Selling a Cosmetology License in NY is Illegal

Ask the Pro Stylist: Stylist, Educator, Manager, Executive, Tutor, Career Coach

Professionalism behind the chair is the cornerstone of my Ask the Pro Stylist career. I couldn’t have progressed as swiftly without it, and now I am becoming certified as a career coach. I hoped to let this phone call go, but I wouldn’t be my authentic self if I didn’t inform the public about potential behind-the-chair fraud.

The Call Asking if She Could Sell her Cosmetology License

In today’s current world, I thought nothing could surprise me. Ha! I was wrong. A former student turned former employee phoned with a question:

Can I sell my cosmetology license?

Yes, that happened. I had questions for her to clarify my shock. Understand this: She fully understands my perfect compliance record as the school’s director and how I value professionalism. However, she still asked. Face palm.

My immediate answer was no. It is fraud, and both parties could get into trouble. I then began explaining how spot inspections slowed during the pandemic, but I expect them to become more frequent. I then asked how this proprietor would rectify having different names on the business and cosmetology licenses.

She rushed me off the phone, but I was furious.

The next day I texted her a longer response, beginning with, “You can’t sell your license because it is temporary. You never took the practical.” I then detailed how it is fraud and finished with, and if I were to ever find out it happened, I would report the violators.

Why is Selling a Cosmetology License Equivalent to a Professional Slap in the Face?

I should not have to explain this as it should be understood. But let me begin with those of us who have dedicated our lives to cosmetology education, ensuring students leave with the knowledge to pass the exams, whether some students believe that or not.

Then there are those of us who went to vocational or private schools, some paying exorbitant tuition or having hefty school loans, but are licensed thanks to the education and hours we clocked. We had to meet education and examination requirements to pass. What did you do?

We value what we learn and continue to learn so that we can pass that knowledge on to our clients and be successful.

How dare you!

OK, maybe you made several attempts to pass the cosmetology exams and consistently fail. There is help, both free and affordable.

New York General Business Law

Your personal data is attached to your cosmetology license, which is non-transferable. Selling or transferring your license to an unlicensed individual violates the state’s regulation.

“According to New York General Business Law § 410, a license may be suspended or revoked, or a fine not exceeding five hundred dollars may be imposed for causes such as fraud or bribery in securing a license, making false statements in applications, incompetence, untrustworthiness, or violation of any provisions of the article or associated regulations.”

Under New York General Business Law § 412, “practicing cosmetology without a license or while under suspension or revocation is subject to civil penalties. The penalties are up to five hundred dollars for the first violation, one thousand dollars for the second violation, and two thousand five hundred dollars for the third and subsequent violations.”

Let Me Recap

If you sell your cosmetology license to an unlicensed person, which will “allow” them to practice, you risk fines, suspension, and revocation of the seller’s license. In addition, both parties could be barred from ever practicing cosmetology in the state, and there is a potential for criminal prosecution.

If You Suspect Fraud or Know Someone Who is Selling a Cosmetology License

If you suspect fraudulent activity, or want to check the status of your hairstylist’s license, please visit https://www.op.nysed.gov/consumer-information-professions/you-have-right.

Professionalism Behind the Chair

Professionalism behind the chair begins with knowledge. You are the artist, creative master, and knowledge guru. Show respect for your fellow professionals and never sell your cosmetology license to someone else or purchase one because you didn’t go to school or couldn’t pass the exams.

If passing the cosmetology exams is the challenge, then hire a tutor. I am here as an online, licensed hairstylist and educator, more affordable than most refresher courses. You can also download a written practice exam here.

Happy Styling!

Do you want to work in the beauty field? My book, The Future Professional’s Guide to Cosmetology, contains all the questions and answers you need. You can also email your inquiries to asktheprostylist@gmail.com or follow me on TikTok for tutoring updates.

For career, life, professional, and relationship coaching, visit my new website, www.coachingwithmsd.com.

©Deirdre Haggerty 2025. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. It is unlawful to reproduce this article or any part without the author’s prior written permission and consent.

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