Thinking about diving into the beauty industry? You’re not alone. More people than ever are discovering that cosmetology offers a creative, flexible career path with real job security. But if you’re just starting to explore this field, you probably have one burning question: “how old do you have to be for cosmetology school?”. Let us break down everything you need to know about age requirements for cosmetology school in Illinois, plus some insights we’ve gathered along the years about what it’s really like to start this journey at different stages of life.
The Bottom Line on Age Requirements
Cosmetology school age requirements in Illinois are quite simple. You can enroll if you are at least 16 years old. You will also need a high school diploma or GED. Makes sense when you think about it, as you will be learning about the science behind hair and skincare, plus the business side of running a salon or working as an independent stylist.
Who Goes to Cosmetology School?
Cosmetology & Spa Academy is a state-accredited school with more than 30 years of experience in the beauty education system. Throughout the years, we’ve noticed that students typically fall into three main groups, and honestly, each brings something different to the table:
The Fresh-Out-of-High-School Crowd (16-18 years old)
These students are usually bursting with energy and aren’t afraid to try new techniques. They pick up on trends quickly and often have this fearless approach to learning that’s really refreshing.
Since they don’t have mortgages or kids to worry about yet, they can really throw themselves into their studies.
The Career Switchers (mid-20s to mid-40s)
This group fascinates us. They’re coming from all kinds of backgrounds – retail, office work, healthcare, you name it. They bring skills you might not expect, like knowing how to handle difficult customers or understanding what makes a business tick. Many of them have been thinking about this change for years before they finally take the leap.
The “Why Not Now?” Students (45 and older)
Don’t let anyone tell you it’s too late to start something new. We’ve seen students in their 50s, 60s, and beyond absolutely crush it in cosmetology school. They often become incredible colorists and stylists because they really get the importance of building relationships with clients.
What You Actually Need to Get Licensed in Illinois
Now we know what age you can start cosmetology school. But what else is required to get the license? In Illinois, you’ll need to complete a cosmetology program that includes 1,500 hours of education at an approved, accredited school.
After that, you’ll need to take both written and hands-on exams through the IDFPR. The whole process isn’t complicated, but it does take commitment. Most full-time programs run about 9 to 12 months, while part-time programs can take up to two years.
The whole process isn’t complicated, but it does take commitment. Most full-time programs run about 9-12 months, while part-time programs can take up to two years.
The Real Talk About Starting at Different Ages
Starting Young Has Its Perks
When you’re 16 it feels like the world is yours. And that is true. You’re just starting out and you feel fully energized to invest your full efforts and time towards learning. You’ve just finished high school, so you’re still in that studying mindset and you’ve got decades ahead of you to build your career.
The Career-Change Advantage
If you’re switching careers in your 20s or 30s, you’re bringing life experience that’s incredibly valuable. Maybe you worked in customer service and you already know how to handle complaints gracefully.
Or perhaps you manage people and understand what motivates a team. The great news is that these skills transfer beautifully to the beauty industry.
Later-in-Life Learning
Although some may find it daunting, starting cosmetology school later in life comes with unique advantages. Mature students often have clearer goals, better time management skills and a deeper understanding of what business success entails.
They tend to build incredibly loyal client bases because they know how to form connections and maintain them. These people have already had their share of work-related obstacles, so they’re genuinely passionate about this new journey.
Picking the Right School
At the end of the day, no matter what age you are, choosing your cosmetology school carefully is important. Before making your decision, here’s what to look for:
1 – Make sure the school is recognized and accredited by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. This is crucial, as it will determine whether you can obtain your license later on.
2 – Check out the school’s facility when you book a tour. Are they using current equipment? Do the classrooms look well-maintained?
3 – Ask about their job placement rates and what kind of career support they offer. Some schools have great relationships with local salons and can help you land your first job.
4 – Don’t forget to ask about financial aid options. Many schools offer payment plans and you might even qualify for grants or cosmetology scholarships you didn’t know existed.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re 16 or 50, what matters most is that you’re genuinely interested in this work. The beauty industry rewards creativity, dedication, and the ability to make people feel confident and beautiful. Those qualities don’t have an expiration date.
If you’ve been thinking about cosmetology school, don’t let age hold you back. Illinois has excellent programs, and the state licensing requirements are designed to ensure you get quality training regardless of when you start.
The best time to begin? When you’re ready to commit to learning something new and building a career that lets you be creative while helping others feel their best. That motivation matters way more than the number on your birth certificate.
