Oh Snap! It's Illinois Cosmetology License Renewal Time Again: Don't Panic, It's Not Brain Surgery (Unless You're REALLY Good at It)
Hey there, cosmetology crusaders! Feeling that familiar knot in your stomach as you realize your Illinois license is about to expire faster than a client's patience with a drying time estimate? Don't worry, renewing your license is easier than blending the perfect highlight for a indecisive client (you know the ones, "bronde... but make it ashy... but with some warmth... oh and maybe some chunky balayage?").
Step 1: Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself (Your License)
First things first, make sure it's actually renewal year (Illinois cosmetology licenses expire every two years, on September 30th of odd-numbered years). You can find your expiration date on your license, or by using the handy IDFPR License Lookup [Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation License Lookup].
Step 2: Continuing Education: Because Even Beyonce Needs a Refresh
Remember all that amazing knowledge you crammed in cosmetology school? Well, Illinois wants you to keep those skills sharp! You'll need to complete 14 hours of continuing education (CE) credits to renew your license. The good news? There are tons of CE options out there, from in-person classes to online courses. Just make sure the provider is approved by the state of Illinois so your hard-earned CE hours actually count.
QuickTip: Revisit this post tomorrow — it’ll feel new.
Step 3: Renew Online: No Need to Channel Your Inner Usain Bolt
Gone are the days of waiting in line with a stack of paperwork! Illinois has embraced the digital age, allowing you to renew your license online. Head over to the IDFPR website [Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation Cosmetology], click on that sweet "License Renewals" button, and follow the easy instructions. You can even pay the renewal fee with a credit card – because who carries cash anymore?
Bonus Tip: Don't Be That Person: Renew Early!
While you can technically renew up until the expiration date, avoid the last-minute scramble and renew a few months in advance. This gives you some wiggle room in case of any unexpected glitches (technical difficulties or that sudden urge to dye your hair a wild new color – we've all been there!).
Tip: Review key points when done.
 |
| How To Renew Cosmetology License In Illinois |
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
 |
How to find a CE provider approved by Illinois?
Check the IDFPR website for a list of approved CE providers [Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation Cosmetology].
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
How much does it cost to renew my cosmetology license?
The current renewal fee can be found on the IDFPR website [Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation Cosmetology], but it's usually around $80.
How long does it take to get my renewed license?
Allow 2-4 business days for your license to be processed and show up in the IDFPR system.
QuickTip: Scan quickly, then go deeper where needed.
How do I know if my CE credits were approved?
Keep copies of your CE certificates for your records. The IDFPR will also have a record of your completed CEs in their system.
How can I avoid having this existential crisis every two years?
Set yourself a reminder in your phone or calendar for a few months before the expiration date. That way, you can renew your license with peace of mind (and maybe a celebratory glass of champagne – you deserve it!).
 |
