Exam Domains

1 Infection Control and Safety Weight not published

2 Anatomy and Physiology Weight not published

3 Chemistry (Products, Chemistry of Hair and Skin) Weight not published

4 Skin Care and Facials 10%

5 Hair Care (Cutting, Coloring, Chemical Services) 45%

6 Nail Care 10%

7 Business Skills and State Law Weight not published

Exam Details

Question TypesMultiple Choice (written), Practical Performance Evaluation (practical)

FormatComputer-based (written); In-person practical at authorized site

Online ProctoringNot available

ID RequirementsGovernment-issued photo ID required. Name must match registration. Some states require proof of school enrollment or graduation hours.

RenewalRequired -- Cosmetology licenses are issued by state boards after passing NIC (or equivalent) exams. License renewal periods and continuing education requirements vary by state; typically 2-year renewal cycles with CEU requirements. Candidates must contact their state board for renewal details.

Retake PolicyRetake policies are set by individual state boards. Most states impose a waiting period between failed attempts (commonly 30–90 days). Full exam fee typically required for each retake. Check your state board for specifics.

LanguagesEnglish, Spanish (availability varies by state)

NIC Cosmetology Written Exam (NIC-CW) Exam Blueprint

Exam Domains

Exam Details

Official Study Resources