State Board Cosmetology Exam Practice Test 2024 [Study Guide]

Last Updated on September 12, 2024

Free State Board Cosmetology Exam Practice Test 2024 Questions Answers. Let’s Prepare with actual questions and answers for the Cosmetology Certification Course online quiz. Additionally, download the free printable study guide.

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State Board Cosmetology Practice Test 2024

We have designed a full-length practice test of the Cosmetology Exam consisting of 110 multiple-choice questions and answers in Quiz format. You can practice either the English or Spanish version.

Flashcards
  • State Board Cosmetology Exam Flashcards

State Board Cosmetology Exam

Each state’s board of cosmetology sets licensure standards for cosmetologists, manicurists, and estheticians. Although requirements and licensure proceedings differ somewhat by state, most require both a written exam and a practical exam, and all are based on the same core content you studied in your cosmetology course.

In most states, the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology offers a cosmetology exam necessary to obtain a license or certification. The exam consists of two parts assessing a cosmetologist’s knowledge and skill in various topics relevant to their work.

Course Name Cosmetology
Total Questions 110 (MCQs)
Time Duration 90 Minutes
Passing Marks 70% percent or above
Test Mode Computer Based Test (Onlne)

The exam consists of written multiple-choice and hands-on practical tests, although some states do not require the useful portion. Professionals and students can use online tools to create practice questions and flashcards to assist them in studying for the examination.

The Cosmetology exam consists of four main domains:

The Cosmetology exam consists four main domains

 1. Scientific Concepts: 30% 

This domain covers infection control, safety practices, and scientific foundations. It includes understanding disease transmission, infection control levels, and government regulations. Candidates must grasp human anatomy, product chemistry, and their effects, including pH scales, chemical interactions, and reactions to ensure safe and effective practices.

Infection Control

  • Microbiology
  • Methods of infection control
  • Federal regulations and universal precautions

Human Anatomy and Physiology

  • Cells
  • Tissues
  • Body systems

Nutrition

Ergonomics

Basic Principles of Chemistry

  • Compounds, mixtures, solutions, suspensions, and emulsions
  • The pH scale
  • Product ingredients

Basic Principles of Electricity

  • Electric current
  • Electric measurements
  • Electricity in cosmetology
  • Safety precautions and infection control

This Chart shows The Cosmetology exam consist four main domains percentage distribution

 2. Hair Care and Services: 50% 

The cosmetology exam encompasses hair care and services, covering client consultation and assessment, tools used in hair care, shampooing, conditioning, scalp treatments, and hair design techniques, including cutting, styling, and enhancements like extensions. It also includes chemical services such as coloring, lightening, relaxing, and texturizing, emphasizing safety, procedures, and principles across these practices.

 3. Skin Care and Services: 10% 

This domain centers on skin care, including client assessment, tools, infection control, and safe practices. It covers facial procedures, hair removal, makeup, and emphasizes safety measures.

 4. Nail Care and Services: 10% 

This domain assesses nail conditions, tools, and safe practices. It covers manicures, pedicures, and applying/removing nail enhancements like tips and acrylics.

Cosmetology Practical Exam

In almost every state, you must pass a practical and written exam to become a licensed cosmetologist. The details of this practical exam can differ from state to state, so you should check with your state board to find out what will be on your exam and how it will be tested.

No matter how your state conducts the practical exam, some key areas are usually included. These areas are essential for keeping your certification valid across different states and meeting standard job requirements. The main topics typically covered are:

  • Hair Shaping
  • Chemical Waving
  • Hair Lightening/Coloring
  • Chemical Relaxing
  • Shaping and Pin Curl Placement
  • Thermal Curling
  • Blow-Dry Styling

Most states also require you to demonstrate skills in additional areas, such as Roller Placement, Facials, Manicures, and Sculptured Nails.

During the practical exam, you will be asked to perform specific tasks using the materials provided and within a set time limit. You will be judged on how well you follow safety rules, control infections, and protect clients. For example, if you need to show your skill in chemical waving, you might be asked to wrap a specific section of hair and place rods correctly. You will also need to show how to do a test curl. Each topic will have clear guidelines and criteria that you need to follow.

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