There are several routes you may take to obtain a Georgia teaching certificate in the field of Cosmetology.

If you hold a Georgia level 4 or higher professional or Five (5)-Year Induction teaching certificate:

If you are assigned to teach in the field of Cosmetology, your employing Georgia school or school system may request a 3-year Non-Renewable and a 3-year Induction certificate for you if you meet the following requirements:

• Have at least two years of occupational work experience in the field.

In order to convert to a renewable certificate, you will need to meet the following requirements:

• Hold a valid Master Cosmetologist or Cosmetology Instructor license issued by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology; and
• Pass the aligned GACE literacy assessment appropriate to the field.

If you have never been certified in GA but hold a professional teaching certificate in another state in Cosmetology or a comparable field:

You may apply for initial Georgia certification through interstate reciprocity. Please submit your application materials in order to determine which additional requirements, if any, you will be required to fulfill to obtain Georgia certification in this field.

If you do not hold a professional teaching certificate in any state:

To qualify for a 3-year Provisional certificate in Cosmetology, you must fulfill the following requirements:

• Hold a minimum of a high school diploma or GED equivalent;
• Hold a valid Master Cosmetologist or Cosmetology Instructor license issued by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology;
• Have at least 2 years of occupational work experience in the field; and
• Pass the GACE Ethics for Teachers assessment.

If you meet these requirements, you may seek employment as a Cosmetology teacher in a Georgia school. Once you are hired, your school may request the Provisional certificate on your behalf. You will have to fulfill other requirements to convert your certificate. These requirements will be outlined when your certificate is issued.

For more information about certification in Cosmetology and other Career & Technical Specializations, please click here.