Illinois cosmetology CE requirements
Board: IDFPR — Division of Professional Regulation (BCENT)
Website: idfpr.illinois.gov/profs/cosmo.html
Phone: 1-800-560-6420
Renewal Portal: CORE portal (idfpr.illinois.gov)
CE hours required
Cosmetologist (011.xxxxxx): 14 hours
Esthetician (131.xxxxxx): 10 hours
Nail Technician (169.xxxxxx): 10 hours
Cosmetology/Esthetics Teacher: 24 hours
Renewal deadlines
Cosmetologist / Esthetician: September 30, 2027
Nail Technician / Hair Braider: October 31, 2026
2025 online CE variance
As of May 30, 2025, IDFPR issued a variance allowing 100% of CE hours to be completed online (previously capped at 50%). This is temporary, pending permanent rule change.
⚠️ Important — 2026 mandatory requirement: Abnormal skin growth / melanoma education
Pursuant to P.A. 103-0851 (Melanoma Education Law), starting January 1, 2026, ALL Illinois cosmetology renewals require 1 hour of abnormal skin growth education, including training on identifying melanoma.
This applies to:
New applicants for original licensure on or after January 1, 2026
All existing licensees submitting their first renewal or restoration on or after January 1, 2026
Currently approved course (only approved option while IDFPR finalizes rules):
"Skinny on Skin" by Impact Melanoma, Inc.
Available FREE at: impactmelanoma.org/skinny-on-skin/
A certificate of completion is provided — submit it with your license renewal.
Source: IDFPR Statement, P.A. 103-0851, dated August 21, 2025.
CE reporting
Self-certification on the CORE portal. Retain certificates for potential audit — the board does not collect them at renewal.