How Long Does It Take to Become an Esthetician in Colorado? (2026 Guide)
If you are considering enrolling in esthetician school, one of the most common questions is:
How long does it take to become a licensed esthetician in Colorado?
In Colorado, the timeline depends primarily on the state-mandated 600-hour education requirement, your class schedule (full-time or part-time), and how quickly you complete the licensing exam process through the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).
This guide breaks down each stage so you can understand the realistic timeline from enrollment to licensure.
Step 1: Complete the Required 600 Hours of Education
Colorado requires all esthetician applicants to complete 600 clock hours at a state-approved esthetics program.
How Long Is 600 Hours?
Your completion time depends on your schedule:
✔ Full-Time Students
Typically complete 600 hours in 4 to 6 months
Faster progression with consistent daily attendance
✔ Part-Time Students
May take 6 to 9 months or longer
Designed for students balancing work or family commitments
Some programs offer structured day or evening tracks to accommodate different schedules.
Step 2: Apply for and Pass the Licensing Exam
After completing your 600 hours, you must pass Colorado’s required esthetician licensing examination.
The process includes:
Submitting documentation of education completion
Scheduling the written (and practical, if applicable) exam
Successfully passing the required exam components
Exam scheduling availability may affect how quickly you move forward.
Most students complete this phase within 2 to 6 weeks after graduation, depending on testing availability and preparation.
Step 3: Submit Your License Application Through DORA
Once you pass the exam, you must:
Apply for licensure through DORA’s online portal
Pay required fees
Await application processing and approval
Processing times vary, but many applicants receive approval within several weeks after submitting complete documentation.
Total Timeline: From Enrollment to Licensure
For most students in Colorado:
Fastest timeline (full-time schedule): Approximately 5–7 months total
Average timeline (part-time schedule): Approximately 7–10 months total
This includes education, exam scheduling, and license approval.
Can You Become an Esthetician Faster in Colorado?
Because Colorado requires 600 hours, there is no legal shortcut to bypass this requirement.
However, you can:
Choose a structured full-time program
Prepare early for the licensing exam
Submit application materials promptly
Efficient planning helps minimize delays.
What Happens After You’re Licensed?
Once licensed, you may legally practice esthetics within Colorado’s scope of practice.
Many new estheticians immediately pursue:
Employment in spas or medspas
Lash extension certification
Advanced esthetics training
Laser certifications
Permanent makeup training (separate regulatory pathway)
Your 600-hour license becomes the foundation for additional specialization.
Factors That Can Affect Your Timeline
Several variables may influence how long it takes:
Attendance consistency
Program scheduling options
Exam availability
Personal study preparation
Application processing time
Choosing a well-organized, state-approved school helps keep you on track.
Is 600 Hours Enough to Start a Career?
The 600-hour requirement provides the minimum foundation necessary for licensure. While it prepares you for entry-level practice, many graduates continue their education in specialized areas such as medical aesthetics, lash artistry, or advanced skin treatments.
Your long-term success depends on continued education, mentorship, and skill development.
Begin Your Esthetics Journey in Denver
Elite Aesthetics Academy’s 600-Hour Esthetician License Program in Denver is structured to help students complete their hours efficiently while gaining hands-on experience and exam preparation support aligned with DORA standards.
If you are ready to start your journey toward becoming a licensed esthetician in Colorado, request program details or speak with our admissions team about upcoming class start dates.
Your path to licensure begins with completing the required 600 hours — and choosing the right school to guide you.
Why Choosing the Right 600-Hour Program Matters
Because Colorado mandates 600 hours of approved education, the quality of your school directly impacts:
Your exam readiness
Your clinical confidence
Your employment opportunities
Your long-term earning potential
A strong program prepares you not only to meet DORA requirements — but to succeed professionally after licensure.
Begin Your Path to Licensure in Denver
Elite Aesthetics Academy’s 600-Hour Esthetician License Program in Denver is designed to meet Colorado licensing standards under DORA while providing structured hands-on training and professional preparation.
If you are ready to pursue esthetician licensure in Colorado, request program details or speak with our admissions team about upcoming enrollment opportunities.
Your journey to becoming a licensed esthetician begins with meeting Colorado’s official requirements — and choosing the right education program.
👉 Explore 600-hour esthetician license program in Denver
Start esthetics Training
For many aspiring estheticians, daytime education simply isn’t an option. Work commitments, financial responsibilities, and family obligations often require a more flexible approach. A night esthetician program offers the opportunity to pursue a new career without disrupting your current livelihood.