To transfer to Kentucky as an out-of-state applicant using endorsement credentials from another state, please review all requirements carefully before starting your application.
Minimum education requirements for the following programs:
Cosmetology - 1500 hours and a 12th grade equivalence.
Esthetics - 750 hours and a 12th grade equivalence.
Nail Technician - 450 hours and a 12th grade equivalence.
Shampoo Styling – 300 hours and a 12th grade equivalence.
Instructor - 1 year of individual licensure, 750 hours, and 12th grade equivalence.
Required Certification & Licensing Documents:
- Certification(s) from every state where you obtained your education and obtain a license will be required.
- The certification must be ACTIVE
- The certification must be sent directly from the transferring state agency to kbc@ky.gov digitally
- Upload a photo of your current ACTIVE professional license
Photo Requirements
- Use a photo taken within the last 6 months.
- Stand facing forward.
- Capture the shoulders up.
- Use a solid white or light blue background
- DO NOT USE AI-GENERATED IMAGES or filters as these are not permitted.
- Please note what is NOT accepted. Photos that include your spouse, friends, family or pets, car-selfies, or photos that are too dark/bright/blurry that make features indistinguishable.
Government Photo ID Requirements
- KAR requires a current Driver's License, State ID, Passport ID or Military ID that has been recorded in the database.
- Expired Driver's License, State ID, Passport ID or Military ID will not be accepted.
- Please upload a clear digital image of the government-issued ID. Photocopies will not be accepted.
Education Verification (if transferring hours):
- A Certification of educational hours must be on file from the state you're transferring from
- Must be sent directly from the state agency to kbc@ky.gov digitally prior to applying online
Work History/Experience in the industry (if applicable):
- If you have a license 2+ years in the industry you may upload:
- Upload tax documents (last 2 years), such as:
- 1099 forms or 1040 forms
Criminal Background (if applicable) If you have a felony, be prepared to upload:
- Judgment of sentence
- Letter from probation or parole officer in good standing
- Personal statement explaining the events leading to the conviction
Application Requirements:
- List every state where you received education and license in your field (outside Kentucky)
- Upload (optional but helpful) Exam scores
Fees & Additional Conditions:
- Endorsement fees are non-refundable
- Additional education and Examinations maybe required, KBC administrative staff will not be able to disclose this information without reviewing your entire application submission
Important Notes:
Your application will not be processed until ALL certifications are received. Certifications must come directly from the state agency.