Milady Training

Read Time: 4 Minutes
Expertise Area: All Career Fields
Career Stage: Recently Licensed & Seasoned Professionals

Expert Career Advice ➜ Building a Future ➜ Moving As A Beauty Professional

Figuring out state laws and moving as a beauty professional involves more than just packing, it involves re-establishing yourself as a beauty and wellness professional and in some cases, obtaining licensure all over again..

What Happens To My License When I Move Out of State?

If you’re moving across state lines, you’ll want to do your homework before you make your move. Each state has different requirements and it will take a little upfront work on your part to ensure you are setup for success in your new state.

Begin the Process

Contact the State Board in the state where you are planning on moving. They will be able to provide you with all the information you will need, as every state’s regulations are different.

What are the hourly requirements in the new state?

Every state has different hour requirements for a cosmetology licensure or any other industry license. As an example, California requires 1600 hours while New York only requires 1000 hours. It’s important to know what is required by the state and if any hours are transferable.

Does the new state offer reciprocity?

Reciprocity is one way to work in a state other than the state where you're licensed without having to do extras, like retake exams or go through additional education requirements of the new state. It’s important to note this is not available in all states.

Do you need Continuing Education hours?

Some states will require you to take continuing education classes (CEU hours) before transferring a license. We offer some online continuing education classes here. Most states can provide you with a list of approved continuing education classes and specific requirements. Always check with the new state board first before enrolling or taking continuing education classes.

Do you need work experience to transfer to a new state?

Inquire if you need past work experience or need have held your licenses for a certain number of years to transfer to the new state.

Are there fees or expenses?

Most states have a fee to transfer a license. Make certain you ask about the expenses that will be associated with your move.

How Do I Tell My Clients I'm Moving?

Not only will you more than likely move from one salon to another, you likely will find yourself on an entirely new career path someday. How you handle your move each time change occurs is critical to your success. People watch, they listen, and they remember. Leave with dignity, honor, and respect. The most important thing to remember is to handle the transition with professionalism and discretion.

Speak to your Owner/Manager/Co-Workers

When leaving, whether its across state lines or to another salon across town, first things first: speak with your salon owner or manager about an exit plan and ask them how they would like you to communicate to clients and co-workers.

When Moving Across State Lines

When moving beyond the area where seeing your current clients is not feasible, it will be important to set up a plan with your manager and team members on who will be servicing your clients. Some service providers choose to come back for one week a month to serve those loyal clients. If you have a strong loyal client base, this is a win-win for everyone. It’s worth a try for a few months if you can do it. Otherwise, plan to transition your clients to another service provider to ensure a seamless transition for both your client and your team.

When Moving Across Town

When you are moving across town, it is still essential to speak with your salon owner or manager about an exit plan and ask them how they would like you to communicate to clients. This should only be done after you have accepted your new job. Honor their wishes but don’t be afraid to ask them to inform those clients who ask where you’ve moved. Ultimately, the client will choose where they will go, and they should be given the information if available. Now, that’s not to say that it will be honored; after all business is business. Do your best to be respectful and honest throughout the transition. Avoid gossip and discussing of your impending move with co-workers and/or clients during work hours unless otherwise agreed upon with your owner.

You’ve Made the Move

Once you’ve left, personally contact via a phone call or personal note (not a text or email) and let your clients know you’ve moved. Again, keep everything professional and respectful.

In life, and especially in this industry, change happens. When it does it is important you handle each transition professionally and respectful. Take the initial time to do your homework by contacting the State Board in the state where you’re planning on moving to ensure a smooth transition into your new state and your new career.