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The Maryland Department of Labor's Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing is launching a new license for eyelash extension technicians, effective in early 2026. Until now, officials said people providing eyelash extension services have been mandated to obtain a cosmetologist or esthetician license from the Maryland Board of Cosmetologists. ALSO READ | The new limited license now makes it possible for people who want to provide these services in Maryland to do so without also paying for a broader cosmetologist or esthetician license. “Establishing this license is an important step forward for both safety and opportunity in Maryland,” Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Portia Wu said via a press release. “We are supporting consumers by ensuring that a growing industry adheres to safety standards, while also offering a clear and affordable pathway for technicians to advance their careers.” allowed the Maryland Board of Cosmetologists, which operates through the Division, to create this limited license. According to the bill, applicants must be "at least 17 years old, have successfully completed a 9th grade education or equivalent, received certain training and passed a practical and written examination" to provide eyelash extension services. While that process is underway, officials said a temporary license will be available to make sure lash technicians can continue working without disruption. The temporary license is set to launch in early 2026, while the standard license is expected to launch in late 2026, according to the Maryland Department of Labor. Lash technicians must take the following steps to comply with the new law: Confirm that the salon where they provide these services has an active permit from the Maryland Board of Cosmetologists or apply for a salon permit Only provide eyelash extension services in a salon that meets the standards of the Board’s regulations Follow the Board’s health and safety regulations Beginning in early 2026, apply for and obtain a temporary individual license to work as an eyelash technician Applications for a temporary license will be available early next year. To obtain one, applicants must submit an application to the Board acknowledging that eyelash technician services may only be performed in a Board-permitted salon. Technicians who intend to operate in their own facility may at any time, according to officials. Temporary license holders will be able to renew their license for an additional year while working toward their standard license. To obtain a standard license, lash technicians will have to complete a Board-approved training and pass a State Board exam. Officials said more details will be announced next year. Technicians who don't receive a temporary license by December 31, 2026, will have to refrain from providing lash extension services until they fulfill the standard license requirements, including training and exam requirements. For more information, click .
