The primary objective of the Board of Cosmetology and Barbering, to which all other objectives and purposes are secondary, is to protect the general public (specifically those persons who are direct recipients of services regulated by these subchapters) from unsafe practices, and from occupational practices which tend to reduce competition or artificially fix the price of services rendered. The secondary objectives of the Board are to maintain minimum standards of practitioner competency, and to maintain certain standards in the delivery of services to the public. In meeting its objectives, the Board shall develop standards assuring professional competency; shall monitor complaints brought against practitioners regulated by the Board; shall adjudicate at formal complaint hearings; shall promulgate rules and regulations; and shall impose sanctions where necessary against practitioners.

63 Del. Laws, c. 146, §  3;  64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1; 

As used in this chapter:

(1) “Aesthetician” is an individual who practices any of the following:

a. Cleansing, stimulating, manipulating and beautifying skin by hand or mechanical or electric apparatus or appliance.

b. Application of lash extensions, additions or enhancements, including permanent waving and tinting.

c. Removal of superfluous hair.

d. Gives treatments to keep skin healthy and attractive.

An aesthetician is not authorized to prescribe medication or provide medical treatment in the same manner as a dermatologist.

(2) “Apprentice” means any person who is engaged in the learning of any or all the practices of cosmetology, barbering, nail technology or electrology from a practitioner licensed in the profession the apprentice is studying. The apprentice may perform or assist the licensed practitioner in any of the functions which the practitioner is licensed to perform.

(3) “Barber” means any person licensed under this chapter who, for a monetary consideration, shaves or trims beards, cuts or dresses hair, gives facial or scalp massages, or treats beards or scalps with preparations made for this purpose.

(4) “Board” means the state Board of Cosmetology and Barbering under this chapter.

(5) “Classroom hour” means 50 minutes of each 60-minute hour.

(6) “Cosmetologist” means any person licensed under this chapter who is not an apprentice or student practicing cosmetology, who shall have the qualifications provided for by this chapter.

(7) “Cosmetology” means performing any of the following services for compensation:

a. The embellishment, cleansing and beautification of human hair, such as arranging, dressing, curling, permanent waving, cutting, singeing, pressing, chemically bleaching or coloring, chemically straightening, or similar services.

b. Applying lash extensions, additions or enhancements, including permanent waving and tinting.

c. The temporary removal of superfluous hair.

d. Nail technology.

e. Massaging, stimulating, beautifying, or similar services, of the scalp, face, arms, hands or the upper body.

Any service performed under the definition of “cosmetology” may be performed by hand or mechanical or electrical devices and may include the use of cosmetic preparations, tonics, lotions or creams.

(8) “Cosmetology shop” means any place or part thereof wherein cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology, aesthetics, or any of their practices, are performed for compensation, whether or not the establishment holds itself out as a cosmetology shop.

(9) “Division” means the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation.

(10) “Electrologist” means any person licensed under this chapter who, for a monetary consideration, engages in the removal of superfluous hair by use of specially designed electric needles.

(11) “Instructor” means any person who teaches cosmetology, barbering, electrology or nail technology.

(12) “Master barber” means any person licensed under this chapter who, for a monetary consideration, shaves or trims beards, gives facial or scalp massages, treats beards or scalps with preparations made for this purpose, or embellishes, cleans or beautifies human hair, which includes arranging, dressing, curling, permanent waving, cutting, singeing, pressing, chemically bleaching or coloring, chemically straightening, or similar work.

(13) “Nail technician” means any person licensed under this chapter who engages only in the practice of manicuring, pedicuring or sculpting nails, including acrylic nails, of any person.

(14) “Person” means a corporation, company, association or partnership, as well as an individual.

(15) “Professional-in-charge” means a licensee who is responsible for the operation of a cosmetology shop, including ensuring that all employees are licensed, where required by law.

(16) “School of cosmetology,” “school of electrology,” “school of nail technology,” “school of barbering” means any place or part thereof where cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology or any of the practices are taught, whether or not such place holds itself out as such.

(17) “State” means the State of Delaware.

(18) “Substantially related” means the nature of the criminal conduct, for which the person was convicted, has a direct bearing on the fitness or ability to perform 1 or more of the duties or responsibilities necessarily related to cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology or aesthetics.

69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1;  73 Del. Laws, c. 158, §  1;  74 Del. Laws, c. 262, §  91;  75 Del. Laws, c. 169, §  1;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;  79 Del. Laws, c. 170, §  1;  80 Del. Laws, c. 317, §§ 1, 2;  82 Del. Laws, c. 77, § 1;  83 Del. Laws, c. 76, § 1; 

The Board of Cosmetology and Barbering shall regulate persons performing any of the functions outlined in the duties of a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist, nail technician, aesthetician or instructor.

64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1; 

(a) No person shall engage in the practice of cosmetology, barbering, electrology, or nail technology, or act as an instructor in said professions, or hold himself or herself out to the public as being qualified to practice the same; or use in connection with that person’s name, or otherwise assume or use, any title or description conveying or tending to convey the impression that the person is qualified to practice cosmetology, barbering, electrology, or nail technology, or act as an instructor in said professions, unless such person has been duly licensed under this chapter.

(b) Whenever a license to practice as a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist, or nail technician, or act as an instructor in said professions, has expired or been suspended or revoked, it shall be unlawful for the person to practice cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology, or act as an instructor in said professions.

(c) This chapter shall not be construed to prohibit practice by:

(1) Persons who are licensed to practice cosmetology, barbering, electrology or nail technology in any other state, district or foreign country who, as practicing cosmetologists, barbers, electrologists or nail technicians enter this State to consult with a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist or nail technician of this State. Such consultation shall be limited to less than 30 days in any calendar year.

(2) Any student of an accredited school of cosmetology, barbering, electrology or nail technology who is receiving practical training under the personal supervision of a licensed instructor in cosmetology, barbering, electrology or nail technology.

(3) Any student who is enrolled in a work-study, student-learner, apprenticeship or similar program where the employment is an integral part of the course of study, and the employment is procured and supervised by the Delaware public school system.

(4) Any cosmetologist, barber, electrologist or nail technician, commissioned by any of the armed forces of the United States, or by the United States Public Health Service.

(5) Persons employed to demonstrate, recommend or administer cosmetic preparations, lotions, creams, makeup, perfume or hair appliances or tools intended for home use, for the purposes of effecting retail sales, if those persons neither accept payment from the consumer for that demonstration nor make the demonstration contingent upon the purchase of any product or service.

(6) Persons employed to render cosmetology or hairstyling services in the course of, and incidental to, the business or employers engaged in the theatrical, radio, television or motion picture production industries, modeling or photography.

(7) Persons authorized by the laws of this State to practice medicine and surgery, dentistry, chiropractic and similar occupations, including registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurses’ aides, physical therapists and physical therapy assistants, when acting within the scope of their profession or occupation.

(8) Persons engaged in the practice of hair braiding. Hair braiding does not include hair cutting, application of dyes, reactive chemicals or other preparations to alter the color of the hair or to straighten, curl, or alter the structure of the hair. Hair braiding may involve the use of hair extensions when the extensions are attached only by natural means.

(d) Shop license; necessity. — No person, firm, corporation, partnership or other legal entity shall operate, maintain or use premises for the offering of or rendering of any 1 or more of the services encompassed in the definition of cosmetology without first having secured a shop license from the Board.

(e) Services rendered in unlicensed shop or school; prohibition; exceptions. — No person shall offer or render any of the services encompassed within the definition of cosmetology in a place which is not licensed as a shop or school, except that a practicing licensee, duly licensed pursuant to this chapter, may render the services which that practicing licensee is licensed to offer, as long as the practicing licensee is sponsored by a licensed shop and a record of those services is maintained by that shop, on the following individuals:

(1) Patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other licensed health care facilities;

(2) A decedent in a funeral home;

(3) An invalid or handicapped person in the person’s place of residence;

(4) Inmates or residents of institutions of the Department of Correction or the Department of Human Services;

(5) Performers or models, prior to, in anticipation of, or during a performance; or

(6) Potential consumers of cosmetic preparations, lotions, creams, makeup or perfume which are intended for home use if the application of the product is made for the purposes of effecting a retail sale and the person neither accepts payment from the consumer for the service, nor makes the provision of the service contingent upon the purchase of any product or service.

64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;  80 Del. Laws, c. 317, § 3; 

(a) The Board of Cosmetology and Barbering shall consist of 13 members appointed by the Governor and shall be composed of the following:

(1) Two cosmetologists.

(2) One nail technician.

(3) One barber.

(4) One aesthetician.

(5) One cosmetology instructor.

(6) One owner or operator of a shop licensed under this chapter.

(7) One owner or administrator of a school licensed under this chapter.

(8) Five public members. A public member may not be any of the following:

a. At any time, a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist, nail technician or aesthetician.

b. A member of the immediate family of a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist, nail technician or aesthetician.

c. Employed by a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist, nail technician or aesthetician.

d. At any time have a material or financial interest in the providing of goods or services to a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist, nail technician or aesthetician.

e. At any time engaged in an activity directly related to cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology or aesthetics.

A public member shall be accessible to inquiries, comments and suggestions from the general public.

(b) Each member shall serve for a term of 3 years, and may successively serve for 1 additional term; provided, however, that where a member was initially appointed to fill a vacancy, such member may successively serve for only 1 additional full term. Any person appointed to fill a vacancy on the Board shall hold office for the remainder of the unexpired term of the former member.

(c) A person who has never served on the Board may be appointed to serve on the Board for 2 consecutive terms, but no such person shall thereafter be eligible for 2 consecutive appointments. No person who has been twice appointed to the Board, or who has served on the Board for 6 years within any 9-year period, shall again be appointed to the Board until an interim period of at least 1 term has expired since such person last served.

(d) Any act or vote by a person appointed in violation of subsection (c) of this section shall be invalid. An amendment or revision of this chapter is not sufficient cause for any appointment or attempted appointment in violation of subsection (c) of this section, unless such amendment or revision amends this section to permit such an appointment.

(e) A member of the Board shall be suspended or removed by the Governor for misfeasance, nonfeasance or malfeasance. A member subject to disciplinary proceedings shall be disqualified from Board business until the charge is adjudicated or the matter is otherwise concluded.

(f) Any member who fails to attend 3 consecutive regular business meetings, or who fails to attend at least 1/2 of all regular business meetings during any calendar year, shall automatically upon such occurrence be deemed to have resigned from office and a replacement shall be appointed by the Governor.

(g) No member of the Board of Cosmetology and Barbering, while serving on the Board, shall be a president, chairperson or other official of a professional cosmetology, barbering, nail technology, electrology or aesthetics association.

(h) The provisions set forth in Chapter 58 of Title 29 shall apply to all members of the Board.

(i) Each member of the Board shall be reimbursed for all expenses involved in each meeting, including travel, and in addition shall receive compensation per meeting attended in an amount determined by the Division in accordance with Del. Const. art. III, §  9.

63 Del. Laws, c. 146, §  3;  64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  67 Del. Laws, c. 368, §  26;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1;  72 Del. Laws, c. 177, §  1;  73 Del. Laws, c. 158, §§  2, 3;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;  80 Del. Laws, c. 317, § 4;  81 Del. Laws, c. 85, § 26;  83 Del. Laws, c. 76, § 2; 

(a) In the same month of each year the members shall elect, from among their number, a president, a vice-president and a secretary for 1 year. Each officer shall serve for 1 year, and may successively serve in the same office for 1 additional term. In the event that the president shall leave the Board, the vice-president shall become president and an election shall be held within 90 days of the president’s departure.

(b) The Board shall hold a regularly scheduled business meeting at least once in each quarter of a calendar year, and at such other times as the president deems necessary or at the request of a majority of board members.

(c) A majority of members shall constitute a quorum for the purpose of transacting business. No action shall be taken without the affirmative vote of a majority of the quorum. No disciplinary action shall be taken without the affirmative vote of at least 7 members.

(d) Minutes of all meetings shall be recorded, and copies of the minutes shall be maintained by the Division of Professional Regulation. At any hearing where evidence is presented, such hearing shall be recorded by a court reporter and any stenographic transcript requested shall be at the expense of the party making the request.

63 Del. Laws, c. 146, §  3;  64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  65 Del. Laws, c. 355, §  1;  68 Del. Laws, c. 409, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1; 

(a) The Board of Cosmetology and Barbering shall have the power to:

(1) Formulate rules and regulations, with appropriate notice given. All rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the procedures specified in the Administrative Procedures Act, Chapter 101 of Title 29. Each rule or regulation shall implement or clarify a specific section of this chapter;

(2) Designate and process the application form to be used by all applicants; however, no application form shall require a picture of the applicant, require information relating to citizenship, race, place of birth or length of state residency; nor shall it require personal references;

(3) Designate a written examination, prepared by either a national professional association or by a recognized legitimate national testing service;

(4) Provide for the administration of all examinations, subject to the approval of the Division of Professional Regulation, including notice and information to applicants;

(5) Design and administer practical examinations, subject to the approval of the Division of Professional Regulation, for cosmetology, nail technology, barbering and electrolysis, only;

(6) Grant licenses to, and renew licenses of, all persons who meet the qualifications for licensure and who have paid the appropriate fees as determined by the Division;

(7) Grant temporary licenses to all persons who qualify. Rules and regulations for the issuance of temporary licenses shall be established by the Board;

(8) Refer all complaints from licensees and the public concerning persons licensed by the Board, or concerning practices of the Board or of the profession, to the Division for investigation pursuant to § 8735 of Title 29, and assign a member of the Board to assist the Division in an advisory capacity with the investigation of the technical aspects of the complaint;

(9) Conduct hearings and issue orders in accordance with procedures established pursuant to Chapter 101 of Title 29;

(10) Where it has been determined after a disciplinary hearing that penalties or sanctions should be imposed, to designate and impose the appropriate sanction or penalty;

(11) Bring proceedings in the courts for the enforcement of this chapter;

(12) Take such action outlined in § 5117 of this title with regard to unlicensed practitioners;

(13) Evaluate certified records to determine whether an applicant for licensure who previously has been licensed, certified or registered in another jurisdiction to practice cosmetology, barbering, nail technology and/or electrology has engaged in any act or offense that would be grounds for disciplinary action under this chapter and whether there are disciplinary proceedings or unresolved complaints pending against such applicant for such acts or offenses;

(14) Authorize agents of the Division to inspect any shop or school where cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology or aesthetics services are offered, rendered or taught, or any other place where such services are offered, rendered or taught;

(15) Require continuing education of licensees as established by Board rules and regulations;

(16) Prohibit the use of methyl methacrylate (MMA); and

(17) Establish by rule and regulation advanced training requirements to assure that the licensee meets accepted standards of care for different techniques and services.

(b) The Board of Cosmetology and Barbering shall promulgate regulations specifically identifying those crimes which are substantially related to the practice of cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology or aesthetics.

63 Del. Laws, c. 146, §  3;  64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  71 Del. Laws, c. 380, §  1;  73 Del. Laws, c. 158, §§  4-10;  74 Del. Laws, c. 262, §  92;  75 Del. Laws, c. 169, §  2;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;  79 Del. Laws, c. 170, §  1;  80 Del. Laws, c. 317, § 5; 

(a) All persons applying for a license to practice under this chapter:

(1) Shall have successfully completed an education equivalent to a tenth grade education. Instructors shall have successfully completed an education equivalent to completion of a twelfth grade education. Proof of the required education shall be a certified high school transcript or any other document or affidavit which constitutes reliable proof of educational attainment as determined by the Board.

(2) Shall have passed a written and practical examination to the satisfaction of the Board as set forth in board rules and regulations.

(3) Shall have paid the appropriate fee as established by the Division of Professional Regulation. In addition, except as otherwise provided for in this chapter, no individual shall be permitted to sit for an examination or shall be granted a license to practice in any of the professions regulated by this chapter, unless the individual meets the following education requirements, or has successfully completed an apprenticeship. The requirements are for:

a. Cosmetologists. — The successful completion of a minimum of 1,500 classroom hours of continuous training for a complete course in cosmetology. School owners shall have the option of the amount of hours of training per day and shall be able to choose which days of the week the student works provided the hours accumulated do not exceed 40 hours per week, excluding make-up hours. The Board shall establish by regulation the portion of the 1,500 classroom hours that may be credited to an applicant who previously obtained classroom hours while studying to become an aesthetician, nail technician or electrologist. A cosmetologist may obtain a shaving certification in connection with the cosmetologist’s license upon successful completion of a course in shaving consisting of at least 35 hours of instruction from a licensed barbering instructor.

b. Apprentice cosmetologists. — The completion of 3,000 hours in an apprenticeship to a licensed cosmetologist with the total number of hours worked not to exceed 40 hours per week. The Board shall establish by regulation the portion of the 3,000 apprenticeship hours that may be credited to an applicant who previously obtained apprenticeship hours while studying to become an aesthetician, nail technician or electrologist.

c. Transfer of apprentice hours to a cosmetology program. — An apprentice cosmetologist may transfer up to 1,800 apprentice hours at a rate of 2 apprentice hours to 1 transfer hour to a cosmetology program totaling 1,500 hours. A minimum of 600 hours of course work must be completed at school. The Board must provide documentation of the apprentice hours to the school prior to transfer.

d. Master barbers. — For a licensed barber, the successful completion of an additional 600 hour apprenticeship for chemicals, as set forth in the Board’s rules and regulations, and the passing of the master barber’s examination.

For all other applicants, the successful completion of a minimum of 1,500 classroom hours of continuous training for a complete course in master barbering and the passing of the master barber’s examination, or the completion of 3,000 hours in a master barber apprenticeship, as set forth in the Board’s rules and regulations, and the passing of the master barber’s examination. School owners shall have the option of the amount of hours of training per day and shall be able to choose which days of the week the student works provided the hours accumulated do not exceed 40 hours per week, excluding make-up hours. Any barber who was issued a barber’s license by the Division prior to April 28, 2008, shall be deemed a master barber. A master barber may obtain a skin and nails certification in connection with a master barber’s license upon completion of at least 250 hours of instruction in a licensed cosmetology school or a 500 hour apprenticeship in skin and nails in accordance with the Board’s rules and regulations.

e. Barbers. — The successful completion of a minimum of 1,250 classroom hours of continuous training for a complete course in barbering, or the completion of 3,000 hours in an apprenticeship to a licensed barber with the total number of hours worked not to exceed 40 hours per week.

f. Transfer of apprentice hours to a barbering program. — An apprentice barber may transfer up to 1,800 apprentice hours at a rate of 2 apprentice hours to 1 transfer hour to a barbering program totaling 1,500 hours. A minimum of 600 hours of course work must be completed at school. The Board must provide documentation of the apprentice hours to the school prior to transfer.

g. Nail technicians. — The successful completion of a course of training in nail technology of not less than 300 hours in a school of nail technology or cosmetology; or successful completion of 600 hours as an apprentice under the supervision of a licensed nail technician. In either case, training is not to exceed 40 hours per week, excluding make-up hours.

h. Electrologists. — The successful completion of a course of training in electrology of not less than 300 hours in a school of electrology or cosmetology, or successful completion of 600 hours as an apprentice under the supervision of a licensed electrologist. In either case, training is not to exceed 40 hours per week, excluding make-up hours.

i. [Repealed.]

j. Cosmetology and barbering instructors. — For cosmetology and barbering, an instructor must have a license in the respective field of cosmetology or barbering and the successful completion of a teacher training course, consisting of at least 500 hours of instruction in a registered school of cosmetology or barbering, or at least 2 years’ experience as an active licensed, practicing cosmetologist or barber, supplemented by at least 250 hours of instruction in a teacher training course. In addition, the applicant shall have successfully passed an instructor examination designated by the Board in its rules and regulations. A person licensed as a cosmetology instructor may also provide instruction in nail technology and aesthetics. A person licensed as a cosmetology instructor may obtain a certification to instruct barbering upon successful completion of a course in shaving consisting of at least 35 hours of instruction from a licensed barbering instructor.

k. Electrology instructor. — An instructor must have a license in electrology and the successful completion of a teacher training course, consisting of at least 500 hours of instruction in a registered school of electrology or cosmetology; or at least 2 years’ experience as an active licensed, practicing electrologist, supplemented by at least 250 hours’ instruction in a teacher training course. In addition, the applicant shall have successfully passed an examination designated by the Board in its rules and regulations.

l. Nail technician instructor. — An instructor must have a license in nail technology and the successful completion of a teacher training course, consisting of at least 500 hours of instruction in a registered school of cosmetology or nail technology; or at least 2 years’ experience as an active licensed, practicing nail technician, supplemented by at least 250 hours of instruction in a teacher training course. Proof of education or experience shall be provided to the satisfaction of the Board. In addition, the applicant shall have successfully passed an examination designated by the Board in its rules and regulations.

(4) Shall not have been the recipient of any administrative penalties regarding that person’s licensed practice, including but not limited to fines, formal reprimands, license suspensions or revocation (except for license revocations for nonpayment of license renewal fees), probationary limitations, and/or have not entered into any agreements which contain conditions placed by a board on that person’s professional conduct and practice, including any voluntary surrender of a license. The Board may, after a hearing, determine whether such administrative penalty is grounds to deny licensure;

(5) Shall not have any impairment related to drugs or alcohol that would limit the applicant’s ability to undertake that applicant’s licensed practice in a manner consistent with the safety of the public;

(6) Shall not have been convicted of a crime substantially related to the practice of cosmetology, barbering, electrology or nail technology, unless the applicant was previously so licensed or was enrolled in a training program to be so licensed while an offender under the supervision of the Department of Correction prior to July 10, 2001. In determining whether a crime is substantially related to the professions regulated by this chapter, the Board shall follow the restrictions set forth under § 8735(x)(4) of Title 29. If after consideration of the factors set forth under § 8735(x)(3) of Title 29 through a hearing or review of documentation the Board determines that granting a waiver would not create an unreasonable risk to public safety, the Board, by an affirmative vote of a majority of the quorum, or during the time period between Board meetings, the Board President or the President’s designee, shall waive this paragraph (a)(6).

a.-d. [Repealed.]

(7) Shall not have a pending criminal charge relating to an offense that is substantially related to the practice of cosmetology, barbering, electrology or nail technology. Applicants who have criminal conviction records or pending criminal charges shall require appropriate authorities to provide information about the record or charge directly to the Board in sufficient specificity to enable the Board to make a determination under § 8735(x)(3) of Title 29 whether a waiver is required.

(8) Shall not have any disciplinary proceedings or unresolved complaints pending against that person in any jurisdiction where the applicant previously has been, or currently is, licensed to practice cosmetology, barbering, electrology or nail technology.

(b) As set forth in board rules and regulations, foreign-trained applicants shall provide evidence satisfactory to the Board of training equivalent to that required in paragraph (a)(3) of this section, in addition to meeting all other requirements of this section.

(c) When a person who feels the Board has refused or rejected an application without justification; has imposed higher or different conditions for the person than for other applicants or persons now licensed; or has in some other manner contributed to or caused the failure of such person’s application, the applicant may appeal to Superior Court.

(d) Where the Board has found to its satisfaction that an application has been intentionally fraudulent, or that false information has been intentionally supplied, it shall report its findings to the Attorney General for further action.

64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1;  73 Del. Laws, c. 158, §§  11-13;  74 Del. Laws, c. 150, §§  1, 2;  75 Del. Laws, c. 169, §  3;  75 Del. Laws, c. 436, §  49;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;  77 Del. Laws, c. 199, §  37;  78 Del. Laws, c. 44, §§  72, 73;  79 Del. Laws, c. 170, §  1;  79 Del. Laws, c. 418, §  1;  81 Del. Laws, c. 214, § 1;  82 Del. Laws, c. 77, § 2;  83 Del. Laws, c. 76, § 3;  83 Del. Laws, c. 433, § 31; 

(a) There shall be separate written and practical examinations for licensure for barbering, cosmetology, nail technology, electrology and aesthetics which shall be professionally developed and used on a national basis. Each of these examinations shall be offered at least semi-annually. If the required written or practical examination cannot be procured from a professional testing service, the Board may develop the written or practical examination subject to the approval of the Division of Professional Regulation.

(b) No Board member or designee of the Board may administer a practical examination to any student from an educational institution or commercial establishment where the Board member or designee of the Board is employed or has a fiduciary interest therein.

(c) Examination services shall be contracted and approved by the Division of Professional Regulation. Grading will be performed by the contracted testing service where professionally developed examinations are used. All scoring for practical examinations shall be approved by the Division of Professional Regulation.

(d) The Board, in its rules and regulations, shall determine the number of times that an applicant may retake the examination.

64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 430, §  2;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1; 

(a) Upon payment of the appropriate fee and submission and acceptance of a written application on forms provided by the Board, the Board shall grant a license to each applicant who shall present proof of current licensure in good standing in another state, the District of Columbia, or territory of the United States whose standards for licensure are substantially similar to those of this State. An individual with a license from a state with less stringent requirements than those of this State may obtain a license through reciprocity if the individual can prove to the satisfaction of the Board that the individual has worked in another jurisdiction or jurisdictions in the field for which the individual is seeking a license in Delaware for a period of 1 continuous year out of the last 5 years immediately preceding application in this State. The 1 continuous year must be work experience obtained while the individual was holding a license in the same field for which the individual is seeking a license. All applicants shall submit evidence verified by oath that, in all states in which the applicant is or was licensed, the applicant’s license is in good standing as defined in § 5107(a)(4), (5), (6), (7) and (8) of this title.

(b) An applicant who took the applicable written examination in a language other than the English language shall demonstrate the ability to communicate in the English language as determined by board rules and regulations.

64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1;  73 Del. Laws, c. 158, §  14;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;  79 Del. Laws, c. 170, §  1;  80 Del. Laws, c. 135, §  1;  82 Del. Laws, c. 77, § 3; 

The amount to be charged for each fee imposed under this chapter shall approximate and reasonably reflect all costs necessary to defray the expenses of the Board, as well as the proportional expenses incurred by the Division of Professional Regulation in its services on behalf of the Board. There shall be a separate fee charged for each service or activity; but no fee shall be charged for an activity not specified in this chapter. The application fee shall not be combined with any other fee or charge. At the beginning of each licensure biennium, the Division, or any other state agency acting on its behalf, shall compute, for each separate service or activity, the appropriate Board fees for the licensure biennium.

64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  65 Del. Laws, c. 355, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  73 Del. Laws, c. 158, §  15;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1; 

(a) Each person who has passed the examinations required by this chapter, who has been admitted to practice in this State by reciprocity, or who has otherwise qualified for a license shall, prior to receiving such license, file for and obtain an occupational license from the Division of Revenue, if required, in accordance with Chapter 23 of Title 30. The Board shall issue a license to each person who has qualified for same under this chapter. A duplicate license shall be issued to a practitioner licensed under this chapter upon payment of a fee established by the Division of Professional Regulation. The license shall be clearly marked “DUPLICATE.”

(b) Each license shall be renewed biennially, in such manner as is determined by the Division, and upon payment of the appropriate fee, and proof that the licensee has met any continuing education requirements established by the Board. A licensee who has allowed that licensee’s license to lapse for less than 5 years may renew such lapsed license upon payment of a late fee established by the Division, and proof that the licensee has met any continuing education requirements established by the Board. A licensee who has allowed that licensee’s license to lapse for longer than 5 years may reinstate such license by taking and passing the practical examination for the profession for which the licensee is seeking reinstatement.

(1)-(4) [Repealed.]

(c) A shop or school that allows its license to lapse has 45 days from the expiration date to apply for reinstatement. After that time, any shop or school must reapply.

(d) A former licensee whose license has been revoked shall apply for a new license, successfully complete all examinations, and pay all appropriate fees before the person may be licensed.

64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  64 Del. Laws, c. 144, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1;  73 Del. Laws, c. 158, §  16;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;  79 Del. Laws, c. 170, §  1;  82 Del. Laws, c. 77, § 4; 

(a) All complaints shall be received and investigated by the Division in accordance with § 8735 of Title 29, and the Division shall be responsible for issuing a final written report at the conclusion of its investigation. Investigators of the Division may enter any nail salon, beauty salon, barbershop or aesthetics shop in furtherance of their investigation. Upon a determination that an individual is practicing cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology or aesthetics without a license, the investigator shall request that a Justice of the Peace Court issue a summons for a violation of § 5117(b) or (c) of this title, as applicable. The investigator or the Attorney General or their designee, or any other person authorized by law, shall prosecute the matter. A copy of the investigator’s report, including the summons and complaint, shall be sent to the Board. A condition of bond shall be that the accused shall not practice the regulated conduct without first obtaining a license from the Division, and any violations of bond shall be treated as criminal contempt, pursuant to § 1271(3) of Title 11.

(b) Those complaints involving unsanitary conditions or other conditions in any nail salon, cosmetology or beauty salon, barber shop, electrology salon or aesthetics shop which may harm the health of those receiving the services outlined in this chapter shall be investigated by the Division of Public Health.

64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  65 Del. Laws, c. 355, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  71 Del. Laws, c. 299, §  1;  73 Del. Laws, c. 158, §§  17, 18;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1; 

(a) Practitioners regulated under this chapter shall be subject to those disciplinary actions set forth in § 5114 of this title if, after a hearing, the Board finds that the practitioner has:

(1) Employed or knowingly cooperated in fraud or material deception in order to acquire or renew a license to practice cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology or aesthetics; or impersonated another person holding a license, or has allowed another person to use that licensee’s license;

(2) Been incompetent or negligent in the practice of cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology or aesthetics;

(3) Excessively used or abused drugs either in the past 2 years or currently; excessive use or abuse of drugs shall mean any use of narcotics, controlled substances or illegal drugs without a prescription from a licensed physician, or the abuse of alcoholic beverage such that it impairs the practitioner’s ability to perform the work of a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist, nail technician or aesthetician;

(4) Been convicted of a crime that is substantially related to the practice of cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology or aesthetics;

(5) As a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist, nail technician or aesthetician, or otherwise in the practice of the profession, knowingly engaged in an act of consumer fraud or deception, engaged in the restraint of competition, or participated in price-fixing activities;

(6) Violated a lawful provision of this chapter, or any lawful regulation established thereunder;

(7) Knowingly employed or cooperated in the hiring or contracting for the services of, or, as the owner or operator of a beauty salon or aesthetics shop, leased space or otherwise entered into a contractual relationship with, any unlicensed person or persons required by this chapter to hold an unrestricted license to practice any of the professions regulated by this chapter;

(8) Violated a standard or regulation adopted by the Department of Health and Social Services for public health assurance in the practice of cosmetology and barbering or in the operation of beauty salons, aesthetics shops and schools of cosmetology, electrology, nail technology, barbering and aesthetics;

(9) Had that practitioner’s own license as a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist, nail technician or aesthetician suspended or revoked, or other disciplinary action taken by the appropriate licensing authority in another jurisdiction; provided, however, that the underlying grounds for such action in another jurisdiction have been presented to the Board by certified record; and provided that the Board has determined that the facts found by the appropriate authority in the other jurisdiction constitute 1 or more of the acts defined in this chapter. Each person licensed as a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist, nail technician or aesthetician in this State shall be deemed to have given consent to release of this information by the board of cosmetology and barbering, or other comparable agencies, in another jurisdiction and to waive all objections to the admissibility of previously adjudicated evidence of such acts or offenses;

(10) Failed to notify the Board that the person’s license as a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist, nail technician or aesthetician in another state has been subject to discipline, or has been surrendered, suspended or revoked. A certified copy of the record of disciplinary action, surrender, suspension or revocation shall be conclusive evidence thereof.

(b) Subject to subchapter IV of Chapter 101 of Title 29, no license shall be restricted, suspended or revoked by the Board, and no practitioner’s rights to practice shall be limited by the Board, until such practitioner has been given notice, and an opportunity to be heard in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act (Chapter 101 of Title 29).

64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1;  71 Del. Laws, c. 441, §  2;  73 Del. Laws, c. 158, §§  19-23;  74 Del. Laws, c. 262, §  93;  75 Del. Laws, c. 169, §§  4, 5;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1; 

(a) The Board may impose any of the following sanctions, singly or in combination, when it finds that 1 of the conditions or violations set forth in § 5113 of this title applies to a practitioner regulated by this chapter:

(1) Issue a letter of reprimand;

(2) Impose a civil penalty not to exceed $500 for each violation of this chapter;

(3) Place a practitioner on probationary status, and require the practitioner to:

a. Report regularly to the Board upon the matters which are the basis of the probation;

b. Limit all practice and professional activities to those areas prescribed by the Board;

(4) Suspend any practitioner’s license;

(5) Revoke a practitioner’s license;

(6) Permanently revoke a practitioner’s license.

(b) The Board may withdraw or reduce conditions of probation when it finds that the deficiencies which required such action have been remedied.

(c) As a condition of reinstatement of a suspended license, or removal from probationary status, the Board may impose such disciplinary or corrective measures as are authorized under this chapter.

64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;  79 Del. Laws, c. 170, §  1; 

In the event of a formal or informal complaint concerning the activity of a licensee that presents a clear and immediate danger to the public health, safety or welfare, the Board may temporarily suspend the person’s license, pending a hearing, upon the written order of the Secretary of State or the Secretary’s designee, with the concurrence of the Board chair or the Board chair’s designee. An order temporarily suspending a license may not be issued unless the person or the person’s attorney received at least 24 hours’ written or oral notice before the temporary suspension so that the person or the person’s attorney may file a written response to the proposed suspension. The decision as to whether to issue the temporary order of suspension will be decided on the written submissions. An order of temporary suspension pending a hearing may remain in effect for no longer than 60 days from the date of the issuance of the order unless the temporarily suspended person requests a continuance of the hearing date. If the temporarily suspended person requests a continuance, the order of temporary suspension remains in effect until the hearing is convened and a decision is rendered by the Board. A person whose license has been temporarily suspended pursuant to this section may request an expedited hearing. The Board shall schedule the hearing on an expedited basis, provided that the Board receives the request within 5 calendar days from the date on which the person received notification of the decision to temporarily suspend the person’s license.

77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;  79 Del. Laws, c. 213, §  2; 

(a) If a complaint is filed with the Board pursuant to § 8735 of Title 29, alleging a violation of § 5113 of this title, the Board shall set a time and place to conduct a hearing on the complaint. Notice of the hearing shall be given and the hearing shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 101 of Title 29.

(b) All hearings shall be informal without use of rules of evidence. If the Board finds, by a majority vote of all members, that the complaint has merit, the Board shall take such action permitted under this chapter as it deems necessary. The Board’s decision shall be in writing and shall include its reasons for such decision. A copy of the decision shall be mailed immediately to the practitioner.

(c) Where the practitioner is in disagreement with the action of the Board, the practitioner may appeal the Board’s decision to the Superior Court within 30 days of the day the notice of decision was mailed. Upon such appeal the Court shall hear the evidence on the record. Board action shall not be stayed upon appeal unless so ordered by the Superior Court.

64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1;  71 Del. Laws, c. 441, §  3;  73 Del. Laws, c. 158, §§  24-26;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1; 

(a) Where the Board has placed a practitioner on probationary status under certain restrictions or conditions, and the Board has determined that such restrictions or conditions are being or have been violated by the practitioner, it may, after a hearing on the matter, suspend or revoke the practitioner’s license.

(b) Where a person not currently licensed as a cosmetologist, barber, electrologist, nail technician, aesthetician or instructor, in any of the professions for which a license is required, is convicted of unlawfully practicing cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology or aesthetics in violation of this chapter, such offender shall, upon the first offense, be fined not less than $100 nor more than $500, and shall pay all costs; provided, however, that where it is alleged that such violation has resulted in injury to any person, the offender shall be charged and tried under the applicable provision or provisions of Title 11.

(c) Where a person previously convicted of unlawfully practicing cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology, or aesthetics or instructing in any of the professions for which a license is required under this chapter, is convicted a second or subsequent time of such offense, the fine assessed against such person shall be not less than $500 nor more than $1,000 for each subsequent offense thereafter.

(d) Where a person in violation of this section unlawfully practiced cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology or aesthetics or instruction of these professions, the shop or school owner and/or manager shall, upon the first offense, be fined not less than $500 nor more than $1000, and shall pay all costs. Upon the second offense and each offense thereafter, the shop or school owner and/or manager shall be fined not less than $1000 nor more than $1500.

64 Del. Laws, c. 8, §  1;  69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1;  71 Del. Laws, c. 299, §  2;  72 Del. Laws, c. 176, §§  1, 2;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1; 

(a) All cosmetology shops must be licensed pursuant to this chapter. Applications for licensure shall be submitted on a form prescribed by the Board, together with the required fees set biennially by the Division of Professional Regulation.

(b) An application for shop licensure shall identify the professional-in-charge and shall include notarized acknowledgement by the person identified as the professional-in-charge. At all times, the professional-in-charge shall be licensed pursuant to this chapter and shall hold a license in good standing as defined in § 5107(a)(4)-(8) of this title. A licensee may serve as professional-in-charge for only 1 shop at any given time. The Board shall be notified in writing of any change in the professional-in-charge within 10 business days of such change.

(c) All cosmetology shops shall renew their licensure biennially, paying fees set by the Division of Professional Regulation. All cosmetology shops shall fully comply with all the rules and regulations promulgated by the Board as provided for in this chapter. Nothing contained in this chapter shall prevent a person from operating a licensed cosmetology shop in the person’s home, provided there is full compliance with all applicable health regulations and this chapter.

(d) No cosmetology shop shall accept an apprentice unless said salon or shop shall have on its staff at least 1 individual licensed in the profession for which instruction is being provided; further, that such salon or shop may register 2 additional apprentices for each additional licensed professional attached to its staff. In addition, such salon or shop shall possess the necessary apparatus and equipment for the proper instruction in all subjects for the practices for which a license is required under this chapter; and shall maintain a daily record of the attendance of such apprentice or apprentices, together with the number of hours of apprenticeship; and shall certify to the Board upon termination of such apprenticeship the credits earned. Such instruction shall consist of the necessary training for a complete course comprising all, or the majority, of the practices of cosmetology, barbering, nail technology and electrology as provided in this chapter; and such course shall include theoretical studies and practical demonstrations in sanitation, sterilization and other safety measures, and the use of antiseptics, cosmetics and electrical appliances, consistent with the practical and theoretical requirements as applicable to cosmetology, barbering, nail technology and electrology as provided for in this chapter.

(e) Any person, firm or corporation teaching any or all of the practices of cosmetology, including barbering, nail technology and electrology, shall be required to comply with all provisions applicable to establishments having apprentices; and any and all rules which may be promulgated by the Board established in accordance with this chapter. No school of cosmetology, barbering, nail technology or electrology or beauty salon, barbershop, nail salon or electrology establishment, shall operate within this State unless a proper license under this chapter has first been obtained. The practice of cosmetology and other professions regulated by this chapter shall not be taught or practiced in this State; except in a duly licensed establishment except as provided for elsewhere in this chapter.

(f) Nothing contained in this chapter shall affect the instructional program of cosmetology as conducted in the public schools of this State. Any student, who has successfully completed the prescribed course in cosmetology in a state public school, shall be eligible to take the examinations required by this chapter.

69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1;  73 Del. Laws, c. 158, §  27;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;  79 Del. Laws, c. 170, §  1;  79 Del. Laws, c. 418, §  2; 

(a) Each school of barbering, cosmetology, electrology or nail technology shall be licensed pursuant to this chapter and shall comply with the requirements of the Delaware Department of Education. Each school shall employ at least 1 instructor for the first 25 students enrolled, and 1 additional instructor for each additional 25 students enrolled. Each school shall possess apparatus and equipment sufficient for the proper and full teaching of all subjects of its curriculum; shall keep a daily record of the attendance of each student; maintain regular class and instruction hours; establish grades and hold examinations before issuance of diplomas. Each school shall require training for a complete course comprising all, or the majority, of the practices regulated under this chapter, as provided in this chapter, together with the minimum number of hours therein prescribed, and shall include practical demonstrations and theoretical studies, and study in sanitation, sterilization, other safety measures, and the use of antiseptics, cosmetics and electrical appliances, consistent with the practical and theoretical requirements as applicable to any practice for which a license is required under this chapter, as provided in this chapter.

(b) An instructor shall decide when a student of any of the practices for which a license or certification is required under this chapter, is sufficiently competent to perform those services for the public.

(c) Each school for a profession regulated by this chapter shall display, in a conspicuous place within the clinic area of the school, a sign which shall read as follows:

“ALL SERVICES IN THIS SCHOOL PERFORMED BY STUDENTS WHO ARE IN TRAINING.”

(d) Each school licensed under this chapter shall afford to its students the full course of instruction required under this chapter, in default of which a proportionate amount of the tuition paid by the student shall be refunded.

(e) Each school licensed under this chapter, but not yet accredited pursuant to subsection (h) of this section, shall maintain the following records for each student:

(1) Daily attendance records;

(2) Scholastic records; and

(3) Financial records.

A school shall submit to the Board a notarized quarterly report on a form approved by the Board. The report shall be submitted by the following dates: April 15, July 15, October 15 and January 15 — and shall include the names and license numbers of the teachers employed and be personally signed by the owner and supervisor of the school. The school may charge the student a fee that covers the reasonable cost of making copies of the records. A school shall retain records of student attendance and scholastic records for a minimum of 5 years. A school that discontinues operation shall comply with Delaware Department of Education requirements with respect to the disposition of student records.

(f) A school that enrolls a transfer student from another cosmetology school shall obtain for that student:

(1) A notarized transcript from the original school listing the hours earned by the student in the required curriculum areas; and

(2) Verification from the appropriate licensing authority that the original school is licensed in that state, in the case of a student transferring from an out-of-state school to a school in Delaware.

(g) Failure to comply with any of the requirements applicable to a school constitutes grounds for immediate revocation of the school’s license.

(h) Within 1 year after being licensed by the Board, a school shall submit to the Board proof that it has applied for accreditation with a nationally recognized accrediting agency approved by the Board. Within 3 years after being licensed by the Board, a school shall submit to the Board proof that it is accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency. A school that has been continually licensed and in good standing for more than 5 years prior to June 26, 2010, is exempted from this requirement. A school that has been continually licensed in good standing by the Board for less than 5 years prior to June 26, 2010, shall submit proof of accreditation by a nationally recognized accrediting agency before 5 years after June 26, 2010.

69 Del. Laws, c. 178, §  1;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1; 

73 Del. Laws, c. 158, §  33;  77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;  repealed by 82 Del. Laws, c. 8, § 19, effective Apr. 9, 2019.; 

(a) An individual who chooses to seek eligibility for the cosmetologist, barbering, electrology or nail technician examination by apprenticeship shall apply to the Board for an apprentice permit.

(b) The owner of a shop that employs apprentices shall submit to the Board, on a form provided by the Board, a quarterly report of the hours earned by each apprentice. The reports shall be submitted by the following dates: April 15, July 15, October 15, and January 15.

(c) [Repealed.]

(d) An apprentice may not be the employer of the supervising licensee.

77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1;  79 Del. Laws, c. 170, §  1;  82 Del. Laws, c. 8, § 19; 

(a) An agent of the Division may enter and inspect during business hours, without prior notice, any shop or school where cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology or aesthetics services are offered, rendered or taught, or any other place where such services are offered, rendered or taught.

(b) An agent of the Division acting pursuant to subsection (a) of this section: may inspect and copy records required to be kept by this chapter; may inspect within reasonable limits and in a reasonable manner the premises and all pertinent equipment; and may inspect other things therein, including records, files, papers and facilities relating to violation of this chapter.

(c) All information gathered under this section shall be kept confidential in accordance with all federal and state laws regarding privacy.

77 Del. Laws, c. 65, §  1;