California · Business and Professions Code - BPC

BPC §7317: Except as provided in this article, it is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to engage in barbering, cosmetology, or electrolysis for compensation without a valid, unexpired license issued

Misdemeanor

What this law says, in plain English

It is unlawful to practice barbering, cosmetology, or electrolysis for compensation without a valid license from the board, or to operate an unlicensed establishment. Violations are subject to administrative fines and may result in misdemeanor charges.

Read the full statutory text

Except as provided in this article, it is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to engage in barbering, cosmetology, or electrolysis for compensation without a valid, unexpired license issued by the board, unless the person is participating in an externship program from an approved school, or in an establishment or mobile unit other than one licensed by the board, or conduct or operate an establishment, or any other place of business in which barbering, cosmetology, or electrolysis is practiced unless licensed under this chapter. Persons licensed under this chapter shall limit their practice and services rendered to the public to only those areas for which they are licensed. Any violation of this section is subject to an administrative fine and may be subject to a misdemeanor.

Verify at the official source: California legislative text

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This page is legal information, not legal advice. Code text is sourced from official publications and may lag amendments — always confirm at the official source linked above. Plain-English summaries and relationship data are AI-derived and reviewed on an ongoing basis; verify with a licensed attorney before acting.