posted on: 02/20/2026
It’s been a minute since we’ve caught you up on the Cosmetology Licensure Compact (Compact), and if you’ve been wondering, “When can I apply for a multistate license?” you’re not alone.
A lot of important groundwork is happening behind the scenes. Although multistate licenses aren’t being issued yet, the Compact is moving through the early steps required to make them possible. Here’s a quick refresher on what the Compact is designed to do, the responsibilities of the new Compact Commission and its delegates, and the role of the 2026 legislative session.
What the Compact Will Do?
Once multistate licenses become available, should you choose to apply for one, they will be recognized in every state that participates in the Compact. Less paperwork, fewer delays, and more freedom to work wherever life takes you.
The intention is to:
- Allow professionals to work across member states without reapplying or waiting for a new license
- Reduce downtime between jobs when moving or working across state lines
- Improve license portability for traveling professionals and anyone relocating for a job opportunity, family, or personal adventure
- Strengthen public protection by improving data sharing across state boards
- Streamline regulation so states can collaborate more efficiently
What’s a Compact Commission?
After the first 10 states enacted the Compact language, the Commission was stood up in October 2025. It functions similarly to your state cosmetology board.
The Commission is responsible for:
- Writing the rules and procedures needed to implement the Compact
- Setting standards for how states share information
- Establishing fees (how much a multistate license will cost)
- Developing processes and administrative systems (how you will apply for a multistate license, for example)
- Ensuring consistency across all member states
Essentially, the Commission turns the Compact from just a bill into a working system.
The current member states are Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington.
What Is a Commission Delegate?
Each member state appoints one delegate. Delegates are usually the executive officer of their state board or a staff member—they cannot be board members.
A delegate’s responsibilities include:
- Representing their state in Commission decisions
- Voting on rules, bylaws, and administrative policies
- Participating in meetings and committees
- Ensuring their state board implements the Compact smoothly
You can view the 10 Compact Commission delegates here. So far, the Commission has met twice virtually and once in person.
Will the 2026 Legislative Session Impact the Compact?
More than likely, yes. Plenty of states are considering joining the Compact in 2026. Active legislation is already underway in the following states: Delaware, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York Pennsylvania, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin, and we may see bills introduced in California and North Carolina.
The more states that join, the more valuable the Compact becomes for working cosmetologists.
Stay Tuned
The Compact is moving through required foundational steps to make cosmetology multistate licenses a reality, and momentum remains steady. With more states considering legislation and the Commission continuing its work in 2026, the future of license portability looks bright. We’ll share information as it happens, what’s next, and when you may be able to apply for a multistate license.
Additional Resources to Explore
Cosmetology Compact Bylaws (adopted July 2025)
The bylaws outline how the Commission operates, including meeting procedures, voting rules, officer roles, and committee structures.
Rules on Rulemaking (adopted July 2025)
The rules explain the process the Commission must follow when creating or updating Compact rules, including public notice, comment periods, and transparency requirements.
Cosmetology Compact
A centralized hub for ducational resources, news, and a map of the states that have enacted or introduced Compact legislation.