The new online Appearance Enhancement and Barber Licensing System is now live. You can now apply for a new license and schedule your exams online. Before filing a renewal, scheduling an exam on an existing application or making a change to an existing license, you will need to claim your license. Step-by-step guides are available to help you through the process of claiming your license or application and completing transactions online.

An Appearance Enhancement Business License allows an individual to operate an Appearance Enhancement establishment that provides any or all of the services included in the practice of cosmetology, esthetics, nail specialty, natural hair styling and/or waxing. It is the responsibility of licensees to understand the Appearance Enhancement License Law.

Term of licensure is four years.

All beauty treatment specialists as well as all spas and salons must be licensed to legally operate within New York State. The state has five different designations for beauty specialists, listed below. Click on the occupation that may be of interest to you. Follow the links to learn about licensing and exam information. It is the responsibility of licensees to understand the Appearance Enhancement Law.