Moving Your Esthetics Career to Virginia? Here’s Your Complete Guide to License Transfer in Fairfax County
If you’re a licensed esthetician looking to relocate your practice to Virginia, particularly Fairfax County, you’ll need to navigate the state’s license transfer process. Virginia requires out-of-state estheticians to submit an Endorsement Application to obtain a license based on holding a current valid license in another state. While the process may seem complex, understanding the requirements can help ensure a smooth transition to practicing in the Commonwealth.
Understanding Virginia’s License Transfer Requirements
Virginia operates under what’s called an “endorsement” system for license transfers. Any person currently licensed to practice as an esthetician or master esthetician in any other state or jurisdiction of the United States and who has completed both a training program and a written examination and a practical examination that are substantially equivalent to those required by Virginia may be issued an esthetician or master esthetician license without an examination.
The key requirements for license transfer include:
- Having met at least 80% of Virginia’s required training hours
- If you don’t have all required hours, you must have six months full time experience as an esthetician
- Being in good standing as a licensed esthetician in Virginia and all other jurisdictions where licensed, and disclosing any disciplinary action taken in connection with your practice
- Meeting examination requirements based on exams previously completed in other states, with exams having been administered by the state licensing agency rather than schools
The Application Process
To transfer your license to Virginia, you’ll need to complete several steps:
- Submit a completed Endorsement Application and application fee
- Request the licensing authority in the state where you are currently licensed to mail a Certification of Licensure to the Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology. If you originally obtained licensure in a different jurisdiction than where you currently hold a license, the Certification should come from the original jurisdiction where you completed your training and exams
- Submit documentation of successful completion of training to the board. If you completed less than the required hours of esthetics training, you must provide documentation of six months of work experience as an esthetician
Virginia’s Current Licensing Standards
Virginia requires completion of a licensed esthetics program consisting of 600 hours of training and successfully passing written and practical examinations for esthetician licensure. Recent 2025 legislation has established new rules that directly impact professions regulated under the Board for Barbers and Cosmetologists, so it’s important to stay current with any changes.
The state also offers participation in the Cosmetology Compact, which allows cosmetologists to obtain a multistate license enabling them to work in or transfer to other compact states with no additional requirements. The Compact is expected to become operational in late 2025 or 2026.
Preparing for Your Move to Fairfax County
Fairfax County, particularly the Tysons Corner area, offers excellent opportunities for estheticians. The region’s proximity to Washington D.C. creates a thriving market for skincare professionals. Virginia is home to some of the wealthiest suburbs where earning potential can soar well above the national average, with licensed estheticians projected to increase from 1,256 in 2016 to 1,403 by 2026.
If you’re considering advancing your education while transitioning to Virginia, exploring programs at a quality esthetician school fairfax can help you stay current with the latest techniques and technologies in the field.
Working with AVI Career Training
For estheticians looking to enhance their skills or meet additional requirements, AVI Career Training in Tysons Corner offers comprehensive programs. Located in Tysons Corner, Fairfax County, AVI has been transforming beauty enthusiasts into skilled professionals for years with their flagship 1000-hour program that sets the gold standard in cosmetology and skincare education.
AVI Career Training is accredited by the Council of Occupational Education (COE) and approved by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV). The school believes in making learning hands-on and fun, covering everything from mastering microdermabrasion to chemical peels and advanced facial treatments.
AVI welcomes students from all backgrounds, including international students and veterans, offering a diverse and inclusive learning environment with strong industry links providing excellent opportunities for internships and jobs.
Financial Considerations and Support
Moving your practice involves various costs, but Virginia offers support options. AVI Career Training offers various financial aid options, including Title IV Funding, Pell Grants, Direct Loans, and more, to help eligible students achieve their career aspirations without financial barriers.
Timeline and Temporary Practice
While your endorsement application is being processed, Virginia offers temporary permits. Estheticians should refer to Section 18 VAC 41-70-70 of the Esthetics Regulations for information on temporary permits. The temporary license will remain in force for 90 days, and no subsequent temporary license shall be issued.
Staying Current with Continuing Education
Virginia does not require continuing education credits for esthetician license renewal, but staying current with industry advances is beneficial for your practice. Taking classes at local beauty schools can help you impress clients and keep them coming back.
Transferring your esthetician license to Virginia opens doors to a thriving market in Fairfax County and the greater Washington D.C. area. With proper preparation and understanding of the requirements, you can successfully establish your practice in the Commonwealth and take advantage of the region’s excellent opportunities for skincare professionals.