💇 State Cosmetology Board

Pass the State Cosmetology Board Exam on Your First Try.

1,000+ practice questions covering hair color theory, chemical services, sanitation, skin care, and state regulations. Built-in Chemical Service Reference. Free to start.

Try the free practice test Unlock web access

Web access works in your browser. Native iOS and Android apps are separate purchases for offline mobile study.

💇

Works in your browser

Web access available after free practice

Built-in Chemical Service Reference

1,000+

Practice Questions

Topics Covered

Free

To Start

Offline

No Wi-Fi Needed

Topics Covered

✓Hair Color Theory & Chemistry

✓Chemical Services — Perms & Relaxers

✓Skin Care & Facials

✓Nail Services & Sanitation

✓Infection Control & Safety

✓Anatomy & Physiology

✓State Board Regulations

✓Business & Salon Management

Web Practice Features

🧠1,000+ State Board practice questions with full answer explanations

🔧Built-in Chemical Service Reference — oxidation, pH, processing charts

📊Progress tracking by topic — know exactly where you stand

🔁Missed question review — study your weak spots automatically

✈️Full offline access — study anywhere, no Wi-Fi required

📱Web practice — works on desktop and mobile browsers

Simple Pricing

Start free. Upgrade when you're ready.

Free Trial

First 20 questions per topic, no time limit, no credit card

Monthly

$9.99/mo

3-day free trial (card saved), then $9.99/mo or $24.99/yr on the web. Cancel anytime.

Best Value

Lifetime

$59.99

Pay once, own forever. Best value if your exam is within 3 months.

Start free web practice Unlock web access

Web access works in your browser. Native iOS and Android apps are separate purchases for offline mobile study.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is on the cosmetology state board exam?

The cosmetology state board exam has two parts: a written (theory) exam and a practical (hands-on) exam. The written exam covers hair color theory, chemical services, skin care, nail services, infection control, anatomy, and state regulations. Most state written exams are 100 questions with a 70–75% passing score requirement.

How many questions are on the cosmetology written exam?

Most state cosmetology written exams are 100–130 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers theory, science, and state-specific regulations. The passing score is typically 70–75% depending on your state. The practical exam is evaluated separately by a licensed examiner.

What do I need to pass the cosmetology board exam?

To pass the cosmetology board exam you need to complete your state's required training hours (ranging from 1,000 to 1,600 hours depending on the state), pass the written theory exam at 70–75%, and pass the practical skills evaluation. Consistent practice with board-style questions significantly increases first-attempt pass rates.

How long should I study for the cosmetology board exam?

Most cosmetology students study 20–40 hours of focused exam prep after completing their program hours. With the app, many candidates study 1–2 hours per day for 2–3 weeks before their board exam. Focus on sanitation rules, chemical service ratios, and state-specific regulations — these are the most-tested topics.

What is the Chemical Service Reference in the app?

The Chemical Service Reference is a built-in tool that covers oxidation levels, pH ranges, processing times, and chemical ratios for perms, relaxers, and color services — the exact formulas and relationships that appear on both the written and practical board exam.

Cosmetology License Requirements by State

Cosmetology License requirements vary widely by state. Below is a state-by-state summary of the cosmetology licensing exam — the regulating board, exam format, and training where verified. Figures are web-verified for 2026 but change by cycle and classification; always confirm the current rules and fees with your state board before you apply.

Alabama (AL)

State board: Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (ABOCB)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly administered via PSI
Exam covers: Infection control and safety, chemical services, hair/skin/nail care, and Alabama law and rules
Training hours: ~1,500 hours at a licensed school (confirm the current requirement with the board)

Alaska (AK)

State agency: Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers (Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,650 hours for a hairdresser/cosmetology license (or a 2,000-hour apprenticeship)

Alaska's main cosmetology credential is titled 'hairdresser.'

Arizona (AZ)

State board: Arizona Barbering and Cosmetology Board
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,000 hours (reduced from 1,600)

Arizona merged its separate barber and cosmetology boards into one agency.

Arkansas (AR)

State agency: Arkansas Department of Health, Cosmetology Section
Exam: NIC-based written theory + practical, commonly via PSI
Exam covers: Sanitation and safety, chemical services, hair/skin/nail care, and Arkansas rules
Training hours: 1,500 hours at a licensed school

Cosmetology in Arkansas is regulated by the state Department of Health, not a standalone board.

California (CA)

State board: California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (Dept. of Consumer Affairs)
Exam: PSI — written theory only (the practical exam was eliminated); 75% to pass
Training hours: 1,000 hours (reduced from 1,600 in 2022); apprenticeship route also available
Fee range: ~$125 ($75 exam + $50 initial license)

Colorado (CO)

State agency: Office of Barber and Cosmetology Licensure, Division of Professions and Occupations (DORA)
Exam: PSI — written theory and practical
Training hours: 1,500 contact hours (or 50 credit hours), or a Colorado-approved apprenticeship

Connecticut (CT)

State agency: Connecticut Department of Public Health (Hairdresser & Cosmetician licensing)
Exam: Connecticut has historically licensed on completion of approved training rather than a separate state board exam — confirm current requirements with DPH
Training hours: 1,500 hours in a DPH-approved school

Connecticut licenses cosmetology under its Department of Public Health, which is unusual.

Delaware (DE)

State board: Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (Division of Professional Regulation)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 classroom hours (or a 3,000-hour apprenticeship)

Florida (FL)

State board: Florida Board of Cosmetology, Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
Exam: Pearson VUE — written only (general theory + clinical), 75% each; no hands-on practical
Training hours: 1,200 hours plus a required 4-hour HIV/AIDS course
Fee range: ~$95–$140 in application, license, and exam fees

Georgia (GA)

State board: Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers, under the Secretary of State
Exam: PSI (NIC national exam) — written and practical
Training hours: 1,500 hours of school (or a 3,000-hour apprenticeship)
Fee range: Exam ~$109 (theory + practical) plus a state application fee

Hawaii (HI)

State board: Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, Professional & Vocational Licensing (DCCA)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,800 hours for a cosmetology license (or a 3,600-hour apprenticeship)

Idaho (ID)

State board: Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board, Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,600 hours at a licensed school

Illinois (IL)

State agency: Illinois Dept. of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
Exam: Continental Testing Services (delivered at PSI centers) — written theory only
Training hours: 1,500 hours
Fee range: ~$45 application plus exam (~$195); roughly $45–$240

Indiana (IN)

State board: State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners, Professional Licensing Agency (PLA)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 hours at a licensed school

Iowa (IA)

State board: Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts & Sciences, Dept. of Inspections, Appeals & Licensing (DIAL)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: ~1,550 hours — Iowa lowered its longstanding 2,100-hour requirement; confirm the current figure with the board

Kansas (KS)

State board: Kansas Board of Cosmetology
Exam: Written theory and practical, 75% to pass each, commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 clock hours at a licensed school

Kentucky (KY)

State board: Kentucky Board of Cosmetology (formerly Board of Hairdressers and Cosmetologists)
Exam: Written and practical exams
Training hours: 1,500 hours at a licensed school

Louisiana (LA)

State board: Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology (LSBC)
Exam: Three exams — NIC national written, a Louisiana state written, and an LSBC practical
Training hours: 1,500 hours (theory exam eligible at 1,000 hours; practical at 1,500)

Maine (ME)

State agency: Barbering and Cosmetology Licensing Program, Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation (OPOR)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 hours (or a 2,500-hour apprenticeship)

Maryland (MD)

State board: Maryland Board of Cosmetologists (Dept. of Labor, Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 hours at an approved school (or 24 months as a registered apprentice)

Massachusetts (MA)

State board: Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering (Division of Occupational Licensure)
Exam: PSI — written theory and practical
Training hours: 1,000 hours for a cosmetologist license

Michigan (MI)

State agency: Michigan Dept. of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Board of Cosmetology
Exam: PSI — written and practical
Training hours: 1,500 hours (or a 2-year apprenticeship)
Fee range: ~$63 application plus exam (~$161); roughly $63–$225

Minnesota (MN)

State board: Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners
Exam: Written theory and a practical skills assessment
Training hours: 1,550 hours at a Board-approved school

Mississippi (MS)

State board: Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 hours over at least 9 months at an accredited school

Missouri (MO)

State board: Missouri State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners
Exam: Prov (Provexam) — written and practical
Training hours: 1,500 hours (or a 3,000-hour apprenticeship)

Montana (MT)

State board: Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists (Dept. of Labor & Industry)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 2,000 hours at a Board-approved school

Nebraska (NE)

State agency: Nebraska DHHS (Board of Cosmetology, Electrology, Esthetics, Nail Technology & Body Art)
Exam: NIC written theory exam only — Nebraska does not require a hands-on practical exam
Training hours: 1,800 hours (reduced from 2,100)

Nevada (NV)

State board: Nevada State Board of Cosmetology
Exam: Three exams — a theory exam, a practical exam, and a Nevada state law exam
Training hours: 1,600 hours (or a 3,200-hour apprenticeship)

New Hampshire (NH)

State board: Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics, Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 hours (or 3,000 hours of documented apprentice/work experience)

New Jersey (NJ)

State board: New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling (Division of Consumer Affairs)
Exam: Prometric — written and practical
Training hours: 1,200 hours for a cosmetology-hairstyling license

New Mexico (NM)

State board: New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists (Regulation and Licensing Department)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,600 clock hours (about 63 credit hours)

New York (NY)

State agency: New York Dept. of State, Division of Licensing Services (Appearance Enhancement)
Exam: State-run — written AND practical exams both required
Training hours: 1,000 hours
Fee range: ~$40–$70 (application plus written and practical exam fees)

North Carolina (NC)

State board: North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners
Exam: NIC exam (via Provexam/PSI) — written and practical, 75% each
Training hours: 1,500 hours (a 1,200-hour apprentice route also exists)
Fee range: ~$49–$113 ($64 exam + $49 license application)

North Dakota (ND)

State board: North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 hours (reduced from 1,800 in 2021)

Ohio (OH)

State board: Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board
Exam: State-run — written (100 questions) and practical
Training hours: 1,500 hours (1,000 if already a licensed barber)
Fee range: Roughly $60–$165 in exam and license fees (verify current fees with the board)

Oklahoma (OK)

State board: Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,000 hours (reduced from 1,500, effective July 1, 2025) or a 2,250-hour apprenticeship

Oregon (OR)

State agency: Board of Cosmetology, Health Licensing Office (Oregon Health Authority)
Exam: State theory and practical exams administered through the Health Licensing Office
Training hours: Hair design certification requires 1,110 hours; other fields (barber, esthetics, nails) are certified separately with their own hours

Oregon certifies by field of practice rather than issuing one broad 'cosmetology' license.

Pennsylvania (PA)

State board: Pennsylvania State Board of Cosmetology (Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs)
Exam: Pearson VUE — written theory and practical portions
Training hours: 1,250 hours
Fee range: ~$25 board application fee plus exam (~$185); roughly $25–$210

Rhode Island (RI)

State agency: Rhode Island Dept. of Health — Board of Barbering, Hairdressing and Cosmetology
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 hours at an approved school

Rhode Island regulates cosmetology through its Department of Health.

South Carolina (SC)

State board: South Carolina Board of Cosmetology, Dept. of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 hours — all at a licensed school (no apprenticeship route)

South Dakota (SD)

State agency: South Dakota Cosmetology Commission (Dept. of Labor and Regulation)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: ~1,500 hours — sources vary (some cite 2,100); confirm the current requirement with the Commission

Tennessee (TN)

State board: Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners
Exam: Written and practical exams after training is complete
Training hours: 1,500 hours at a school of cosmetology

Texas (TX)

State board: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Barbering & Cosmetology program
Exam: PSI — written AND practical exams both required
Training hours: 1,000 hours
Fee range: ~$50–$150 (TDLR fee plus PSI written and practical exam fees)

Utah (UT)

State agency: Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL), Dept. of Commerce
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,250 hours for the cosmetology/barber license (reduced from 1,600, effective January 1, 2026)

Vermont (VT)

State board: Vermont Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists, Office of Professional Regulation (Secretary of State)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 hours (or a 2,000-hour apprenticeship)

Virginia (VA)

State board: Board for Barbers and Cosmetology, Dept. of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 hours in a formal program (or a 3,000-hour apprenticeship)

Washington (WA)

State agency: Washington State Department of Licensing (Cosmetology program)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,600 hours (or a 3,000-hour apprenticeship plus 244 hours of instruction)

West Virginia (WV)

State board: West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,800 hours at a licensed school

Wisconsin (WI)

State board: Cosmetology Examining Board, Dept. of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,550 hours over at least 10 months at a licensed school

Wyoming (WY)

State board: Wyoming Board of Cosmetology
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: ~1,600 hours — recent guidance cites 1,600 (down from a former 2,000); confirm the current requirement with the board

Washington D.C. (DC)

State agency: D.C. Board of Barber and Cosmetology, Dept. of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP)
Exam: NIC exam (written theory + practical), commonly via PSI
Training hours: 1,500 hours (or a 2,000-hour apprenticeship curriculum)

Licensing moved from DCRA to the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP).

VoltExam is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with any state board. Practice for the cosmetology licensing exam free at voltexam.com/study/cosmetology.