Cosmetology Test

A cosmetology test is required for individuals who plan to become a cosmetologist. A cosmetologist is one skilled in an area of cosmetology, such as hair styling, nails, skin care, cosmetics, or electrolysis. In order to practice in these areas, a cosmetology license is required and is given to those who pass the cosmetology test. The cosmetology test is given by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC).

To take the cosmetology test, a candidate must meet certain requirements. She must be at least 17 years of age, have completed 10th grade, have no criminal background, and have completed at least 1,600 hours of cosmetology training in a board-approved school. If you meet these requirements, you will then need to complete an application. The application will ask for your personal information, education, and criminal background. You will also be asked to sign the application and include a check for the fee of $125. You will receive a response regarding your application status within eight weeks.

There are two types of cosmetology tests: written and practical.

• The written test is multiple-choice and takes 90 minutes. It includes questions about hair care and services, scientific concepts, skin care and services, and nail care and services.
• The hair care and services content area is in-depth and accounts for 51 percent of the test. This area of the cosmetology test includes many concepts about hair and its care, such as hair and scalp properties, hair analysis, growth and loss, hair design, and hair cutting and styling procedures. You will also be tested on how to care for hair, such as proper shampooing, conditioning, brushing, and scalp treatment. In addition, you will be asked about the proper use of chemicals that are used in permanent waving, relaxing, curl reforming, and hair coloring.
• The scientific concepts content area accounts for 29 percent of the test. It tests your knowledge of infection control, human anatomy, chemistry, nutrition, ergonomics, and electricity principles.
• The skin care and services portion of the cosmetology test accounts for 11 percent and tests your knowledge of skin anatomy and functions, draping procedures, hair removal procedures, facial procedures, and makeup application.
• The nail care and services section of the cosmetology test accounts for nine percent of the test and assesses your knowledge of nail growth and structure, manicure and pedicure procedures, and advanced nail procedures.

The practical portion of the cosmetology test is hands-on during which you will respond to verbal instructions given by the evaluator. You will be required to bring your own kit with the appropriate supplies to the test. Depending on the state in which you take the cosmetology test, you may need to bring a live model or mannequin head and hand as well to perform the demonstrations. The model must be at least 15 years of age and present a valid ID. You will be tested on six areas: set-up and client protection, thermal curling, hair cutting, chemical waving, hair lightening and coloring, and chemical relaxing. Depending on the state, you may also be tested on other areas, such as blow-dry styling, pin curl and roller placement, basic facial, manicure, and sculpted nail. You will be assessed on whether you use proper safety and sanitary procedures, as well as how well you follow the instructions and do the tasks correctly.

A score of 70 is considered passing. Candidates are notified of their results within six weeks of taking the test. If you pass, you will be mailed your cosmetology license. For security reasons, results are sent only by mail. Scores cannot be obtained over the telephone or by any other means.