Working as a cosmetologist in Illinois comes with a range of benefits, including a high average annual salary of $41,946, job independence, and flexible career paths. And while you already want to jump in, you must first ask yourself what it takes to keep succeeding and maintain your licence in good standing.
If you ask us, the most important thing you should do is to renew your licence on time. This way, you can enjoy the peace and calm of knowing you are compliant, and this will reflect in your performance. So, what is the process like?
First, Understand the Renewal Cycle
Illinois, like many other states, uses a fixed biennial renewal cycle that applies consistently to all cosmetologist licences. Once you get your licence, it will be good for the next two years, and will expire on September 30 of odd-numbered years.
You can always submit your complete renewal application within the 90 days before your licence expires. In truth, it is very much advisable to submit your application as soon as the renewal window opens. Remember, processing takes time, and you would be at an advantage if you received your renewed licence before the old one expires.
Complete Your CE Early Enough
Some cosmetologists, the newer ones especially, may miss the fact that they have to take continuing education (CE) courses to renew their licence successfully. In Illinois, you must take 14 hours of continuing education from a recognised provider every renewal cycle.
If you ask us, the best way to renew cosmetology license IL would be to get a simplified course from a leading provider like RocketCert. This way, you don’t have to spend most of your time studying and trying to understand what the content is all about.
Besides, simplified courses like the ones RocketCert offers will always come with better value for money. That’s in consideration that you will understand the information much better and can apply it in your daily activities at work.
What is more, taking your course from an approved provider gives you the confidence that your course has all the necessary topics. This includes the one-hour mandatory course on domestic violence and sexual assault awareness.
What Mistakes Can Ruin Your Renewal Experience?
You might think that the renewal process is so straightforward that no mistakes come up along the way. Well, you are wrong. Mistakes happen a lot, typically as a result of professionals misunderstanding the structure of the system.
The most common mistake is assuming that CE hours can be completed after submitting the renewal application. In Illinois, this isn’t allowed. You must complete all 14 hours before submitting your renewal application.
Another mistake many cosmetologists make when starting their journey is failing to track documentation. While proof of completion documents aren’t required when submitting your application, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) can specifically request that you send them. Failing to store your renewal documents safely can lead to delays in processing if you can’t produce the documents upon request.
The third and most detrimental mistake is failing to take the September 30 deadline seriously. It’s not uncommon for life to get in the way, but here is where good planning comes in. So, make sure you are well on track to submit your renewal application by the deadline.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Renewing your cosmetology licence in Illinois shouldn’t be as complicated as it might sound at first. But you need a clear plan. Don’t procrastinate anything, but especially the continuing education course. Remember, two years may look like a lot of time, but not much so when you have a full schedule.
Luckily, RocketCert addresses one of the main challenges that make professionals postpone their CE journey: complicated courses. Since RocketCert’s courses are written and fully narrated by experts, they are not only easier to complete but also fun. So, are you ready to start your CE journey?