DOL Registered Apprenticeship

Indiana Cosmetology Apprenticeship

Host an apprentice. Grow your salon. Build the next generation of licensed cosmetologists.

Apply as a Host Salon Schedule a Call

Program Overview

How the Program Works

1

Apply & Get Approved

Submit your application, complete a Zoom site visit, and sign the MOU. Approval takes about 1 week.

2

Host an Apprentice

We match qualified apprentices to your salon. They complete 2,000 hours of on-the-job training under your supervision.

3

Grow Your Team

Apprentices complete theory through Elevate LMS, then sit for the Indiana State Board exam. You get a trained, licensed cosmetologist.

Requirements

What Host Salons Need to Know

Workers' Compensation

Required for all apprentices. If you don't carry it yet, we can help you understand your options.

Pay Structure

Apprentices must be paid at least minimum wage ($7.25/hr). Hourly, commission, or hybrid — your choice.

Supervising Cosmetologist

Designate a licensed Indiana cosmetologist to supervise apprentices, verify hours, and sign off on competencies.

Valid Salon License

Your salon must hold a valid Indiana salon license and be in good standing with the IPLA.

Video Site Visit

A 15-minute Zoom walkthrough of your salon before final approval.

DOL RAPIDS Listing

Approved salons are listed on the U.S. Department of Labor RAPIDS system as registered worksites.

Timeline

Approval Timeline

1

Apply Online

Day 1

Complete the partner application — salon license, supervisor info, and salon photos.

2

License Verification

Days 1–3

We verify your salon license and supervisor credentials with IPLA.

3

Video Site Visit

Days 3–5

15-minute Zoom walkthrough of your salon.

4

MOU Signing

Days 5–6

Review and sign the Memorandum of Understanding.

5

Approved

~1 Week

Your salon is approved and listed as a registered DOL worksite.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to become a host salon?
No fee. You pay the apprentice a wage. Elevate handles program administration, theory training, and DOL compliance.
Do I need workers' comp insurance?
Yes. Workers' compensation is required for all apprentices.
How are apprentices paid?
At least minimum wage ($7.25/hr). You choose the model — hourly, commission, or hybrid.
How long does the apprenticeship last?
Apprentices complete 2,000 hours of on-the-job training. Full-time is about 1 year.
Can apprentices use an ITIN instead of SSN?
Yes. We accept ITIN for enrollment in place of a Social Security Number.
What happens after the apprentice finishes?
They sit for the Indiana State Board cosmetology license exam. Many salons hire their apprentices as licensed cosmetologists.

Ready to Partner With Us?

Join the Indiana Cosmetology Apprenticeship program and start developing talent for your salon.

Start Your Application (317) 314-3757