Each licensed esthetician or licensed cosmetologist is responsible for keeping individual records of continuing education completion, in case the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation requests it. The Beauty Crew Academy suggests keeping these records for a minimum of three renewal cycles, or six years, should you be selected for an audit. When letting your license lapse you are most likely to be audited and must show proof of all CE courses you have taken. The Beauty Crew Academy keeps all student files and proof of attendance for our alumni. If you cannot fulfill your CE requirements we have listed the procedures to request a waiver below.
Procedures for Requesting a Waiver of the Continuing Education Requirement
If you have not completed the CE requirement you MUST either place your license on inactive status or submit a completed renewal application, along with the renewal fee and a request for waiver of the CE requirement. Requests for a waiver of the CE requirement must be submitted prior to the expiration date of your current license, along with the renewal fee. The request for a waiver MUST be based on one of the following reasons:
A) Full-time service in the armed forces of the U.S. during a substantial part of the prerenewal period. In addition to the written waiver request, you must also submit verification of the start and end date of the active duty;
B) An incapacitating illness. In addition to the written waiver request, you must also submit a doctor's statement that includes the diagnosis and the start and end date of the treatment.
C) Substantial financial hardship. In addition to the written waiver request, you must submit a copy of your most recently filed federal tax return.
D) Absence of opportunities for CE. (This means there were no CE programs offered in the area in which you reside.) In addition to the written waiver request, you must document your attempts to obtain CE in your area. (You may obtain up to one-half of your hours through self-study.)
FAQs Regarding Renewing Your License
When does my esthetics license expire? Illinois esthetician licenses expire September 30th of each odd-numbered year and may be renewed within the month prior to expiration.
How do I renew my license? First, make sure it’s a renewal year and you’ve complied with the continuing education requirements. Second, visit https://online-dfpr.micropact.com/ and click on the “License Renewals” button. Follow the online instructions under “Renewals for Individuals” for “Online Credit Card Renewals”. Upon completion, you should receive a confirmation e-mail within a couple of days.
How much does license renewal cost?The State of Illinois currently charges $50 per renewal period. The fee is payable online via Visa, MasterCard, or Discover credit/debit cards.
How often do I have to renew my Illinois esthetician license?Your esthetician license needs to be renewed every odd year. In Illinois, esthetician licenses are renewed in odd-numbered years (e.g. 2017, 2019, 2021, etc.). You do not have to meet the continuing education requirements for your first renewal cycle after license issuance.
What are CEUs?CEU stands for Continuing Education Unit. One CEU = one hour of approved continuing education classes.
How many CEUs do I need & where can I get them? Estheticians in Illinois are required to complete 10 CEUs every odd year. You can take continuing education classes with The Beauty Crew Academy, product manufacturers, equipment providers, online providers, trade shows, and more. Be sure to verify that your chosen provider is approved by the State of Illinois so that the CEUs will count. Keep the certificate provided by the C.E. sponsor as proof of attendance. Illinois requires you to complete a minimum of half of your C.E. hours in person.
What kinds of classes can I take? There are many topics available for CE classes. Some popular topics lately include eyelash extension courses, lash lift and tint courses, brow lamination courses, advanced topics like light microdermabrasion & exfoliation. You’ll also find traditional topics available such as speed waxing, eyebrow artistry, facial massage and more. These classes are great for brushing up on your skills before starting a new job. Be sure to make sure that the course you attend is an IDFPR CEU Sponsor when signing up.
How much do continuing education classes cost?Pricing will vary depending on the provider and course topic and their realm of expertise. Be sure to research class options and find something you’re interested in learning more about.