Utah Cosmetology — Requirements & Free Practice
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Cosmetology license
Licensing authority: Utah Division of Professional Licensing · Application information
Competency based endorsement under § 58 1 302(3)(a)(i)
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Board discretion
- R156-1-302(4) permits the Division to require one or more of the examinations required for the profession; the applicant may be excused from all or part of the referenced exams. § 58-1-302 also requires identity, qualifications, good standing, the fee, and permits refusal for qualification or discipline concerns.
- Eligibility
- Prior US or foreign license, at least one year of licensed practice, and Division determination that education, credentialing examination, experience, and skills demonstrate competency.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
Equivalent license endorsement under § 58 1 302(3)(a)(ii)
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Board discretion
- R156-1-302(4) permits the Division to require one or more of the examinations required for the profession; the applicant may be excused from all or part of the referenced exams. § 58-1-302 also requires identity, qualifications, good standing, the fee, and permits refusal for qualification or discipline concerns.
- Eligibility
- Prior US or foreign license whose requirements when issued were substantially similar to current Utah requirements.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
Unlicensed education and experience endorsement under § 58 1 302(3)(b)
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Board discretion
- R156-1-302(4) permits the Division to require one or more of the examinations required for the profession; the applicant may be excused from all or part of the referenced exams. § 58-1-302 also requires identity, qualifications, good standing, the fee, and permits refusal for qualification or discipline concerns.
- Eligibility
- Not previously licensed; relevant education or experience elsewhere; Division determination of substantial similarity of education, credentialing examination, and experience.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
Individual equivalence endorsement under § 58 1 302(6)
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Board discretion
- R156-1-302(4) permits the Division to require one or more of the examinations required for the profession; the applicant may be excused from all or part of the referenced exams. § 58-1-302 also requires identity, qualifications, good standing, the fee, and permits refusal for qualification or discipline concerns.
- Eligibility
- Previously licensed applicant who does not satisfy subsection (2) or (3); Division evaluation of equivalence or additional education or experience needed.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
US jurisdiction endorsement under § 58 1 302(2)
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Board discretion
- R156-1-302(4) permits the Division to require one or more of the examinations required for the profession; the applicant may be excused from all or part of the referenced exams. § 58-1-302 also requires identity, qualifications, good standing, the fee, and permits refusal for qualification or discipline concerns.
- Eligibility
- A similar-scope US state, district, or territory license; at least one year of licensed practice; good standing.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
Initial issuance through apprenticeship
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Application
- Submit the Division-approved application and fee, certified minimum service counts, and satisfactory evidence of the applicable educational or apprenticeship requirements under § 58-11a-302.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
- Training
- 1250 approved apprenticeship hours, instructor supervision, prior Division registration, and applicable completion deadline.
Initial issuance through school
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Application
- Submit the Division-approved application and fee, certified minimum service counts, and satisfactory evidence of the applicable educational or apprenticeship requirements under § 58-11a-302.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
- Recognized school shortfall
- The applicable credential statute permits prior practice in another jurisdiction to make up a recognized-school training-hour shortfall.
- Training
- 1250 school instruction hours or equivalent credit hours
Reinstatement within 30 days
- Eligibility
- Apply within 30 days after expiration; completed renewal form, renewal qualifications, renewal fee and late fee.
- Standing
- These ordinary expiration pathways apply to licenses active and in good standing when they expired; disciplinary orders control restricted, suspended, probationary, revoked, or surrendered licenses.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Utah Code Chapter 58-11a, Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-11a-302.13, credential authorization
- R156-11a Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act Rule
R156-11a-308, examination exception
- Utah Code Chapter 58-1, Division of Professional Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-1-308(5)(a)(i)
Reinstatement following continuous qualifying practice elsewhere
- Eligibility
- Continuous licensed practice elsewhere or full-time US government practice since Utah expiration, compliance with renewal qualifications, application within six months after reestablishing Utah domicile or terminating government service, and renewal and reinstatement fees.
- Standing
- These ordinary expiration pathways apply to licenses active and in good standing when they expired; disciplinary orders control restricted, suspended, probationary, revoked, or surrendered licenses.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Utah Code Chapter 58-11a, Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-11a-302.13, credential authorization
- Utah Code Chapter 58-1, Division of Professional Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-1-308(6)(b)
Reinstatement after a disciplinary term or expiration under discipline
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
- Relicensure
- Meet current initial-license qualifications, required fees and current competency evidence; applicable disciplinary orders and restitution/fines remain applicant conditions.
Reinstatement after two through five years
- Eligibility
- Apply after two years through five years after expiration; renewal qualifications, applicable fees; R156-11a-308 expressly excuses the licensing examinations.
- Standing
- These ordinary expiration pathways apply to licenses active and in good standing when they expired; disciplinary orders control restricted, suspended, probationary, revoked, or surrendered licenses.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Utah Code Chapter 58-11a, Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-11a-302.13, credential authorization
- R156-11a Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act Rule
R156-11a-308, examination exception
- Utah Code Chapter 58-1, Division of Professional Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-1-308(5)(a)(i)
Reinstatement from 31 days through two years
- Eligibility
- Apply from 31 days through two years after expiration; completed renewal form, renewal qualifications, renewal and reinstatement fees.
- Standing
- These ordinary expiration pathways apply to licenses active and in good standing when they expired; disciplinary orders control restricted, suspended, probationary, revoked, or surrendered licenses.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Utah Code Chapter 58-11a, Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-11a-302.13, credential authorization
- R156-11a Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act Rule
R156-11a-308, examination exception
- Utah Code Chapter 58-1, Division of Professional Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-1-308(5)(a)(i)
Relicensure after five years without qualifying continuous practice
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
- Relicensure
- Meet current initial-license qualifications, required fees and current competency evidence; applicable disciplinary orders and restitution/fines remain applicant conditions.
Relicensure after revocation
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
- Relicensure
- Meet current initial-license qualifications, required fees and current competency evidence; applicable disciplinary orders and restitution/fines remain applicant conditions.
Relicensure after surrender while not in good standing
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
- Relicensure
- Meet current initial-license qualifications, required fees and current competency evidence; applicable disciplinary orders and restitution/fines remain applicant conditions.
Renewal
- Renewal
- Submit a complete renewal application, fee, and evidence of compliance with current renewal qualifications. § 58-1-308 governs and licenses follow a two-year renewal cycle; statutory legacy transitions control older terminology on the renewal page.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Utah Code Chapter 58-11a, Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-11a-302.13, credential authorization
- Utah Code Chapter 58-1, Division of Professional Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-1-308(4)(a)
- Utah Code Chapter 58-11a, Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-11a-303(3)
Legacy cosmetology/barbering license
Licensing authority: Utah Division of Professional Licensing · Application information
Initial issuance through grandfathered apprenticeship
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Application
- Submit the Division-approved application and fee, certified minimum service counts, and satisfactory evidence of the applicable educational or apprenticeship requirements under § 58-11a-302.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
- Grandfather eligibility
- Under § 58-11a-302.26, the apprenticeship must have been registered, or the licensed school program enrolled in and started, on or before January 1, 2026; issuance outside that grandfathered population is prohibited.
- Training
- 2500 approved apprenticeship hours, instructor supervision, prior Division registration, and applicable completion deadline.
Initial issuance through grandfathered school
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Application
- Submit the Division-approved application and fee, certified minimum service counts, and satisfactory evidence of the applicable educational or apprenticeship requirements under § 58-11a-302.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
- Grandfather eligibility
- Under § 58-11a-302.26, the apprenticeship must have been registered, or the licensed school program enrolled in and started, on or before January 1, 2026; issuance outside that grandfathered population is prohibited.
- Training
- 1600 school instruction hours or equivalent credit hours
Reinstatement within 30 days
- Eligibility
- Apply within 30 days after expiration; completed renewal form, renewal qualifications, renewal fee and late fee.
- Standing
- These ordinary expiration pathways apply to licenses active and in good standing when they expired; disciplinary orders control restricted, suspended, probationary, revoked, or surrendered licenses.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Utah Code Chapter 58-11a, Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-11a-302.26, credential authorization
- R156-11a Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act Rule
R156-11a-308, examination exception
- Utah Code Chapter 58-1, Division of Professional Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-1-308(5)(a)(i)
Reinstatement following continuous qualifying practice elsewhere
- Eligibility
- Continuous licensed practice elsewhere or full-time US government practice since Utah expiration, compliance with renewal qualifications, application within six months after reestablishing Utah domicile or terminating government service, and renewal and reinstatement fees.
- Standing
- These ordinary expiration pathways apply to licenses active and in good standing when they expired; disciplinary orders control restricted, suspended, probationary, revoked, or surrendered licenses.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Utah Code Chapter 58-11a, Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-11a-302.26, credential authorization
- Utah Code Chapter 58-1, Division of Professional Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-1-308(6)(b)
Reinstatement after two through five years
- Eligibility
- Apply after two years through five years after expiration; renewal qualifications, applicable fees; R156-11a-308 expressly excuses the licensing examinations.
- Standing
- These ordinary expiration pathways apply to licenses active and in good standing when they expired; disciplinary orders control restricted, suspended, probationary, revoked, or surrendered licenses.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Utah Code Chapter 58-11a, Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-11a-302.26, credential authorization
- R156-11a Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act Rule
R156-11a-308, examination exception
- Utah Code Chapter 58-1, Division of Professional Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-1-308(5)(a)(i)
Reinstatement from 31 days through two years
- Eligibility
- Apply from 31 days through two years after expiration; completed renewal form, renewal qualifications, renewal and reinstatement fees.
- Standing
- These ordinary expiration pathways apply to licenses active and in good standing when they expired; disciplinary orders control restricted, suspended, probationary, revoked, or surrendered licenses.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Utah Code Chapter 58-11a, Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-11a-302.26, credential authorization
- R156-11a Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act Rule
R156-11a-308, examination exception
- Utah Code Chapter 58-1, Division of Professional Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-1-308(5)(a)(i)
Renewal
- Renewal
- Submit a complete renewal application, fee, and evidence of compliance with current renewal qualifications. § 58-1-308 governs and licenses follow a two-year renewal cycle; statutory legacy transitions control older terminology on the renewal page.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Utah Code Chapter 58-11a, Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-11a-302.26, credential authorization
- Utah Code Chapter 58-1, Division of Professional Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-1-308(4)(a)
- Utah Code Chapter 58-11a, Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-11a-303(3)
Temporary cosmetology license
Licensing authority: Utah Division of Professional Licensing · Application information
Temporary license for emergency, service shortage, or monitored evaluation
- Eligibility
- Another-state license under requirements equal to or greater than Utah at original issuance; Division and Board finding of emergency, health or safety service shortage, or a need for monitored observation before deciding a regular license; § 58-1-303(3) prohibits issuance solely for competitive advantage or disadvantage.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Utah Code Chapter 58-1, Division of Professional Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-1-303(1)(c)
Temporary license pending the next examination
All of the following:
- National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- National Cosmetology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
- Additional nationwide examination
- UT Cosmetology CIB 2026.03.09, page 5: the practical requirement consists of two separate exams and three additional tasks. NIC Barber 1 Practical Examination is currently offered but absent from the supplied national registration context.
- Additional practical tasks
- The DOPL-approved CIB identifies Basic Facial, Hair Removal of the Eyebrows, and Sculptured Nail as additional practical tasks; these are tasks within the practical requirement, not independent examinations.
- Eligibility
- All ordinary cosmetology-license requirements other than passing the examination; take the next available examination; temporary license expires upon release of results if failed; maximum three consecutive temporary issues within three years.
- Equivalent examinations
- R156-11a-302a(3): the Division accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by another jurisdiction; unspecified alternatives are conditions, not invented leaves.
- Exam score window
- R156-11a-302a(1): pass the required examinations within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe for extenuating circumstances; passing score at least 70%.
Temporary teaching or assistance
- Eligibility
- The Division may issue to an individual licensed in another state or country who is temporarily in Utah to teach or assist a Utah-licensed practitioner.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- Utah Code Chapter 58-1, Division of Professional Licensing Act
Utah Code § 58-1-303(1)(b)
National Cosmetology Practical Examination
This assessment does not have a question bank.
- Provider
- Developed by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); practical examinations administered by test administration companies and states upon approval and authorization of NIC
- Format
- Hands-on practical examination in timed sections performed on a model or mannequin according to state guidelines, with more than one client represented; candidates bring their own supply kit and are evaluated by examiners on specified tasks; NIC also offers additional practical sections that states may require
Examination sources
- NIC National Cosmetology Practical Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
CIB title page, effective date
- NIC Candidate Information Bulletin Selection (NIC CIB repository linked from nictesting.org)
CIB Selection app, Overview paragraph
- NIC National Cosmetology Practical Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Cosmetology Practical Examination Content Outline, Core Domain Sections
- NIC National Cosmetology Practical Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Content Outline, Core Domain Sections list
- NIC National Cosmetology Practical Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Important Instructions, General, first paragraph
- NIC National Cosmetology Practical Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Section 1 Work Area and Client Preparation, evaluated tasks
- NIC National Cosmetology Practical Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Important Instructions, Standardized Administration
- NIC National Cosmetology Practical Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Special Attention, new client
- NIC website — NIC Exam Types
NIC Exam Types page, administration sentence
- NIC website — NIC Exam Types
NIC Exam Types page, state-specific CIB sentence
- NIC National Cosmetology Practical Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
CIB title page, provider notice
- NIC National Cosmetology Practical Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
CIB introduction, Additional Services paragraph
National Cosmetology Theory Examination
- Provider
- Developed by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); computer-based testing administered by test administration companies and states upon approval and authorization of NIC
- Format
- Multiple-choice theory examination; each question has four answer options, only one of which is correct
- Exam questions
- 110 items, of which 100 items are weighted and contribute to the final score
- Time limit
- 90 minutes
Examination outline
Scientific Concepts (35% of items) (35%)
- Infection control and safety practices — Identify cause/transmission of diseases and infections
- Infection control and safety practices — Identify the purpose and differentiate among the categories of infection control: Sanitation; Disinfection; Sterilization
- Infection control and safety practices — Recognize how cross-contamination occurs and how it can be prevented (e.g., single use and multi-use items)
- Infection control and safety practices — Apply blood exposure procedures
- Infection control and safety practices — Identify requirements of government agencies: OSHA; EPA
- Human anatomy and physiology — Identify function and structure of the: Hair and scalp; Skin; Nails
- Human anatomy and physiology — Recognize signs and symptoms of conditions, disorders, and diseases related to: Hair and scalp; Skin; Nails
- Human anatomy and physiology — Identify muscles and joints and their functions related to: Head and face; Arms and hands; Legs and feet
- Human anatomy and physiology — Identify functions of: Nervous system; Circulatory system
- Basic chemistry used in Cosmetology — Recognize purpose and effects of ingredients
- Basic chemistry used in Cosmetology — Recognize interactions between chemicals
- Basic chemistry used in Cosmetology — Recognize chemical reactions (e.g., overexposure, chemical burn)
- Basic chemistry used in Cosmetology — Recognize the values of the pH scale
Hair Care and Services (45% of items) (45%)
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Evaluate condition of client’s hair and scalp
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Recognize conditions that would prohibit service (i.e., contraindications)
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Utilize preliminary tests (e.g., predisposition and strand tests)
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Recommend services or products based on client needs
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Establish/Maintain client records (e.g., service history, client card, medical history)
- Hair care and services- Tools used in hair care services — Identify purpose, function, and infection control procedures of items: Equipment (e.g., chair, workstation); Implements (e.g., razors, shears, combs/brushes); Supplies and materials (e.g., towels, drapes, neck strips); Electrical tools (e.g., irons, blow dryers, clippers)
- Hair care and services- Tools used in hair care services — Demonstrate safe practices: Tools/Implements; Ergonomics
- Hair care principles and procedures — Demonstrate shampooing and conditioning
- Hair care principles and procedures — Demonstrate scalp treatments and scalp massage
- Hair care principles and procedures — Demonstrate draping (e.g., chemical, shampoo, cutting, styling)
- Hair care principles and procedures — Recognize differences in hair care principles and procedures based on various hair types and textures
- Hair design principles and procedures — Demonstrate hair cutting and shaping
- Hair design principles and procedures — Demonstrate hair styling: Wet styling; Thermal styling; Natural hair styling (e.g., braiding)
- Hair design principles and procedures — Apply, maintain, and remove hair enhancements: Wigs and hairpieces; Hair additions (e.g., taping, bonding, fusion, linking)
- Hair design principles and procedures — Apply principles of balance and hair design (e.g., facial shape, physical structure)
- Hair design principles and procedures — Recognize differences in hair design principles and procedures based on various hair types and textures
- Chemical services principles and procedures — Perform hair color services (e.g., virgin, retouch, lightening, foiling, balayage, color formulation, color correction)
- Chemical services principles and procedures — Perform chemical hair relaxer/restructurizer and curl reduction (e.g., hydroxide, thio, keratin) service
- Chemical services principles and procedures — Perform chemical waving/texturizing (e.g., alkaline, acid, non-thio) services
- Chemical services principles and procedures — Understand the chemical products used for the various hair texture types
Skin Care and Services (10% of items) (10%)
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Evaluate client’s skin: Type; Condition
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Recognize conditions that would prohibit service (i.e., contraindications)
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Recommend services or products based on client needs
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Establish/Maintain client records (e.g., service history, client card, medical history)
- Tools used for skin care services — Identify purpose, function, and infection control procedures of items: Equipment (e.g., chair, steamer); Implements (e.g., tweezers, brushes, extractors); Supplies, products, and materials (e.g., creams, masks, towels, wax, head coverings)
- Tools used for skin care services — Demonstrates safe practices: Tools/Implements; Ergonomics
- Skin care principles and procedures — Apply knowledge of a basic facial
- Skin care principles and procedures — Apply knowledge of hair removal
- Skin care principles and procedures — Apply knowledge of makeup application
- Skin care principles and procedures — Apply knowledge of electrical equipment
Nail Care and Services (10% of items) (10%)
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Evaluate condition of client’s nails
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Recognize conditions that would prohibit service (i.e., contraindications)
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Recommend services or products based on client needs
- Client consultation, analysis, and documentation — Establish/Maintain client records (e.g., service history, client card, medical history)
- Tools used for nail care services — Identify purpose, function, and infection control procedures of items: Equipment (e.g., workstation, pedicure basin); Implements (e.g., nippers, file); Supplies, products, and materials (e.g., towels, creams, polish)
- Tools used for nail care services — Demonstrates safe practices: Tools/Implements; Ergonomics
- Nail care service principles and procedures — Apply knowledge of a basic manicure and pedicure
- Nail care service principles and procedures — Apply, maintain, and remove nail enhancements
Examination sources
- NIC National Cosmetology Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
CIB title page, effective date
- NIC Candidate Information Bulletin Selection (NIC CIB repository linked from nictesting.org)
CIB Selection app, Overview paragraph
- NIC National Cosmetology Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Cosmetology Theory Examination Content Outline, Domain Details paragraph
- NIC National Cosmetology Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Content Outline, domain 1 heading
- NIC National Cosmetology Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Content Outline, domain 2 heading
- NIC National Cosmetology Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Content Outline, domain 3 heading
- NIC National Cosmetology Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Content Outline, domain 4 heading
- NIC National Cosmetology Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Cosmetology Theory Examination Content Outline, Domain Details paragraph
- NIC National Cosmetology Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
CIB title page, time allowed
- NIC National Cosmetology Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
Sample Questions, introductory paragraph
- NIC website — NIC Exam Types
NIC Exam Types page, administration sentence
- NIC website — NIC Exam Types
NIC Exam Types page, state-specific CIB sentence
- NIC National Cosmetology Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
CIB title page, provider notice