What is required as part of the application or license renewal process?

The requirement for a passport photograph as part of the application or license renewal process is essential because it serves to verify the identity of the applicant. The passport-sized photo ensures that the individual applying for the license is accurately represented and can be easily identified when the license is issued. This measure helps maintain the integrity of the licensing process and prevents issues such as identity fraud.

Other choices may relate to various aspects of professional requirements or documentation, but they are not standard requirements within the Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology's procedures. A written exam might be necessary for initial licensing, but not for renewals. A recommendation letter could be useful in certain professional contexts but is not a general requirement for license applications or renewals in cosmetology. A notarized document might be applicable for various legal purposes but does not specifically pertain to the requirements set forth by the cosmetology board for license applications or renewals. Thus, the passport photograph stands out as the key requirement for identity verification in this context.