The Commonwealth of Massachusetts insists on the highest standards in electrology licensing — protecting both clients and professionals.
The profession of electrology in Massachusetts is governed by the State Board of Registration of Electrologists, which operates under the Division of Professional Licensure. The Board is comprised of three Registered Electrologists, one physician, and one public member. Working under the umbrella of the Cosmetology and Barbering Board, their mission is to safeguard consumers and practitioners by setting education, policy, and continuing education standards.
Training required
Written + Practical
Every 2 years
A minimum of 1,100 hours of state-approved training — both classroom and practical — is required to practice electrology in Massachusetts. Upon successful completion of an approved program, candidates must pass both a written and a practical State Board examination.
Successful completion results in the designation of Registered Electrologist (RE). Recent curriculum updates also include the training hours needed to qualify as a Laser Electrologist.
Since May 4, 2015, the scope of practice includes Laser and IPL hair removal, referred to as Laser Electrolysis. Electrologists no longer need a separate treatment room for laser/IPL procedures.
Note: Laser training hours may count toward continuing education requirements for one renewal cycle.
Registered Electrologists with 5+ years of active practice in Massachusetts may apply to take the State Board’s Instructor Examination, offered during regular testing periods.
While Massachusetts licensing ensures the highest professional standards, many electrologists choose to take the extra step of earning the Certified Professional Electrologist (CPE) credential. This national board certification, offered by the American Electrology Association, demonstrates a commitment to ongoing education and excellence beyond state requirements.
Learn About CPE CertificationLearn about the different credentials Massachusetts Electrologists can hold and why consumers may want to choose a professional with each designation.
This is the designation for a licensed Electrologist in Massachusetts. Licenses are renewed every two years and require 10 hours of continuing education (1.0 CEUs).
Why consumers care: An RE ensures the practitioner meets state-mandated education and training standards, providing safety and accountability.
Licensed Electrology instructors must first be a Registered Electrologist with five years of experience and pass the Instructor examination.
Why consumers care: An RI has extra experience and expertise, ensuring high-quality training or guidance.
Electrologists with advanced training in laser and IPL. Licensed to provide both traditional and laser/IPL hair removal services.
Why consumers care: Provides additional treatment options, safely combining electrolysis with laser/IPL services.
Internationally board-certified Electrologist. Must complete 75 hours (7.5 CEUs) every five years or retest to maintain certification.
Why consumers care: Demonstrates extra dedication, professionalism, and expertise above state requirements.
The Commonwealth requires 1,100 hours of training at a state-approved electrology school, followed by passing both a written and practical State Board examination.
Electrology licenses must be renewed every two years. Renewal requires 10 hours (1.0 CEUs) of continuing education in approved topics.
Yes. Since May 2015, electrologists may perform Laser or IPL treatments as part of their scope of practice, after completing the required state-approved training hours.
Registered Electrologists with at least 5 years of active practice may apply to take the State Board’s Instructor Examination, offered during regular testing periods.
Massachusetts Association of Electrologists is affiliated with the American Electrology Association, Inc. (AEA), the largest international electrology membership organization. The AEA and MAE provide programs, resources and continuing education that benefit the electrologist, the profession and the consumer.
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