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Virginia Cosmetology — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Cosmetologist License

License for compensated cosmetology under Virginia law. Exempt activities and applicants are defined by Va. Code § 54.1-701 and 18VAC41-20-15. The compact notice anticipates activation in early 2027, so no multistate issuance route is asserted for the evaluation date.

Licensing authority: Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology · Application information

Reinstatement within two years after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Deadline
For renewal more than 30 days but within two years after expiration, pay the applicable reinstatement fee.
Practice
Do not practice while expired; reinstatement restores continuous licensure for Board jurisdiction and sets expiration two years from the last day of the reinstatement month.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Cycle
License or certificate expires two years from the last day of its issuance month.
Renewal
Pay the applicable renewal fee following the Board renewal notice; failure to receive a notice does not excuse renewal. The 30-day grace period permits renewal without a reinstatement fee; it does not authorize practice on an expired license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return after more than two years expired — at least three years

All of the following:

Application documentation
Submit the qualifying training or experience documentation, required reporting forms, signature, current passport-compliant photo, and applicable fees.
Criminal history
Disclose felony convictions within ten years; Board applies Va. Code § 54.1-204 (18VAC41-20-20(A)(4)).
Exam score timing
Both written and practical examinations must be passed within one year of the initial examination date; apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both or retake both (18VAC41-20-60(B),(D)).
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and disclose disciplinary action; Board review may result in denial (18VAC41-20-20(A)(1)).
Identification
Provide a Social Security number or Virginia DMV control number as requested by the application.
Law acknowledgment
Sign a statement that Virginia licensing laws and regulations have been read and understood (18VAC41-20-20(A)(3)).
Physical address
Provide a physical address; a post office box may be secondary (18VAC41-20-20(A)(2)).
Previous license
The prior Virginia cosmetology license expired more than two years ago; reinstatement is no longer possible.
Public school language
Graduates trained in a Virginia Department of Education public-school program must take the written exam in English, according to the March 5, 2026 provider bulletin.
Requalification
Previously licensed for at least three years: submit a new application and pass the required examinations; the Board application asks for experience verification.
Virginia exam content
The March 5, 2026 Virginia provider bulletin places ten Virginia state-law questions inside the NIC theory examination, referencing 18VAC41-20 for cosmetology. The practical examination uses the core NIC services plus hair removal of the eyebrows by tweezing and simulated soft wax. These are content of the named NIC examinations rather than independent state-exam leaves.
Return after more than two years expired — less than three years

All of the following:

Application documentation
Submit the qualifying training or experience documentation, required reporting forms, signature, current passport-compliant photo, and applicable fees.
Criminal history
Disclose felony convictions within ten years; Board applies Va. Code § 54.1-204 (18VAC41-20-20(A)(4)).
Exam score timing
Both written and practical examinations must be passed within one year of the initial examination date; apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both or retake both (18VAC41-20-60(B),(D)).
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and disclose disciplinary action; Board review may result in denial (18VAC41-20-20(A)(1)).
Identification
Provide a Social Security number or Virginia DMV control number as requested by the application.
Law acknowledgment
Sign a statement that Virginia licensing laws and regulations have been read and understood (18VAC41-20-20(A)(3)).
Physical address
Provide a physical address; a post office box may be secondary (18VAC41-20-20(A)(2)).
Previous license
The prior Virginia cosmetology license expired more than two years ago; reinstatement is no longer possible.
Public school language
Graduates trained in a Virginia Department of Education public-school program must take the written exam in English, according to the March 5, 2026 provider bulletin.
Requalification
Previously licensed for less than three years: submit a new application and meet all current entry requirements; the Board application asks for Board verification.
Virginia exam content
The March 5, 2026 Virginia provider bulletin places ten Virginia state-law questions inside the NIC theory examination, referencing 18VAC41-20 for cosmetology. The practical examination uses the core NIC services plus hair removal of the eyebrows by tweezing and simulated soft wax. These are content of the named NIC examinations rather than independent state-exam leaves.
Licensure by endorsement — equivalent training; both examinations completed

All of the following:

Current license
Hold a current corresponding United States jurisdiction license in good standing; provide original licensing-board certification, dated within 60 days, including training and examination history.
Equivalent examinations
The Board accepts substantially equivalent state-administered written and practical examinations. Passing scores for the current NIC examinations are carried as leaves even when obtained before applying. Other jurisdictions' own examinations, and the Board's equivalence determination, remain applicant conditions; accepted equivalent examinations excuse another sitting in Virginia.
Exam sitting
Both substantially equivalent written and practical examinations have already been completed; no new sitting is required.
General qualifications
Meet 18VAC41-20-20(A), including address, law acknowledgment, good standing, disciplinary disclosures and felony disclosures.
Lower ranked training guidance
The January 5, 2026 Board transfer sheet says "you may be eligible to substitute five years of work experience within the United States for training." The controlling 18VAC41-20-30(C) and July 1, 2026 application require three years; this route follows the regulation.
Training
Complete substantially equivalent training or apprenticeship (80% of Virginia hours and corresponding scope).
Licensure by endorsement — equivalent training; practical examination outstanding

All of the following:

Current license
Hold a current corresponding United States jurisdiction license in good standing; provide original licensing-board certification, dated within 60 days, including training and examination history.
Equivalent examinations
The Board accepts substantially equivalent state-administered written and practical examinations. Passing scores for the current NIC examinations are carried as leaves even when obtained before applying. Other jurisdictions' own examinations, and the Board's equivalence determination, remain applicant conditions; accepted equivalent examinations excuse another sitting in Virginia.
Exam sitting
The originating jurisdiction uses only the written examination. Pass the missing practical examination in Virginia under 18VAC41-20-30(B); the other accepted examination is prior-score evidence and may excuse its retaking.
General qualifications
Meet 18VAC41-20-20(A), including address, law acknowledgment, good standing, disciplinary disclosures and felony disclosures.
Lower ranked training guidance
The January 5, 2026 Board transfer sheet says "you may be eligible to substitute five years of work experience within the United States for training." The controlling 18VAC41-20-30(C) and July 1, 2026 application require three years; this route follows the regulation.
Training
Complete substantially equivalent training or apprenticeship (80% of Virginia hours and corresponding scope).
Licensure by endorsement — equivalent training; theory examination outstanding

All of the following:

Current license
Hold a current corresponding United States jurisdiction license in good standing; provide original licensing-board certification, dated within 60 days, including training and examination history.
Equivalent examinations
The Board accepts substantially equivalent state-administered written and practical examinations. Passing scores for the current NIC examinations are carried as leaves even when obtained before applying. Other jurisdictions' own examinations, and the Board's equivalence determination, remain applicant conditions; accepted equivalent examinations excuse another sitting in Virginia.
Exam sitting
The originating jurisdiction uses only the practical examination. Pass the missing theory examination in Virginia under 18VAC41-20-30(B); the other accepted examination is prior-score evidence and may excuse its retaking.
General qualifications
Meet 18VAC41-20-20(A), including address, law acknowledgment, good standing, disciplinary disclosures and felony disclosures.
Lower ranked training guidance
The January 5, 2026 Board transfer sheet says "you may be eligible to substitute five years of work experience within the United States for training." The controlling 18VAC41-20-30(C) and July 1, 2026 application require three years; this route follows the regulation.
Training
Complete substantially equivalent training or apprenticeship (80% of Virginia hours and corresponding scope).
Licensure by endorsement — experience substitution; both examinations completed

All of the following:

Current license
Hold a current corresponding United States jurisdiction license in good standing; provide original licensing-board certification, dated within 60 days, including training and examination history.
Equivalent examinations
The Board accepts substantially equivalent state-administered written and practical examinations. Passing scores for the current NIC examinations are carried as leaves even when obtained before applying. Other jurisdictions' own examinations, and the Board's equivalence determination, remain applicant conditions; accepted equivalent examinations excuse another sitting in Virginia.
Exam sitting
Both substantially equivalent written and practical examinations have already been completed; no new sitting is required.
General qualifications
Meet 18VAC41-20-20(A), including address, law acknowledgment, good standing, disciplinary disclosures and felony disclosures.
Lower ranked training guidance
The January 5, 2026 Board transfer sheet says "you may be eligible to substitute five years of work experience within the United States for training." The controlling 18VAC41-20-30(C) and July 1, 2026 application require three years; this route follows the regulation.
Training
For non-equivalent training, document three years of licensed work experience in another United States jurisdiction in place of training (18VAC41-20-30(C)).
Licensure by endorsement — experience substitution; practical examination outstanding

All of the following:

Current license
Hold a current corresponding United States jurisdiction license in good standing; provide original licensing-board certification, dated within 60 days, including training and examination history.
Equivalent examinations
The Board accepts substantially equivalent state-administered written and practical examinations. Passing scores for the current NIC examinations are carried as leaves even when obtained before applying. Other jurisdictions' own examinations, and the Board's equivalence determination, remain applicant conditions; accepted equivalent examinations excuse another sitting in Virginia.
Exam sitting
The originating jurisdiction uses only the written examination. Pass the missing practical examination in Virginia under 18VAC41-20-30(B); the other accepted examination is prior-score evidence and may excuse its retaking.
General qualifications
Meet 18VAC41-20-20(A), including address, law acknowledgment, good standing, disciplinary disclosures and felony disclosures.
Lower ranked training guidance
The January 5, 2026 Board transfer sheet says "you may be eligible to substitute five years of work experience within the United States for training." The controlling 18VAC41-20-30(C) and July 1, 2026 application require three years; this route follows the regulation.
Training
For non-equivalent training, document three years of licensed work experience in another United States jurisdiction in place of training (18VAC41-20-30(C)).
Licensure by endorsement — experience substitution; theory examination outstanding

All of the following:

Current license
Hold a current corresponding United States jurisdiction license in good standing; provide original licensing-board certification, dated within 60 days, including training and examination history.
Equivalent examinations
The Board accepts substantially equivalent state-administered written and practical examinations. Passing scores for the current NIC examinations are carried as leaves even when obtained before applying. Other jurisdictions' own examinations, and the Board's equivalence determination, remain applicant conditions; accepted equivalent examinations excuse another sitting in Virginia.
Exam sitting
The originating jurisdiction uses only the practical examination. Pass the missing theory examination in Virginia under 18VAC41-20-30(B); the other accepted examination is prior-score evidence and may excuse its retaking.
General qualifications
Meet 18VAC41-20-20(A), including address, law acknowledgment, good standing, disciplinary disclosures and felony disclosures.
Lower ranked training guidance
The January 5, 2026 Board transfer sheet says "you may be eligible to substitute five years of work experience within the United States for training." The controlling 18VAC41-20-30(C) and July 1, 2026 application require three years; this route follows the regulation.
Training
For non-equivalent training, document three years of licensed work experience in another United States jurisdiction in place of training (18VAC41-20-30(C)).
Initial licensure by examination — United States Armed Forces experience

All of the following:

Application documentation
Submit the qualifying training or experience documentation, required reporting forms, signature, current passport-compliant photo, and applicable fees.
Criminal history
Disclose felony convictions within ten years; Board applies Va. Code § 54.1-204 (18VAC41-20-20(A)(4)).
Exam score timing
Both written and practical examinations must be passed within one year of the initial examination date; apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both or retake both (18VAC41-20-60(B),(D)).
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and disclose disciplinary action; Board review may result in denial (18VAC41-20-20(A)(1)).
Identification
Provide a Social Security number or Virginia DMV control number as requested by the application.
Law acknowledgment
Sign a statement that Virginia licensing laws and regulations have been read and understood (18VAC41-20-20(A)(3)).
Physical address
Provide a physical address; a post office box may be secondary (18VAC41-20-20(A)(2)).
Public school language
Graduates trained in a Virginia Department of Education public-school program must take the written exam in English, according to the March 5, 2026 provider bulletin.
Qualification
Document at least two years of cosmetology experience in the United States Armed Forces satisfactory to the Board.
Virginia exam content
The March 5, 2026 Virginia provider bulletin places ten Virginia state-law questions inside the NIC theory examination, referencing 18VAC41-20 for cosmetology. The practical examination uses the core NIC services plus hair removal of the eyebrows by tweezing and simulated soft wax. These are content of the named NIC examinations rather than independent state-exam leaves.
Initial licensure by examination — Education from an institution outside the United States

All of the following:

Application documentation
Submit the qualifying training or experience documentation, required reporting forms, signature, current passport-compliant photo, and applicable fees.
Criminal history
Disclose felony convictions within ten years; Board applies Va. Code § 54.1-204 (18VAC41-20-20(A)(4)).
Exam score timing
Both written and practical examinations must be passed within one year of the initial examination date; apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both or retake both (18VAC41-20-60(B),(D)).
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and disclose disciplinary action; Board review may result in denial (18VAC41-20-20(A)(1)).
Identification
Provide a Social Security number or Virginia DMV control number as requested by the application.
Law acknowledgment
Sign a statement that Virginia licensing laws and regulations have been read and understood (18VAC41-20-20(A)(3)).
Physical address
Provide a physical address; a post office box may be secondary (18VAC41-20-20(A)(2)).
Public school language
Graduates trained in a Virginia Department of Education public-school program must take the written exam in English, according to the March 5, 2026 provider bulletin.
Qualification
Submit a translated, authenticated and evaluated foreign degree; the Board may decline the evaluation. Eligibility requires substantially equivalent training under 18VAC41-20-20(B)(2)(a).
Virginia exam content
The March 5, 2026 Virginia provider bulletin places ten Virginia state-law questions inside the NIC theory examination, referencing 18VAC41-20 for cosmetology. The practical examination uses the core NIC services plus hair removal of the eyebrows by tweezing and simulated soft wax. These are content of the named NIC examinations rather than independent state-exam leaves.
Initial licensure by examination — Virginia master barber experience

All of the following:

Application documentation
Submit the qualifying training or experience documentation, required reporting forms, signature, current passport-compliant photo, and applicable fees.
Criminal history
Disclose felony convictions within ten years; Board applies Va. Code § 54.1-204 (18VAC41-20-20(A)(4)).
Exam score timing
Both written and practical examinations must be passed within one year of the initial examination date; apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both or retake both (18VAC41-20-60(B),(D)).
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and disclose disciplinary action; Board review may result in denial (18VAC41-20-20(A)(1)).
Identification
Provide a Social Security number or Virginia DMV control number as requested by the application.
Law acknowledgment
Sign a statement that Virginia licensing laws and regulations have been read and understood (18VAC41-20-20(A)(3)).
Physical address
Provide a physical address; a post office box may be secondary (18VAC41-20-20(A)(2)).
Public school language
Graduates trained in a Virginia Department of Education public-school program must take the written exam in English, according to the March 5, 2026 provider bulletin.
Qualification
Hold a Virginia master barber license and document at least two years of work experience.
Virginia exam content
The March 5, 2026 Virginia provider bulletin places ten Virginia state-law questions inside the NIC theory examination, referencing 18VAC41-20 for cosmetology. The practical examination uses the core NIC services plus hair removal of the eyebrows by tweezing and simulated soft wax. These are content of the named NIC examinations rather than independent state-exam leaves.
Initial licensure by examination — Non equivalent training with licensed experience

All of the following:

Application documentation
Submit the qualifying training or experience documentation, required reporting forms, signature, current passport-compliant photo, and applicable fees.
Criminal history
Disclose felony convictions within ten years; Board applies Va. Code § 54.1-204 (18VAC41-20-20(A)(4)).
Exam score timing
Both written and practical examinations must be passed within one year of the initial examination date; apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both or retake both (18VAC41-20-60(B),(D)).
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and disclose disciplinary action; Board review may result in denial (18VAC41-20-20(A)(1)).
Identification
Provide a Social Security number or Virginia DMV control number as requested by the application.
Law acknowledgment
Sign a statement that Virginia licensing laws and regulations have been read and understood (18VAC41-20-20(A)(3)).
Physical address
Provide a physical address; a post office box may be secondary (18VAC41-20-20(A)(2)).
Public school language
Graduates trained in a Virginia Department of Education public-school program must take the written exam in English, according to the March 5, 2026 provider bulletin.
Qualification
Complete training that is not substantially equivalent and document three years of cosmetology work experience as a licensee in another United States jurisdiction on the Board form.
Virginia exam content
The March 5, 2026 Virginia provider bulletin places ten Virginia state-law questions inside the NIC theory examination, referencing 18VAC41-20 for cosmetology. The practical examination uses the core NIC services plus hair removal of the eyebrows by tweezing and simulated soft wax. These are content of the named NIC examinations rather than independent state-exam leaves.
Initial licensure by examination — Substantially equivalent training outside Virginia

All of the following:

Application documentation
Submit the qualifying training or experience documentation, required reporting forms, signature, current passport-compliant photo, and applicable fees.
Criminal history
Disclose felony convictions within ten years; Board applies Va. Code § 54.1-204 (18VAC41-20-20(A)(4)).
Exam score timing
Both written and practical examinations must be passed within one year of the initial examination date; apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both or retake both (18VAC41-20-60(B),(D)).
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and disclose disciplinary action; Board review may result in denial (18VAC41-20-20(A)(1)).
Identification
Provide a Social Security number or Virginia DMV control number as requested by the application.
Law acknowledgment
Sign a statement that Virginia licensing laws and regulations have been read and understood (18VAC41-20-20(A)(3)).
Physical address
Provide a physical address; a post office box may be secondary (18VAC41-20-20(A)(2)).
Public school language
Graduates trained in a Virginia Department of Education public-school program must take the written exam in English, according to the March 5, 2026 provider bulletin.
Qualification
Complete an out-of-state cosmetology training or apprenticeship program that covers the Virginia scope and at least 80% of the required Virginia hours; document equivalence.
Virginia exam content
The March 5, 2026 Virginia provider bulletin places ten Virginia state-law questions inside the NIC theory examination, referencing 18VAC41-20 for cosmetology. The practical examination uses the core NIC services plus hair removal of the eyebrows by tweezing and simulated soft wax. These are content of the named NIC examinations rather than independent state-exam leaves.
Initial licensure by examination — Registered Virginia apprenticeship

All of the following:

Application documentation
Submit the qualifying training or experience documentation, required reporting forms, signature, current passport-compliant photo, and applicable fees.
Criminal history
Disclose felony convictions within ten years; Board applies Va. Code § 54.1-204 (18VAC41-20-20(A)(4)).
Exam score timing
Both written and practical examinations must be passed within one year of the initial examination date; apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both or retake both (18VAC41-20-60(B),(D)).
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and disclose disciplinary action; Board review may result in denial (18VAC41-20-20(A)(1)).
Identification
Provide a Social Security number or Virginia DMV control number as requested by the application.
Law acknowledgment
Sign a statement that Virginia licensing laws and regulations have been read and understood (18VAC41-20-20(A)(3)).
Physical address
Provide a physical address; a post office box may be secondary (18VAC41-20-20(A)(2)).
Public school language
Graduates trained in a Virginia Department of Education public-school program must take the written exam in English, according to the March 5, 2026 provider bulletin.
Qualification
Complete a registered cosmetology apprenticeship and submit the Department of Workforce Development and Advancement completion documentation.
Virginia exam content
The March 5, 2026 Virginia provider bulletin places ten Virginia state-law questions inside the NIC theory examination, referencing 18VAC41-20 for cosmetology. The practical examination uses the core NIC services plus hair removal of the eyebrows by tweezing and simulated soft wax. These are content of the named NIC examinations rather than independent state-exam leaves.
Initial licensure by examination — Virginia licensed school training

All of the following:

Application documentation
Submit the qualifying training or experience documentation, required reporting forms, signature, current passport-compliant photo, and applicable fees.
Criminal history
Disclose felony convictions within ten years; Board applies Va. Code § 54.1-204 (18VAC41-20-20(A)(4)).
Exam score timing
Both written and practical examinations must be passed within one year of the initial examination date; apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both or retake both (18VAC41-20-60(B),(D)).
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and disclose disciplinary action; Board review may result in denial (18VAC41-20-20(A)(1)).
Identification
Provide a Social Security number or Virginia DMV control number as requested by the application.
Law acknowledgment
Sign a statement that Virginia licensing laws and regulations have been read and understood (18VAC41-20-20(A)(3)).
Physical address
Provide a physical address; a post office box may be secondary (18VAC41-20-20(A)(2)).
Public school language
Graduates trained in a Virginia Department of Education public-school program must take the written exam in English, according to the March 5, 2026 provider bulletin.
Qualification
Complete the approved cosmetology program in a Virginia licensed cosmetology school; current curricula require at least 1,000 clock hours and the performances in 18VAC41-20-220(D).
Virginia exam content
The March 5, 2026 Virginia provider bulletin places ten Virginia state-law questions inside the NIC theory examination, referencing 18VAC41-20 for cosmetology. The practical examination uses the core NIC services plus hair removal of the eyebrows by tweezing and simulated soft wax. These are content of the named NIC examinations rather than independent state-exam leaves.
Initial licensure by examination — Virginia public school training

All of the following:

Application documentation
Submit the qualifying training or experience documentation, required reporting forms, signature, current passport-compliant photo, and applicable fees.
Criminal history
Disclose felony convictions within ten years; Board applies Va. Code § 54.1-204 (18VAC41-20-20(A)(4)).
Exam score timing
Both written and practical examinations must be passed within one year of the initial examination date; apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both or retake both (18VAC41-20-60(B),(D)).
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and disclose disciplinary action; Board review may result in denial (18VAC41-20-20(A)(1)).
Identification
Provide a Social Security number or Virginia DMV control number as requested by the application.
Law acknowledgment
Sign a statement that Virginia licensing laws and regulations have been read and understood (18VAC41-20-20(A)(3)).
Physical address
Provide a physical address; a post office box may be secondary (18VAC41-20-20(A)(2)).
Public school language
Graduates trained in a Virginia Department of Education public-school program must take the written exam in English, according to the March 5, 2026 provider bulletin.
Qualification
Complete a Virginia Department of Education approved public-school cosmetology program.
Virginia exam content
The March 5, 2026 Virginia provider bulletin places ten Virginia state-law questions inside the NIC theory examination, referencing 18VAC41-20 for cosmetology. The practical examination uses the core NIC services plus hair removal of the eyebrows by tweezing and simulated soft wax. These are content of the named NIC examinations rather than independent state-exam leaves.
Initial licensure by examination — Virginia state institution training

All of the following:

Application documentation
Submit the qualifying training or experience documentation, required reporting forms, signature, current passport-compliant photo, and applicable fees.
Criminal history
Disclose felony convictions within ten years; Board applies Va. Code § 54.1-204 (18VAC41-20-20(A)(4)).
Exam score timing
Both written and practical examinations must be passed within one year of the initial examination date; apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both or retake both (18VAC41-20-60(B),(D)).
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and disclose disciplinary action; Board review may result in denial (18VAC41-20-20(A)(1)).
Identification
Provide a Social Security number or Virginia DMV control number as requested by the application.
Law acknowledgment
Sign a statement that Virginia licensing laws and regulations have been read and understood (18VAC41-20-20(A)(3)).
Physical address
Provide a physical address; a post office box may be secondary (18VAC41-20-20(A)(2)).
Public school language
Graduates trained in a Virginia Department of Education public-school program must take the written exam in English, according to the March 5, 2026 provider bulletin.
Qualification
Complete cosmetology training in an approved Virginia state institution.
Virginia exam content
The March 5, 2026 Virginia provider bulletin places ten Virginia state-law questions inside the NIC theory examination, referencing 18VAC41-20 for cosmetology. The practical examination uses the core NIC services plus hair removal of the eyebrows by tweezing and simulated soft wax. These are content of the named NIC examinations rather than independent state-exam leaves.
Expedited issuance for military spouses

All of the following:

Comparable license
Hold the same or similar license or certificate elsewhere; provide a complete corresponding application and documentation for Board substantial-equivalence review.
Experience waiver
Board may waive experience requirements on adequate documentation.
Other examinations
Submit a complete permanent-license application. For cosmetologists, NIC written and practical examination requirements of that application remain leaves, with equivalent examinations and prior passing scores controlling whether another sitting is needed. For instructors, the existing-license endorsement application uses its unnamed originating-jurisdiction qualifications as conditions.
Spouse status
Accompany a spouse on federal Title 10 active-duty orders, or a qualifying veteran who left active duty within one year of applying, to Virginia or an adjoining jurisdiction.
Universal license recognition — existing government license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Criminal record
No disqualifying criminal record under Va. Code § 54.1-204.
Documentation
Submit the universal-recognition application, all licensing history and regulatory-body certifications dated within 60 days, and fees.
Jurisprudence discretion
Va. Code § 54.1-205(E) permits a jurisprudential exam only if required of other applicants for the same credential. The application repeats this permission but names no independently administered examination; it remains a condition.
Originating qualification
The original licensing authority required an examination and education, training or experience; the unspecified original examination is an applicant condition, not an invented exact-version leaf.
Similar scope
Hold a current government license or certificate in a similar scope of practice for at least one year.
Standing
Be in good standing, with no pending investigations or unresolved complaints and no disqualifying discipline except a financial penalty causing no harm to public health or economic well-being.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Universal license recognition — work in an unregulated jurisdiction

All of the following:

Application documentation
Submit the qualifying training or experience documentation, required reporting forms, signature, current passport-compliant photo, and applicable fees.
Criminal history
Disclose felony convictions within ten years; Board applies Va. Code § 54.1-204 (18VAC41-20-20(A)(4)).
Exam score timing
Both written and practical examinations must be passed within one year of the initial examination date; apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both or retake both (18VAC41-20-60(B),(D)).
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and disclose disciplinary action; Board review may result in denial (18VAC41-20-20(A)(1)).
Identification
Provide a Social Security number or Virginia DMV control number as requested by the application.
Law acknowledgment
Sign a statement that Virginia licensing laws and regulations have been read and understood (18VAC41-20-20(A)(3)).
Physical address
Provide a physical address; a post office box may be secondary (18VAC41-20-20(A)(2)).
Public school language
Graduates trained in a Virginia Department of Education public-school program must take the written exam in English, according to the March 5, 2026 provider bulletin.
Qualification
Document at least three years of cosmetology work in a United States jurisdiction that does not regulate the profession; submit the Board experience-verification form.
Standing
Satisfy Va. Code § 54.1-205(B)(5)-(7); the Board application asks about previous examination completion and accepts documentation of successful National/Board-approved examination completion.
Virginia exam content
The March 5, 2026 Virginia provider bulletin places ten Virginia state-law questions inside the NIC theory examination, referencing 18VAC41-20 for cosmetology. The practical examination uses the core NIC services plus hair removal of the eyebrows by tweezing and simulated soft wax. These are content of the named NIC examinations rather than independent state-exam leaves.

Temporary Cosmetology License

Licensing authority: Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology · Application information

Temporary supervised practice pending examination

All of the following:

Denial grounds
No grounds to deny under Va. Code § 54.1-204 or 18VAC41-20-20.
Duration
One nonrenewable temporary license lasting 90 days; no fee and no subsequent temporary license.
Eligibility
Be an initial cosmetology licensure applicant found eligible for examination. The Board FAQ additionally requires the applicant to be scheduled for examination.
Supervision
Work under direct supervision of a currently Virginia-licensed cosmetologist.

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

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