Eyelash Extension Certification Requirements In California

If you want to become a lash artist in California, you must follow the rules from the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.

This guide explains what you need to legally apply eyelash extensions in the state.

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1. Do You Need a License to Do Eyelash Extensions in California?

Yes. In California, it is not legal to do eyelash extensions without a license. The law requires that you have one of these licenses:

• Cosmetologist license
• Esthetician license
• Barber license (rare for lash work, but still legal)

You cannot do eyelash extensions with only a training certificate or online course unless you already have one of the licenses listed above.

2. What is the Role of Certification?

Certification is not the same as a license. A certification course helps you learn how to apply lashes. It is for training only. It does not make you legal to work on clients unless you also have a California license.

Many lash brands and private schools offer these trainings, but the State of California does not approve or recognize any lash certification program directly.

So certification = training
License = legal permission to work

3. How to Get a License for Lash Extensions?

If you are starting from zero, follow these steps:

Step 1: Pick a License Type

Most lash artists choose:

• Esthetician License – Focuses on skin and lashes
• Cosmetologist License – Covers hair, nails, skin, and lashes

Step 2: Go to a Licensed School

You must attend a licensed school in California. These are approved by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.

• Esthetician program = 600 hours
• Cosmetologist program = 1000 hours

Step 3: Pass the Exams

After school, you must pass:

• Written exam
• Practical exam (hands-on)

Once you pass both, you will get your state license.

4. What If I am Already Licensed in Another State?

You can apply for reciprocity, but California does not accept all out-of-state licenses. You may need to re-take exams or complete extra hours, depending on your background.

5. Can I Do Eyelash Extensions With Just an Online Course?

No. Online or in-person certification alone is not enough in California. You must also have a license.

If you are caught working without a license, you can get:

• Fined by the state
• Reported by clients or salons
• Banned from working legally in the future

6. How to Verify or Apply for a License?

Visit the official site:

👉 California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology – www.barbercosmo.ca.gov

You can:

• Search for approved schools
• Apply for exams
• Renew your license
• File complaints or check laws

7. Why You Should Still Take a Lash Certification Class

Even though it’s not required by the state, lash certification helps you:

• Learn safe lash application
• Understand sanitation rules
• Get insurance
• Build client trust
• Practice hands-on techniques

8. Final Advice for New Lash Artists in California

• Always get licensed first
• Pick an esthetician or cosmetologist path
• Only train with trusted lash brands or teachers
• Do not risk working illegally — fines are expensive
• Stay updated on state rules from the official site

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FAQs

Can I get a lash license in California only?

No. There is no separate “lash license”. You need an esthetician or cosmetologist license.

Can I do lashes at home if I’m licensed?

Yes, but you must meet city/county health rules and have a business license.

How much does lash school cost?

It depends, but esthetician school can cost $4,000–$10,000 in California.

Do you find this blog post helpful? Have you learned something? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. Don’t forget to share this blog with your lash friend.

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