I live in Illinois and I would love to go to cosmetology school; however, I have a felony in retail theft. It's the only thing on my record. Does this affect licensure? Would I have to get a waiver? Or would I even be able to go to school?

Hi, puppylove08!

In Illinois, you might be able to get the licensure for something like that, but I'm not absoloutely sure. Please read the information that can be found via clicking on the following link.

Reinstatement of Occupational Licenses

I do know, that depending on the nature of the crime, length of time since the crime, and other factors are involved in obtaining a waiver in certain healthcare professions.

Please read the information that can be found via clicking on the following link.

Illinois Department of Public Health Nurse Aide Registry

I don't know where the profession of cosmetogy falls into this whole process, but it would be worth looking into. Unlike most other states, Illinois does, under certain conditions, allow persons to work and be certified or licensed in a number of different fields. Again, it would depend on a number of factors...

Thanks!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by puppylove08

Does this affect licensure? Would I have to get a waiver?

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Hello p:

Your criminal record effects EVERY professional license you apply for. I don't know if it would be enough to prevent you from getting this particular license, though.. However, to avoid guesswork, I'm sure there's a cosmetology board who grants those licenses. I'm also sure they have written criteria in terms of eligibility. I'd get a hold of them and ask to SEE the publication.

excon

Hi again, puppylove08!

Here's a link to another site to look for subjects by using keywords in the search function. I looked for cosmetology and quite a few links appeared by doing that.

Illinois General Assembly - Illinois Compiled Statutes

Thanks!

Here are also, some other links where you'll find information, specific to Illinois concerning cosmtology.

State of Illinois - Professional Cosmetologist

As excon mentioned about a Board already, turns out there is an actual Illinois State Board of Cosmetology.

Illinois State Board of Cosmetology License Requirements

The contact information can be found for them, via clicking on the link above.

Thanks!

Even if you get your license if someone runs a background check because you want to work for someone/rent a chair for someone there is a possibility they will not hire you due to your past record.

To get a waiver in Illinois, if that's possible, and it is for a number of occupations in Illinois, one of the usual requirements for getting the waiver is that the person provide references and letters of recommendation in order to obtain the waiver.

Such references and letters could be used in the interview process. If someone has committed crimes that are potential bars to certain types of employment, they should be revealing them on applications and during the interview process anyway.

Thanks!

Thank you Clough for all the information! I called the IDFPR today and have yet to get a hold of them. I've been told it won't affect licensure, but yes, I am VERY well aware that everything shows up on my bkgrd check! I've spent years on the computer trying to find a way to get my life going again and I'm hoping this is it!

I'm glad that you called them, puppylove08, and I hope the results will all be in your favor!

I wish and hope only the best for you!

Thanks!

Just wondering, did u receive your license??

Yes you can. I did it last year. I am a licensed cosmetologist, graduate of Capri School of Cosmetology in Illinois.