New licenses available for professional hair braiders

CHICAGO – Earlier this month, compromise legislation took effect creating a new category of licenses for hair braiders in Illinois.  Under the new law, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) will begin issuing licenses to professionals who braid the hair of their clients.  People wishing to enter the profession as licensed hair braiders will be able to obtain a license with 300 hours of classroom and practical experience.  Under prior law, a full cosmetology license and 1500 hours of training was required if a hair braider sought a license.

Under the new law, braiders who have sufficient experience may apply for a hair braider license and/or a hair braiding teacher license based on their practical experience under the ‘grandfather period’ contained in the law.  Individuals applying under the grandfather provision must submit a complete application to the Department postmarked no later than December 31, 2012.

The recently adopted administrative rules authorize IDFPR to approve hair braiding curriculum at cosmetology schools and license hair braiding schools and teachers.  The Department has implemented licensing, professional standards, and disciplinary procedures for hair braiders.

Applications and forms are available on the Hair Braiding page of the Professional Regulation section of IDFPR’s website at http://www.idfpr.com/PROFS/Info/HairB.asp.  Submit written requests for applications and forms to Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, 320 West Washington Street, Third Floor, ATTN: FORMS, Springfield, IL 62786.  Questions regarding the “Grandfather Period” should be directed to the Technical Assistance Unit of the Division at 217-782-8556.