1. A. In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

2. B. Terms Defined.

   1. (1) “Approved continuing education course” means a course approved by the Maryland Board of Cosmetologists.
   2. (2) “Board” means the Maryland Board of Cosmetologists.

   3. (3) “Classroom instruction” means the art or science of teaching in a space:

      1. (a) That is exclusively used for teaching during periods of instruction;
      2. (b) That is conducive to learning; and
      3. (c) Where an assigned instructor is present.

   4. (4) Contact Hour

      1. (a) “Contact hour” means a period of 60 minutes in which actual learning takes place.

      2. (b) “Contact hour” does not include

         1. (i) A portion of the program devoted to registration, breaks, or meals; or
         2. (ii) Fractions of an hour.
   5. (5) “Continuing education course” means the basic measurement for a licensee’s direct participation in continuing education, consisting of 6 contact hours.

   6. (6) “Continuing education course related to cosmetology” means a course that covers one or more of the following topics:

      1. (a) Board Laws and Regulations (1 to 2 hours);
      2. (b) Elective topics (1 to 4 hours);
      3. (c) Health (1 to 2 hours);
      4. (d) Safety (1 to 2 hours); or
      5. (e) Welfare (1 to 2 hours).
   7. (7) “Course” means classroom or distance learning instruction of 1 clock hour, but not more than 6 clock hours.
   8. (8) “Course provider” means someone who is qualified to conduct continuing education courses in accordance with Business Occupations and Professional Article, §5-205(c)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland.

   9. (9) Distance Learning Instruction.

      1. (a) “Distance learning instruction” means the art or science of teaching where:

         1. (i) The instructor and student may be separated by distance and time;
         2. (ii) Equipment may be needed to communicate the content; or
         3. (iii) The content is specifically developed for this form of instruction.
      2. (b) “Distance learning instruction” includes any other delivery system approved by the Board.
   10. (10) “Instructor” means an individual engaged by a course provider to teach a continuing education course.
   11. (11) “License” means, unless the context requires otherwise, a license issued by the Board.
   12. (12) “Licensee” means an individual awarded a license by the Board.

Authority: Business Occupations and Professions Article, §§5-205 and 5-311, Annotated Code of Maryland

Effective date: Effective date: May 1, 2023 (50:8 Md. R. 337)

Regulation .02B amended effective March 2, 2026 (53:4 Md. R. 184)

Regulation .05A amended effective March 2, 2026 (53:4 Md. R. 184)