State Board of Cosmetology
The California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC) regulates licensing, sanitation, and safety standards for every salon professional in the state. These rules protect both you and your clients. Understanding and following them is a condition of your employment and your license.
Your License
License Types and Training Hours
| License | Required Training Hours |
|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | 1,000 hours |
| Barber | 1,000 hours |
| Esthetician | 600 hours |
| Manicurist | 400 hours |
Renewal
- All licenses must be renewed every two years through the Board's online BreEZe system.
- California does not require continuing education (CE) hours for renewal - but you must complete the renewal application and pay the fee before your expiration date.
- It is your responsibility to track your expiration date and renew on time.
Display Requirement
- Your individual license must be displayed at your workstation at all times while you are working.
- A photocopy or printed verification from BreEZe is acceptable if your original is being processed for renewal.
Consequences of an Expired License
- You cannot legally perform any services with an expired license - not even one day past expiration.
- Working on an expired license exposes you and the salon to fines of up to $1,000 per violation.
- If your license expires, notify your manager immediately. You will be taken off the schedule until the license is current.
Sanitation & Disinfection Rules
Proper sanitation and disinfection are required by law after every client. The Board checks these procedures during inspections. Violations carry fines of $100–$500 per occurrence.
Non-Electrical Tools (shears, combs, clips, nippers, etc.)
- Clean - Remove all visible debris by washing with soap and water.
- Dry - Dry the tool completely.
- Disinfect - Fully immerse the tool in an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant for the contact time listed on the label.
- Store - Store disinfected tools in a clean, closed container labeled "Clean" or "Disinfected."
Electrical Tools (clippers, trimmers, etc.)
- Clean - Remove all visible debris from blades and surfaces.
- Disinfect - Spray or wipe all surfaces with an EPA-registered disinfectant. Allow full contact time per the product label.
- Store - Store in a clean area away from used tools.
Disinfectant Container Requirements
- Containers holding disinfectant solution must be labeled with the product name and contact time.
- Solution must be changed according to the manufacturer's instructions or immediately if visibly contaminated.
- Never "top off" old solution - always replace it entirely.
Linens and Capes
- A fresh, clean towel, cape, or neck strip must be used for each client.
- Used linens go directly into a closed container labeled "Soiled."
- Linens must be laundered with detergent and hot water before reuse.
Scope of Practice
Your license determines exactly which services you may legally perform. Performing services outside your scope of practice is a violation that can result in fines and disciplinary action against your license.
| Service | Cosmetologist | Barber | Esthetician | Manicurist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haircut / style | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Hair color / chemical services | Yes | No | No | No |
| Straight razor shave | No | Yes | No | No |
| Facials / skin care | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Waxing | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Lash extensions | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Manicure / pedicure | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Nail enhancements (acrylic, gel) | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Microneedling | No | No | No | No |
| Laser / IPL treatments | No | No | No | No |
| Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) | No | No | No | No |
| Botox / injectables | No | No | No | No |
Important: Microneedling, lasers, IPL, EMS, and injectables are medical procedures that require medical licensure. No cosmetology license of any type authorizes these services.
Chemical Safety
- Always wear appropriate PPE (gloves, aprons, eye protection) when mixing or applying chemical products.
- Work in a well-ventilated area, especially when using nail products, keratin treatments, or any product containing volatile chemicals.
- Never mix chemicals unless the product instructions specifically direct you to do so.
- If you experience headache, dizziness, eye irritation, or difficulty breathing, stop the service immediately, ventilate the area, and notify your manager.
For full chemical safety procedures, see the Workplace Safety page.
What Happens During an Inspection
The Board conducts unannounced inspections - you will not receive advance notice.
What the Inspector Will Check
- That the salon's establishment license is displayed.
- That every working professional's individual license is displayed at their station.
- That all licenses are current (not expired).
- Sanitation and disinfection procedures and container labeling.
- Proper storage of clean vs. soiled tools and linens.
- Chemical storage and ventilation.
- Overall cleanliness and safety of the establishment.
What You Should Do
- Be courteous and cooperative. Answer the inspector's questions honestly.
- Notify your manager immediately when an inspector arrives.
- Do not interrupt your service - the inspector will observe and ask questions as needed.
- If the inspector asks to see your license, show it at your station where it should already be displayed.
Common Violations & Fines
| Violation | Fine Range |
|---|---|
| Practicing without a valid license | Up to $1,000 |
| Failure to display license | $50–$200 |
| Improper tool disinfection | $100–$500 |
| Unsanitary conditions | $100–$500 |
| No establishment license displayed | $100–$500 |
| Performing services outside scope of practice | $250–$1,000+ |
| Failure to cooperate with inspector | $100–$500 |
Fines are assessed per violation and can add up quickly during a single inspection. Repeat violations carry higher penalties.
Resources
- BreEZe License Lookup & Renewal: www.breeze.ca.gov
- Board of Barbering and Cosmetology: www.barbercosmo.ca.gov
- Board Phone: (800) 952-5210
If you have questions about your license, scope of practice, or Board rules, talk to your manager.