it’s important to understand the steps before you get started. Here, Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes reviews cosmetology license renewal in Arizona, Colorado, and Utah, to help our graduates stay successful.Key TakeawaysPeriodic cosmetology license renewals are required in every state. Practicing with an expired license is a criminal offense and grounds for license suspension.A renewed license allows you to practice legally while also demonstrating to clients that you are trustworthy and committed to best practices.Each state has its own requirements for license renewal. It is essential to understand the renewal dates and process in your state to prevent serious infractions.Renewal BasicsCosmetology services are surprisingly delicate. When clients put their health and appearance in your hands, they need to trust in your abilities. That is why all states require licenses to be renewed to stay active. A renewed license is proof that your skills and protocols match the current standard. The basic requirements for renewal are consistent across the country, and include:Renewal cycle: Though the required renewal date differs between states, they all have a set renewal cycle followed by a brief grace period.License suspensions: Failure to renew your license results in a suspension. Suspended licenses cannot be used to legally practice cosmetology.Renewal fees: Most states have a small renewal fee, which helps cover the cost of updating and administering the license renewal exams.License renewal is also an opportunity to update your name or address. If either has changed for any reason, then now is the time to apply that change and ensure your license remains accurate.Cosmetology License Renewal by StateWhile the basics of license renewal are the same across the country, each state has its own specific process. Understanding the requirements for your state is essential to plan appropriately.Arizona RenewalIn Arizona, cosmetology licenses expire every two years on your birthday. License renewals open 60 days before the expiration date. Renewals are handled through the online Licensing Portal with a fee of $60. Submitted applications must be reviewed by the Board, which may take up to four weeks.If your license has been expired for more than five years, it is considered suspended. At this time, renewal is no longer available. You must instead retake your exams to reapply for licensure.Colorado RenewalIn Colorado, cosmetology licenses expire annually on April 30. If you miss the renewal date, then there is a 60-day grace period when you can legally work while you apply for reinstatement.If your license has been expired for more than two years, then you must complete at least 16 hours of continuing education (CE) before you can apply for reinstatement. If your license has been expired for more than five years, then you must complete 24 hours of CE.Utah RenewalIn Utah, cosmetology licenses expire on September 30 of odd years. A renewal notice will be mailed to your address 60 days prior to expiration. Renewals are handled online or in-person with a fee of $52.Utah has no grace period, and practicing with an expired license is grounds for suspension. Renewing an expired license does not require retaking the licensing exam, however, so long as your license has been expired for less than five years.Earn Your Cosmetology License at Inspire Greatness Aveda InstitutesLicensing regulations might seem overwhelming at first glance. At Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes, however, students are equipped to navigate the intricacies of cosmetology license renewals with confidence. We also provide financial aid options for those who qualify. Contact us today to learn more about our programs in Denver, CO; Provo, UT; and Phoenix, Tucson, and Avondale, AZ.Cosmetology License Renewal FAQsDo I need to complete continuing education to renew my license?Continuing education is not required for standard license renewals in Arizona, Colorado, or Utah, but is recommended. CE is required to renew expired licenses in Colorado.What if my license is expired?Some states offer a grace period when you can continue working while you have your license reinstated. After the grace period, working with an expired license is a criminal offense. You must pause work until your license can be reinstated.Can I renew my license if I moved states?Most states have a process for transferring licenses between states. Afterward, you will renew your license based on your new state’s protocol.

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