Ohio cosmetology and barbering professionals should be aware of several regulatory updates that took effect in 2026. Whether you are a cosmetologist, barber, esthetician, manicurist, instructor, salon owner, or independent contractor, understanding these changes can help you stay compliant and ready for license renewal.
Continuing Education Requirements
Ohio licensees who are subject to continuing education requirements generally must complete 4 hours of continuing education during the applicable renewal period:
- 1 hour of Ohio Laws and Rules
- 3 hours of Safety and Infection Control
Continuing education must be completed within the required renewal period. Course completion is reported to CE Broker, the Board’s CE tracking system. If your hours are not reported as completed in your CE Broker account, you will not be able to finish your online renewal in eLicense. Licensees should keep their certificates of completion in case of a Board audit, and should confirm the requirements that apply to their own license.
Upcoming deadlines:
- Cosmetology and branch of cosmetology licensees: CE must be completed by January 15, 2027, and licenses must be renewed by January 31, 2027 to avoid a late fee.
- Barbers: The 2024–2026 cycle has closed. CE for the next cycle must be completed by August 15, 2028.
Exemptions: You may not need to complete CE hours if any of the following applies to you. Renewal fees are still required in every case.
- First-time licensees: You are exempt for your first renewal period after receiving your first Ohio license. Instructor licenses are not eligible for this exemption.
- Age 65 or older: You are exempt if you reach age 65 before the Board’s cutoff date for your renewal cycle.
- 30 or more years of licensure: You are exempt if you have held an Ohio Board license for 30 or more years as of the Board’s cutoff date.
What’s New for 2026?
Several Ohio rules affecting cosmetology and barbering establishments and professionals were updated effective January 1, 2026. Important areas include:
Infection Control: Proper cleaning must occur before disinfection. Implements contaminated with hair, debris, oils, or other material must be thoroughly cleaned so that the disinfectant can work effectively.
Draping and Client Protection: Updated requirements address the use of capes, neck strips, and towels to help prevent cross-contamination between clients.
Laundry and Linens: Cloth towels, robes, and similar items must be washed in a washing machine with laundry detergent used according to the manufacturer’s directions, and dried before use. A hamper or receptacle must be provided for soiled towels and linens.
Salon and Barbershop Operations: Updated rules address the services offered within licensed establishments, including services regulated by other Ohio licensing authorities.
Independent Contractors: Professionals working as independent contractors should ensure they hold the appropriate licenses. They should also understand the responsibilities of both the individual practitioner and the licensed establishment.
Residential Salons and Barbershops: Ohio maintains specific requirements for salons and barbershops operated from residential properties, including requirements for separating professional and residential spaces.
Why These Changes Matter
Continuing education is more than a renewal requirement. Regulations, safety standards, services, and business practices continue to evolve, and licensed professionals are responsible for keeping up with the rules that govern their work.
Even experienced professionals can be affected when a familiar procedure is addressed by a new or revised rule.
Stay Informed. Stay Compliant. Stay Licensed.
Board Prep Online is committed to helping beauty professionals stay current through convenient online education.
Our Ohio continuing education curriculum addresses the state’s required areas of study:
1 Hour — Ohio Laws and Rules
3 Hours — Safety and Infection Control
Understanding today’s requirements can help protect your license, your business, and the clients you serve.
Visit BoardPrepOnline.com to learn more about continuing education for Ohio cosmetology and barbering professionals.
Licensing and continuing education requirements are subject to change. Licensees should verify current requirements with the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board.
