
The cost of the test varies by state, but NIC offers practice examinations for the written portion of the test for $39, as well as an overview DVD that can help prepare you for the practical exam.

They include work area and client prep and setup of supplies, thermal curling, haircutting, chemical waving, predisposition test and strand test, highlighting with foil, hair color retouch, hair relaxer, and blood exposure procedures. The practical exam covers 10 key areas, all of which are timed and practiced in physical workspaces with actual tools and mannequins or models. The theory exam consists of 110 questions spread across four domains: There are two sections to the NIC exam: the theory, or written portion, and the practical examination, which is hands-on. If not, your state will administer its own equivalent test. The National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) will most likely administer the exam. No matter what state you live in, you will need to take and pass a comprehensive exam before you get your license.

For example, Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota require 2,100 hours, while New Jersey and Florida require just 1,200. However, that number can vary by hundreds of hours from state to state. According to the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS), the national average number of training hours required is between 1,400 and 1,600. Training hours are a critical component in earning your cosmetology license. Generally speaking, the larger the training hour requirement, the longer you will be in school. These include both in-class learning and hands-on experiences. Training hours refer to the amount of time you spend in school.


As mentioned previously, state requirements can vary, so it is important that you check with your state board. The general requirements for getting your license involves completing the required number of training hours and taking an exam. Sponsored content, school availability varies by location What Are the Requirements for Getting a Cosmetology License?
