New Idaho Law Speeds Up Testing for Students

Faster exams, faster employment. Governor Brad Little signed into law House Bill 514 (HB 514), bringing important updates to Idaho’s exam requirements that will benefit students and their careers.

HB 514 allows students enrolled in cosmetology, esthetics, barbering, barber-styling, nail technology, or electrology programs to take their licensing examination once they complete 80 percent of their required education hours.

This change is designed to reduce the lag time between graduation and licensure, helping students transition into the workforce faster without unnecessary delays. Idaho hopes to see smoother exam scheduling with improved graduation and job placement timelines.

Effective: July 1, 2026