Transferring a license (also known as Reciprocity) to West Virginia is a detailed process that requires accurate and official documentation. If you hold a valid license to practice barbering, cosmetology, aesthetics, nail technology, or hair styling in another state, the following steps are required to transfer your license to West Virginia:
- Contact the State Board where you hold a valid license and request a license certification, and verification of your training, be sent from the Board's office to the West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. Some states may take up to 4-6 weeks to process your request. If the state where you completed your training and hold a valid license are different states, you must contact the State Board located in the State where you completed your training and request verification of your training be sent to the West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists.
- Print the Application for Registration by Reciprocity. https://www.wvbbc.com/Portals/WVBBC/docs/Forms/Transfer License to West Virginia (Reciprocity Application).pdf. No applicant will be considered without proper documentation. Gather all required documents and submit with the Application for Registration by Reciprocity. Application must be mailed to WVBBC; P.O. Box 40235, Charleston, WV 25364.
*Please note that West Virginia does not require a licensed person to place their current state license on inactive status to become eligible for licensure.