Question 1

Why should I get licensed instead of just braiding without one?

Accepted Answer

In Illinois, braiding hair professionally without a license is illegal and can result in fines and penalties from IDFPR. But beyond legal protection, a license opens doors that unlicensed work simply cannot. You can work in a licensed salon, rent a booth, open your own studio, and build a business that clients trust. Many clients specifically seek out licensed braiders. Your license is not just a piece of paper. It is the foundation of a legitimate, sustainable career. LYS School exists to help you get there.

Question 2

Is getting a Hair Braiding License actually worth it?

Accepted Answer

For most people, yes -- and here is why. A Hair Braiding License gives you legal authorization to charge professionally for your services anywhere in Illinois. Without it, you are limited in where you can work and exposed to potential IDFPR penalties. With it, you can work in a salon, rent a booth, go mobile, or open your own studio. The program costs $2,325. Many of our graduates recoup that investment within their first few months of working professionally. Beyond income, the license gives you credibility with clients, access to professional spaces, and a foundation to build a real business on. LYS graduates have gone on to open their own studios, build loyal client bases, and create sustainable careers in the natural hair industry. The question is not really whether it is worth it -- it is whether now is the right time for you. Contact us any time and we will help you think it through.

Question 3

What are the requirements to get a Hair Braiding License in Illinois?

Accepted Answer

To receive a Hair Braiding License in Illinois you must be at least 16 years old, file an application with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), pay the required state fees, and complete a minimum of 300 hours of training at a licensed hair braiding school. Those 300 hours must include at least 100 hours of theory instruction and 200 hours of hands-on practical training. LYS School is licensed by IDFPR to provide this exact program and our curriculum meets all state requirements. You can start any time through open enrollment.

Question 4

Do I need to pass a state board exam to get my license?

Accepted Answer

Illinois does not currently require a state board exam to receive a Hair Braiding License. Once you complete your 300 hours and LYS School submits your completion documentation to IDFPR, you apply for your license directly through the IDFPR online portal. LYS guides you through that application process as you approach graduation.

Question 5

How is the 300-hour requirement structured?

Accepted Answer

Illinois requires a minimum of 100 hours of theory instruction and 200 hours of hands-on practical training. At LYS School your theory hours cover natural hair foundations, client care and consultation, safety and sanitation, and business and salon readiness. Your practical hours are spent working with real clients in our student salon under the direct supervision of a licensed instructor. You do not just practice on mannequins. You graduate with actual client experience and a real portfolio.

Question 6

Do I need prior braiding experience to enroll?

Accepted Answer

None at all. LYS School trains students from complete beginners to experienced braiders who want to become officially licensed. What matters is that you are ready to commit to the training hours. If you already know how to braid, the program will sharpen your technique and add the business and theory knowledge that turns skill into a career.

Question 7

What can I do with a Hair Braiding License in Illinois?

Accepted Answer

With your Illinois Hair Braiding License you can legally braid hair professionally anywhere in the state. That includes working in a salon, renting a booth, operating a mobile business, or opening your own studio. The license covers all natural hair care including braids, twists, locs, and protective styles. Many LYS graduates have gone on to build their own client books, open salons, and create lasting careers in the natural hair industry.

Question 8

What do I actually walk away with when I finish?

Accepted Answer

You receive a diploma of graduation from LYS School documenting your completed 300 hours of training. LYS then submits your completion to IDFPR. You apply for your Illinois Hair Braiding License through the IDFPR online portal -- LYS guides you through this process. IDFPR will send you instructions to electronically access your license. Illinois no longer mails physical licenses. Once issued, your license is valid statewide and publicly verifiable through IDFPR's license lookup. You are legally authorized to braid hair professionally anywhere in Illinois.

Question 9

What happens after I finish the program? How do I actually get my license?

Accepted Answer

Once you complete your 300 hours, pass your assessments, and satisfy all financial obligations, LYS School submits your completion documentation to IDFPR. You then complete and submit your license application through the IDFPR online portal -- LYS guides you through this process. After you submit, IDFPR will send you instructions to electronically access your license. Illinois no longer mails physical licenses. Processing times are determined by IDFPR and vary by applicant, but the process has become significantly faster since moving online. LYS School is with you through the entire process from your first day to your license in hand.

Question 10

What makes LYS School different from other hair braiding schools?

Accepted Answer

A few things genuinely stand out. LYS is a small school -- you are not a number here. Yolande teaches and mentors students personally, and the small class environment means you get real attention and real feedback on your technique. Your practical hours are spent on real clients in our student salon, not just mannequins -- you graduate with actual client experience. The school is open seven days a week and you build your own schedule around your life, not the other way around. We have been doing this for over ten years and have helped 200+ students get licensed. And we offer open enrollment -- no waiting for the next term, no seat that expires. When you are ready, we are ready.

Question 11

How do I enroll? What do I need to get started?

Accepted Answer

Getting started at LYS involves a few steps. You will complete an application for admission and an enrollment agreement, pay your first-day deposit, and work with admissions to determine your schedule and start date. Because LYS operates on open enrollment, there is no deadline -- when you are ready we will work around your timeline. The licensure requirements (age, high school diploma or equivalent, and 300 hours of training) are what you need to meet by the time you graduate, not necessarily before day one. Contact us to get the process started and we will walk you through everything.

Question 12

How much does the Hair Braiding License program cost?

Accepted Answer

The total required fees for the 300-hour Hair Braiding License program are $2,325. This includes application, registration, and technology fees. A mannequin and basic tools ($50 to $200) are required separately. If you pay in full at enrollment there is no additional setup fee. Payment plans are available -- use our tuition calculator to see the numbers for your situation. You do not have to pay everything upfront.

Question 13

How much money do I need to start?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your payment option. Pay in full: Your full balance of $2,325 is due at enrollment. No setup fee applies. This is the most straightforward option. In-house payment plan: A payment plan setup fee of 8.5% applies to required fees ($2,325), which comes to approximately $198. This fee is rolled into your balance and not collected upfront. Your first-day deposit is $300, payable by Cash or Zelle. Full balance is due before you complete the program, ideally by the time you reach 200 credited hours. Buy Now Pay Later (Klarna, Affirm, Afterpay): The same 8.5% payment plan setup fee applies, approximately $198, and is collected upfront at enrollment. Your first-day deposit is also approximately $198, payable by Cash or Zelle. Repayment terms are then set by your chosen provider. WIOA funding: May cover 100% of tuition for eligible students. Contact admissions to discuss your eligibility before enrolling.

Question 14

What is the refund policy?

Accepted Answer

LYS School follows the Illinois state-mandated refund schedule. Cancel within five business days of signing your enrollment agreement: full refund of all fees paid. Cancel after five days but before your first day of class: the school may retain up to $100 in application and registration fees. After your first day of class, refunds are calculated based on the percentage of the program you have completed: Less than 5% completed -- school retains 10% of tuition. 5% to 9.9% -- 30%. 10% to 14.9% -- 40%. 15% to 24.9% -- 45%. 25% to 49.9% -- 70%. 50% or more -- no refund of tuition. All refunds are processed within 45 calendar days of your written notice of cancellation. Speak with admissions before enrolling for full details.

Question 15

Do you accept financial aid or FAFSA?

Accepted Answer

LYS School does not participate in federal financial aid or FAFSA programs. However, WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) funding may cover 100% of tuition for eligible students -- this is a real option worth exploring before you enroll. We also offer flexible in-house payment plans. Contact us and we will help you understand your options.

Question 16

Do you offer Buy Now Pay Later options?

Accepted Answer

Yes. LYS School accepts Klarna, Affirm, Afterpay. A payment plan setup fee of 8.5% on required program fees applies and is collected at enrollment, approximately $198. Your first-day deposit is also approximately $198, payable by Cash or Zelle. Repayment terms are set by your chosen provider. Contact us to discuss this option before enrolling.

Question 17

What payment methods do you accept for tuition?

Accepted Answer

We accept cash and Zelle for tuition and deposit payments. For payment plans, we also accept Klarna, Affirm, and Afterpay through our Buy Now Pay Later option.

Question 18

How long does it take to complete the program?

Accepted Answer

The Hair Braiding License program is 300 hours total. Full-time students completing at least 30 hours per week finish in approximately 10 to 12 weeks. Part-time students finish in approximately 25 weeks. Because you choose your own schedule and we offer open enrollment, your timeline is largely up to you. Most of our students are working adults and parents -- the program is built around that reality.

Question 19

How flexible is the schedule really?

Accepted Answer

Very flexible -- and this is one of the things that genuinely sets LYS School apart. The school is open Monday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. You choose which days you come in. There are no assigned class days, no mandatory attendance times, and no cohort you need to keep pace with. You build your attendance plan around your life -- your job, your family, your other commitments. If your schedule looks different week to week, your time at LYS can reflect that. Weekend-only enrollment is available on request for students who can only attend Saturdays and Sundays. When you are ready to start, we are ready for you. No waiting for the next term. No arbitrary deadlines.

Question 20

When can I start?

Accepted Answer

Any time. LYS School operates on open enrollment with no fixed start dates. When you complete your enrollment process and your first-day deposit is confirmed, you can begin. Contact us to get the process started.

Question 21

Can I take classes on weekends only?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Weekend-only classes are available upon request. These run Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Let us know when you contact admissions and we will build your schedule accordingly.

Question 22

Are programs available if English is not my first language?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Programs are available for non-fluent English speakers. Contact us to discuss how we can support you through the program.

Question 23

What should I expect on my first day and what should I bring?

Accepted Answer

Your first day is an orientation. You will log into your school iPad, learn where your assignments and reading materials are, and learn how to track your hours. Bring a valid photo ID and any enrollment paperwork you have not yet submitted. There is no uniform requirement -- just dress comfortably and modestly, avoiding clothing that is revealing or could be offensive to others. After orientation you will get a feel for the school, meet your instructor, and begin settling into your schedule.

Question 24

Where is the school and how do I get there?

Accepted Answer

LYS School is located at 2356 W. 63rd Street, Chicago, IL 60636. Street parking is available in the area. The school is also accessible by CTA. Contact us if you need specific transit directions and we will help you plan your route.

Question 25

Can I transfer hours from another school?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you have already completed hours at another IDFPR-licensed school -- including cosmetology schools, barber schools, esthetics schools, nail technology schools, or other licensed programs -- those hours may be transferable toward your requirement at LYS School. Contact us with your official transcript of hours and we will review what can be applied to your program. Transfer eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Question 26

What if my circumstances change while I am enrolled?

Accepted Answer

We understand that life happens. LYS School is built around flexibility and we work with our students. If your circumstances change, the most important thing is to communicate with us. We will do our best to find a solution that keeps you on track toward your license.

Question 27

What if I struggle with the coursework or exams?

Accepted Answer

We want every student to succeed and we support you through the process. Students have multiple opportunities to retake assessments, and our instructors work with you individually to make sure you understand the material before moving on. In our years of operation this has never been a barrier to graduation for a committed student. If you are putting in the work, we are putting in the work with you.

Question 28

Do you offer individual tutoring?

Accepted Answer

Yes. LYS School offers one-on-one tutoring sessions for students and natural hair care professionals looking to sharpen specific skills or techniques. Sessions are $150 per hour with a 2-hour minimum. Group tutoring sessions are also being planned -- contact us to express interest or ask about current availability. Tutoring is available for both enrolled students and licensed professionals looking to continue their development.

Question 29

Does LYS School welcome students of all backgrounds?

Accepted Answer

Yes. LYS School does not discriminate based on sex, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. We are an equal opportunity institution and our doors are open to everyone who is ready to build a career in natural hair care.

Question 30

How much does the Teacher License program cost?

Accepted Answer

The total program cost is $5,500 (placeholder -- final pricing will be confirmed before launch), which includes a $50 registration fee. A $500 deposit is required at the time of registration. Full payment is due on the first day of class. Payment plans are available. Contact admissions to discuss your options.

Question 31

How many hours are required for the Teacher License?

Accepted Answer

There are two tracks depending on your experience. The standard track is 600 hours and is open to anyone who holds or is actively pursuing a Hair Braiding License. If you already have at least 2 years of practical experience as a licensed hair braider, you may qualify for the 500-hour track, which exempts you from 100 hours of post-graduate school training. Contact admissions to determine which track applies to you.

Question 32

What is the Hair Braiding Teacher License?

Accepted Answer

The Hair Braiding Teacher License is an Illinois state license that authorizes you to teach hair braiding at a licensed school. At LYS School it means you have the credentials to pass your skills and knowledge to the next generation of braiders. The program goes beyond technique -- it covers educational psychology, teaching methods, student assessment, and business practices for instructors.

Question 33

Do I need my Hair Braiding License before enrolling in the Teacher program?

Accepted Answer

For the standard 600-hour track, you do not need to hold an active Hair Braiding License before enrolling, but you should be licensed or actively pursuing your license. For the 500-hour track, you must already have at least 2 years of practical experience as a licensed hair braider. Contact admissions to discuss your situation and determine the right path for you.

Question 34

Does the Teacher License program follow the same flexible schedule?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Teacher License program follows the same open enrollment and flexible scheduling model as the Hair Braiding License program. The school is open Monday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and you build your attendance around your life. Teacher program students attend alongside basic students, which is intentional -- student teaching requires working with real students in a real classroom setting.

Question 35

Is the Teacher License program available for non-fluent English speakers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Programs are available for non-fluent English speakers. Contact us to discuss how we can support you.

Question 36

Which licenses can LYS School help me renew?

Accepted Answer

We assist with both Basic and Teacher license renewals. Basic licenses include Cosmetology, Hair Braiding, Nail Technician, and Esthetician. Teacher licenses include Cosmetology Teacher, Cosmetology Clinic Teacher, Hair Braiding Teacher, Nail Technician Teacher, and Esthetician Teacher.

Question 37

Do I need a Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault continuing education course to renew my license?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Since January 1, 2019, Illinois law requires all cosmetologists, hair braiders, estheticians, nail technicians, and their teacher equivalents to complete a 1-hour continuing education course on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault as part of license renewal. This is a one-time requirement. LYS School is approved by IDFPR to provide this course.

Question 38

Can I take only the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault class without taking other CE courses?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. This class is available as a standalone one-hour course for those who only need that single credit to complete their renewal requirements.

Question 39

How long is the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault class?

Accepted Answer

The class takes one hour to complete.

Question 40

When is the renewal class available?

Accepted Answer

Renewal classes are available Monday through Friday at noon. Contact us to schedule your session.

Question 41

What is the Skinny on Skin requirement and does it apply to me?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it applies to you. Illinois Public Act 103-0851 requires all cosmetologists, hair braiders, estheticians, nail technicians, and their teacher equivalents to complete a one-time training on identifying abnormal skin growths -- commonly called the Skinny on Skin course. The law recognizes that beauty professionals are uniquely positioned to notice suspicious spots on a client's scalp, neck, and back during services, areas clients often cannot easily see themselves. Completing this training could help save a client's life through early melanoma detection.

Question 42

How long is the Skinny on Skin course and what does it cost?

Accepted Answer

The course takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete and is completely free. It is available online at any time through Impact Melanoma at impactmelanoma.org. You complete it at your own pace and receive a certificate when you finish.

Question 43

When do I need to complete the Skinny on Skin course?

Accepted Answer

The requirement took effect January 1, 2026. If you are obtaining your Hair Braiding License for the first time on or after January 1, 2026, you must complete the course before your license is issued. If you were already licensed before that date, you must complete it before your first renewal after January 1, 2026. For hair braiders, license renewal falls in September of odd-numbered years.

Question 44

What is Texture Lab?

Accepted Answer

Texture Lab is a natural hair training studio in Chicago specializing in braids, twists, locs, coils, and other protective styles. Services are performed by stylists in training from LYS School's state-licensed Hair Braiding program, under the direct supervision of licensed instructors. Appointments may take longer than a traditional salon and are offered at model pricing for guests who want to support future natural hair professionals. Texture Lab is located at LYS School, 2356 W. 63rd St., Chicago, and is open to everyone Monday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Question 45

Is Texture Lab a professional salon or a training studio?

Accepted Answer

Texture Lab is a supervised natural hair training studio -- not a traditional professional salon. Every service is performed by a stylist actively enrolled in LYS School's state-licensed Hair Braiding program, with a licensed instructor present and supervising throughout your appointment. The quality standard is professional. The pricing reflects that you are supporting a stylist in training, what we call model pricing. Appointments may run longer than you would experience at a traditional salon, and we appreciate your patience as our stylists build their craft.

Question 46

How do I know the quality will be good?

Accepted Answer

Every service at Texture Lab is supervised by a licensed instructor from start to finish. Stylists do not work unsupervised on clients. LYS School has been training hair braiders for over ten years and our instructors hold students to a professional standard. Every appointment includes a free consultation so you and your stylist are aligned on the look and approach before any hair is touched. If you have a concern during your appointment, the instructor is there to address it.

Question 47

What payment methods does Texture Lab accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept Zelle and cash only. Credit and debit cards are not accepted at this time. Please plan accordingly before your appointment.

Question 48

How much do Texture Lab services cost?

Accepted Answer

Services start at $80. Pricing depends on the style, length, and complexity. Texture Lab operates on model pricing -- supporting stylists in training -- so costs are significantly lower than a professional salon. Appointments may also take longer than a traditional salon as stylists develop their craft.

Question 49

What services does Texture Lab offer?

Accepted Answer

Texture Lab offers a full range of natural hair services including box braids, knotless braids, cornrows, twists, Senegalese twists, passion twists, locs (traditional, microlocs, Sisterlocks, and wicks), sew-ins, crochet styles, take-downs, co-washes, and twist-outs. All services are performed by stylists in training under the direct supervision of licensed instructors.

Question 50

Does Texture Lab welcome clients of all genders?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All genders are welcome at the LYS Student Salon and all services are available to everyone.

Question 51

Does Texture Lab offer locs services?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer traditional locs, microlocs, Sisterlocks, and wicks. All loc services include styling and a free hair wash.

Question 52

Is there a doctor or dermatologist at Texture Lab?

Accepted Answer

There are no medical workers at Texture Lab. However, we offer free consultations to assess your hair and scalp needs, and we can provide referrals to a dermatologist if needed.

Question 53

How do I book an appointment at Texture Lab?

Accepted Answer

Book online or call us. Walk-ins are also welcome based on student availability.

Question 54

What are the Texture Lab hours?

Accepted Answer

Texture Lab is open Monday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Your Illinois Hair Braiding License

Enrolling at LYS School

Hair Braiding Teacher License Program

License Renewals and Continuing Education

Texture Lab

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