TRANSFER LICENSE TO WV

Transferring a license (also known as Reciprocity) to West Virginia is a detailed process that requires accurate and official documentation. 

As of May 2010, West Virginia only accepts reciprocity applications from applicants that have passed the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC- the developing body of national testing) written and practical examination in their originally licensed state.  Applicants currently licensed in another state that haven't taken or passed the NIC Written and Practical Examination must take the full exam with the third-party examiner, DL Roope. 

To apply and schedule for the full exam, please visit DL Roope's website by clicking here.

Although applicants that have passed both the NIC Written and Practical Examination do not have to take the full exam, they must schedule a time with the Board office to take the WV State Law Examination after the applicant's reciprocity application has been approved.


To check if you have taken the NIC Written and Practical, please contact your state board or the examiners of your licensure exam.

NOTE: West Virginia does not accept reciprocity or transfer of license for Manicurists/ Nail Technicians.  This profession must take and pass a practical examination, West Virginia state law, and the National Written examination.

The following steps are required to transfer a license to West Virginia.

1. Complete the required information in the Reciprocity Packet. Reciprocity Application (Transfer Your License to WV).pdf
2. Contact the State Board you are licensed in and request a license certification sent from the Board's office to the West Virginia State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists.  Some states may take up to 4-6 weeks to process your request, so it is important to ensure your state sends the license certificate to our office before the board meeting.  No applicant will be considered without proper documentation. 
3. Gather all required documents and attach with Reciprocity Packet.
4. Submit Reciprocity Packet and required documents to the West Virginia State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists.
5. The Board office will contact you concerning your application within 2-3 weeks of receipt.
6. If the application is approved, a time will be set to take the WV State Law Exam.

*Please note that West Virginia does not require a licensed person to place their current state license on inactive to become eligible for licensure.