When should a misplaced, lost, or destroyed cosmetology license be replaced?

A misplaced, lost, or destroyed cosmetology license should be replaced prior to practicing after the license is discovered to be missing. It is essential for practitioners to have a valid license before providing services to clients, as practicing without a proper license can lead to legal issues, penalties, and potential harm to clients who might receive services from an unlicensed individual.

While one might think of replacing the license immediately upon realization of the loss, the critical aspect is to ensure that practitioners do not engage in any professional activities until the license is reinstated or replaced. This requirement ensures that all estheticians are operating within the legal boundaries and maintaining industry standards.

The focus on timing in this context emphasizes the responsibility of professionals to uphold the laws governing cosmetology practice, making it clear that the priority must be on obtaining a valid license before offering any services to clients.