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New Hampshire Esthetician — 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.

Esthetics License

Personal license to practice esthetics under RSA 313-A:13.

Licensing authority: New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics / Office of Professional Licensure and Certification · Application information

Licensure by endorsement / reciprocity
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Equivalence Waiver
Under Plc 313.11 an applicant may request a Plc 211 waiver of stated equivalence criteria based on education, training and actual licensed work experience.
Foreign Credentials
A foreign-jurisdiction applicant must submit a NACES-member or AICE-member credential evaluation under Plc 313.12(a).
Legal Reading
RSA 310:17 authorizes issuance on the existing qualifying license notwithstanding other state law. Plc 313.18(c) describes that licensing jurisdiction’s generic state-approved examination; it identifies neither a particular currently offered nationwide exam nor a New Hampshire examination for this route. Prior licensure and that unresolved examination identity are applicant conditions.
License
Active, non-temporary, unencumbered license in good standing in a jurisdiction with substantially similar current licensing requirements under Plc 313.01(b).
Meaning Of State Approved
(f) “State-approved” means approved by the licensing jurisdiction, whether a state, territory, county, county-equivalent, or municipality.
Primary Verification
Primary-source verification of the existing license, universal initial application and applicable fee under Plc 313.03–.05.
Prior Competency Examination
(c) For an esthetician license, the following: (1) Graduate from a state-approved education or training program for estheticians; and (2) Pass a state-approved competency examination for estheticians;
Vendor General Statement
The Prov January 2026 bulletin says all license categories must pass both written and practical exams. This general testing instruction is subject to RSA 310:17 and the specific endorsement rules.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure after approved training outside New Hampshire

All of the following:

Application
Submit the universal initial application, profession-specific application, high school diploma or equivalent, applicable fee and examination results sent directly to OPLC by the testing organization.
Education
High school education or its equivalent under RSA 313-A:11 I(b), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Optional Eyelash Testing
The January 2026 Prov bulletin offers the NIC Eyelash & Eyebrow Technician examination optionally to New Hampshire candidates from January 1, 2026. Its page 6 does not identify it as a substitute for the required NIC Esthetics examinations or as a separate esthetics license; this optional testing notice is not treated as a licensing requirement.
Oral Administration
(a) An oral exam shall be given, in English only, in place of the written examination, if the applicant requests in writing an oral exam from the testing agency or the board. (b) The written request required by (a), above, shall include: (1) The name of applicant; (2) His/her signature; and (3) Current date.
Passing Standard
Bar 303.04(e) and Bar 303.06(b) require 75% on the written and practical examinations; the January 2026 Prov bulletin states an overall passing scaled score of 75.00 for each.
Professional Character
Good professional character under RSA 313-A:11 I(a), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Training
Complete the required hours in a school approved by its licensing jurisdiction; supply the board letter certifying enrollment, completion and hours under Bar 301.07(d)–(e).
Training Credit
RSA 313-A:13 allows school-certified equivalent cosmetology or barber training, board-approved equivalent massage therapy training, and cosmetologists to accumulate required subjects at separate schools with certifications.
New licensure after revocation

All of the following:

Application
Submit the universal initial application, profession-specific application, high school diploma or equivalent, applicable fee and examination results sent directly to OPLC by the testing organization.
Board Decision
OPLC may refer eligibility or conditional licensure to the board for a licensing proceeding.
Continuing Competence
Meet the continuing competence requirements stated in Plc 312.05(a)(1)(b) for the preceding two years.
Disciplinary Order
Satisfy revocation-order terms, any applicable waiting period, and all imposed monetary penalties and costs.
Education
High school education or its equivalent under RSA 313-A:11 I(b), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Optional Eyelash Testing
The January 2026 Prov bulletin offers the NIC Eyelash & Eyebrow Technician examination optionally to New Hampshire candidates from January 1, 2026. Its page 6 does not identify it as a substitute for the required NIC Esthetics examinations or as a separate esthetics license; this optional testing notice is not treated as a licensing requirement.
Oral Administration
(a) An oral exam shall be given, in English only, in place of the written examination, if the applicant requests in writing an oral exam from the testing agency or the board. (b) The written request required by (a), above, shall include: (1) The name of applicant; (2) His/her signature; and (3) Current date.
Passing Standard
Bar 303.04(e) and Bar 303.06(b) require 75% on the written and practical examinations; the January 2026 Prov bulletin states an overall passing scaled score of 75.00 for each.
Prior Scores
The January 2026 Prov bulletin allows retesting after a previous pass only when required by the state. Previously passed currently offered NIC Esthetics examinations remain leaves; whether a new sitting is required is an applicant condition.
Professional Character
Good professional character under RSA 313-A:11 I(a), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Training Credit
RSA 313-A:13 allows school-certified equivalent cosmetology or barber training, board-approved equivalent massage therapy training, and cosmetologists to accumulate required subjects at separate schools with certifications.
New licensure after lapse exceeding one year

All of the following:

Application
Submit the universal initial application, profession-specific application, high school diploma or equivalent, applicable fee and examination results sent directly to OPLC by the testing organization.
Education
High school education or its equivalent under RSA 313-A:11 I(b), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Fees
Initial application fees apply without additional late fee or penalty.
Lapse
License expired more than one year; apply for initial licensure and meet applicable additional competency requirements.
Optional Eyelash Testing
The January 2026 Prov bulletin offers the NIC Eyelash & Eyebrow Technician examination optionally to New Hampshire candidates from January 1, 2026. Its page 6 does not identify it as a substitute for the required NIC Esthetics examinations or as a separate esthetics license; this optional testing notice is not treated as a licensing requirement.
Oral Administration
(a) An oral exam shall be given, in English only, in place of the written examination, if the applicant requests in writing an oral exam from the testing agency or the board. (b) The written request required by (a), above, shall include: (1) The name of applicant; (2) His/her signature; and (3) Current date.
Passing Standard
Bar 303.04(e) and Bar 303.06(b) require 75% on the written and practical examinations; the January 2026 Prov bulletin states an overall passing scaled score of 75.00 for each.
Prior Scores
The January 2026 Prov bulletin allows retesting after a previous pass only when required by the state. Previously passed currently offered NIC Esthetics examinations remain leaves; whether a new sitting is required is an applicant condition.
Professional Character
Good professional character under RSA 313-A:11 I(a), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Training Credit
RSA 313-A:13 allows school-certified equivalent cosmetology or barber training, board-approved equivalent massage therapy training, and cosmetologists to accumulate required subjects at separate schools with certifications.
New licensure after missed suspension restoration deadline

All of the following:

Application
Submit the universal initial application, profession-specific application, high school diploma or equivalent, applicable fee and examination results sent directly to OPLC by the testing organization.
Deadline
Missed the restoration or reinstatement period in Plc 312.04(a); apply for initial licensure.
Education
High school education or its equivalent under RSA 313-A:11 I(b), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Optional Eyelash Testing
The January 2026 Prov bulletin offers the NIC Eyelash & Eyebrow Technician examination optionally to New Hampshire candidates from January 1, 2026. Its page 6 does not identify it as a substitute for the required NIC Esthetics examinations or as a separate esthetics license; this optional testing notice is not treated as a licensing requirement.
Oral Administration
(a) An oral exam shall be given, in English only, in place of the written examination, if the applicant requests in writing an oral exam from the testing agency or the board. (b) The written request required by (a), above, shall include: (1) The name of applicant; (2) His/her signature; and (3) Current date.
Passing Standard
Bar 303.04(e) and Bar 303.06(b) require 75% on the written and practical examinations; the January 2026 Prov bulletin states an overall passing scaled score of 75.00 for each.
Prior Scores
The January 2026 Prov bulletin allows retesting after a previous pass only when required by the state. Previously passed currently offered NIC Esthetics examinations remain leaves; whether a new sitting is required is an applicant condition.
Professional Character
Good professional character under RSA 313-A:11 I(a), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Training Credit
RSA 313-A:13 allows school-certified equivalent cosmetology or barber training, board-approved equivalent massage therapy training, and cosmetologists to accumulate required subjects at separate schools with certifications.
Reactivation after reserve or National Guard active duty
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Written signed reactivation request with identity, license number, profession, release date and designated email.
Deadline
Request reactivation within one year after release from active duty.
Prior Status
License placed on inactive status after call to active duty under RSA 310:8(V) and Plc 307.06.
Renewal
If the license term expired, pay the renewal fee and show applicable continuing competence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement within one year after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Complete the renewal process under Plc 308 and pay applicable reinstatement fees.
Conflicting Older Rule
Bar 401.01(c)(4)–(5) retains older late-renewal fee periods, including up to five years; RSA 310:8(III) and Plc 312.02–.03 govern lapse after one year.
Eligibility
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain or re-obtain required certifications or other credentials.
Practice
Do not practice while the license is expired.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Timely universal renewal application and applicable fee; provide any profession-specific information and truthful background disclosures.
Eligibility
Meet applicable continuing competence and other renewal requirements, pay assessed monetary penalties, and satisfy the professional-character standard.
Scope
Renewal preserves this credential; it does not issue a new personal license or add an instructor category.
Term
RSA 310:8 establishes the current licensing term; apprentices may have a one-year term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration or timely reinstatement after suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Written request if unexpired; otherwise use the reinstatement process and applicable fees.
Case Specific Requirements
Any unidentified examination imposed by an individual disciplinary order is an applicant condition; the generally applicable restoration rule does not identify a currently offered exam.
Compliance
Demonstrate compliance with the suspension order and correction plan, required continuing competence, penalties and imposed costs.
Deadline
Apply within 30 days after suspension ends if the license has not expired, or seek reinstatement within one year after expiration as provided by Plc 312.04.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure with statutory historical examination exemption
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Education
Meet RSA 313-A:11 I(a), (b) and (e): professional character, high school education or equivalent, and fee.
Prior Practice
Professionally practiced esthetics in New Hampshire for at least three years before July 1, 1989.
Training
Meet RSA 313-A:13 training requirements; the exemption waives the examination only.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure after approved school training

All of the following:

Application
Submit the universal initial application, profession-specific application, high school diploma or equivalent, applicable fee and examination results sent directly to OPLC by the testing organization.
Education
High school education or its equivalent under RSA 313-A:11 I(b), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Optional Eyelash Testing
The January 2026 Prov bulletin offers the NIC Eyelash & Eyebrow Technician examination optionally to New Hampshire candidates from January 1, 2026. Its page 6 does not identify it as a substitute for the required NIC Esthetics examinations or as a separate esthetics license; this optional testing notice is not treated as a licensing requirement.
Oral Administration
(a) An oral exam shall be given, in English only, in place of the written examination, if the applicant requests in writing an oral exam from the testing agency or the board. (b) The written request required by (a), above, shall include: (1) The name of applicant; (2) His/her signature; and (3) Current date.
Passing Standard
Bar 303.04(e) and Bar 303.06(b) require 75% on the written and practical examinations; the January 2026 Prov bulletin states an overall passing scaled score of 75.00 for each.
Professional Character
Good professional character under RSA 313-A:11 I(a), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Training
At least 600 hours in an approved esthetics school under RSA 313-A:13.
Training Credit
RSA 313-A:13 allows school-certified equivalent cosmetology or barber training, board-approved equivalent massage therapy training, and cosmetologists to accumulate required subjects at separate schools with certifications.
Initial licensure after approved shop apprenticeship

All of the following:

Application
Submit the universal initial application, profession-specific application, high school diploma or equivalent, applicable fee and examination results sent directly to OPLC by the testing organization.
Education
High school education or its equivalent under RSA 313-A:11 I(b), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Optional Eyelash Testing
The January 2026 Prov bulletin offers the NIC Eyelash & Eyebrow Technician examination optionally to New Hampshire candidates from January 1, 2026. Its page 6 does not identify it as a substitute for the required NIC Esthetics examinations or as a separate esthetics license; this optional testing notice is not treated as a licensing requirement.
Oral Administration
(a) An oral exam shall be given, in English only, in place of the written examination, if the applicant requests in writing an oral exam from the testing agency or the board. (b) The written request required by (a), above, shall include: (1) The name of applicant; (2) His/her signature; and (3) Current date.
Passing Standard
Bar 303.04(e) and Bar 303.06(b) require 75% on the written and practical examinations; the January 2026 Prov bulletin states an overall passing scaled score of 75.00 for each.
Professional Character
Good professional character under RSA 313-A:11 I(a), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Training
Board-approved apprenticeship substituted for school training; Bar 301.03(b)(4) specifies 1,200 shop apprenticeship hours.
Training Credit
RSA 313-A:13 allows school-certified equivalent cosmetology or barber training, board-approved equivalent massage therapy training, and cosmetologists to accumulate required subjects at separate schools with certifications.

Temporary Esthetics Permit

Supervised practice pending the esthetics licensing examinations.

Licensing authority: New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics / Office of Professional Licensure and Certification · Application information

Temporary supervised practice pending licensing examinations

All of the following:

Application
Submit the universal initial application, profession-specific application, high school diploma or equivalent, applicable fee and examination results sent directly to OPLC by the testing organization.
Education
High school education or its equivalent under RSA 313-A:11 I(b), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Eligibility
Eligible to take the esthetics licensing examinations and approved under Bar 301.07(g).
Optional Eyelash Testing
The January 2026 Prov bulletin offers the NIC Eyelash & Eyebrow Technician examination optionally to New Hampshire candidates from January 1, 2026. Its page 6 does not identify it as a substitute for the required NIC Esthetics examinations or as a separate esthetics license; this optional testing notice is not treated as a licensing requirement.
Oral Administration
(a) An oral exam shall be given, in English only, in place of the written examination, if the applicant requests in writing an oral exam from the testing agency or the board. (b) The written request required by (a), above, shall include: (1) The name of applicant; (2) His/her signature; and (3) Current date.
Passing Standard
Bar 303.04(e) and Bar 303.06(b) require 75% on the written and practical examinations; the January 2026 Prov bulletin states an overall passing scaled score of 75.00 for each.
Professional Character
Good professional character under RSA 313-A:11 I(a), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Supervision
Practice under guidance of a licensed practitioner in a registered salon with immediate access to a licensee.
Termination
Failure without just cause to attend the examination terminates the permit. The initial permit is pending that examination.
Training Credit
RSA 313-A:13 allows school-certified equivalent cosmetology or barber training, board-approved equivalent massage therapy training, and cosmetologists to accumulate required subjects at separate schools with certifications.
Second temporary permit after failed licensing examination

All of the following:

Application
Submit the universal initial application, profession-specific application, high school diploma or equivalent, applicable fee and examination results sent directly to OPLC by the testing organization.
Discretion
After failure the office may grant a second permit under the same supervision conditions.
Duration
The second permit expires 60 days after issuance unless just cause for failure to take the examination satisfies the board.
Education
High school education or its equivalent under RSA 313-A:11 I(b), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Optional Eyelash Testing
The January 2026 Prov bulletin offers the NIC Eyelash & Eyebrow Technician examination optionally to New Hampshire candidates from January 1, 2026. Its page 6 does not identify it as a substitute for the required NIC Esthetics examinations or as a separate esthetics license; this optional testing notice is not treated as a licensing requirement.
Oral Administration
(a) An oral exam shall be given, in English only, in place of the written examination, if the applicant requests in writing an oral exam from the testing agency or the board. (b) The written request required by (a), above, shall include: (1) The name of applicant; (2) His/her signature; and (3) Current date.
Passing Standard
Bar 303.04(e) and Bar 303.06(b) require 75% on the written and practical examinations; the January 2026 Prov bulletin states an overall passing scaled score of 75.00 for each.
Professional Character
Good professional character under RSA 313-A:11 I(a), incorporated by RSA 313-A:13.
Training Credit
RSA 313-A:13 allows school-certified equivalent cosmetology or barber training, board-approved equivalent massage therapy training, and cosmetologists to accumulate required subjects at separate schools with certifications.

National Esthetics Practical Examination

This assessment does not have a question bank.

Provider
National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); administered by Test Administration companies and States upon approval and authorization of NIC
Format
Performance (practical) examination on a mannequin in six timed or untimed core sections evaluated by examiners; States may add NIC additional sections (Eyelash Enhancement, Hair Removal of the Upper Lip with Hard Wax, Hard Wax of the Eyebrow, Particle Microdermabrasion); candidates bring their own supply kit
Examination sources

National Esthetics Theory Examination

Provider
National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); administered by Test Administration companies and States upon approval and authorization of NIC
Format
Theory examination of four-option multiple-choice items, only one option correct
Exam questions
110 items, of which 100 are weighted and contribute to the final score
Time limit
90 minutes
Examination outline
  • SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS (55%) (55%)
    • Basic knowledge of microbiology (i.e., bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi)
    • Apply knowledge of infection control procedures related to: — Levels of infection control (i.e., sanitation, disinfection, sterilization)
    • Apply knowledge of infection control procedures related to: — Methods of infection control (i.e., heat, chemical agents)
    • Apply knowledge of safety procedures and guidelines related to: — Standard (Universal) Precautions
    • Apply knowledge of safety procedures and guidelines related to: — Blood exposure procedures
    • Apply knowledge of safety procedures and guidelines related to: — Safety Data Sheets (SDS) (e.g., manufacturer’s labeling)
    • Apply knowledge of safety procedures and guidelines related to: — Handling of chemicals
    • Demonstrate a basic understanding of human physiology and anatomy related to: — Cells and their functions
    • Demonstrate a basic understanding of human physiology and anatomy related to: — Tissues (i.e., epithelial, connective, nerve, muscular)
    • Demonstrate a basic understanding of human physiology and anatomy related to: — Organs and their function (e.g., skin, lungs, heart)
    • Demonstrate a basic understanding of human physiology and anatomy related to: — Systems and their functions (e.g., muscular, integumentary, nervous, endocrine, skeletal)
    • Demonstrate an understanding of histology and physiology of the skin related to: — Structure and function of the layers of the skin
    • Demonstrate an understanding of histology and physiology of the skin related to: — Structure and function of the glands
    • Demonstrate an understanding of histology and physiology of the skin related to: — Functions of the skin (e.g., protection, temperature regulation, absorption)
    • Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Disorders of the sebaceous gland (e.g., acne, milia, seborrhea)
    • Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Disorders of the sudoriferous gland (e.g., hyperhidrosis, bromhydrosis, anhidrosis)
    • Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Contagious diseases (e.g., bacterial conjunctivitis, herpes simplex, tinea)
    • Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Skin inflammations (e.g., dermatitis, eczema, rosacea)
    • Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Skin pigmentation (i.e., hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation)
    • Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Skin growths (e.g., skin tags, moles, keratoma)
    • Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Skin cancers (i.e., basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma)
    • Recognize and understand skin disorders and diseases related to: — Primary and secondary skin lesions
    • Understanding function and composition of the hair related to: — Structure of the hair and its follicle
    • Understanding function and composition of the hair related to: — Growth cycles
    • Understanding function and composition of the hair related to: — Abnormal hair growth (e.g., hirsutism, hypertrichosis)
    • Understanding basic chemistry as related to: — Ingredients
    • Understanding basic chemistry as related to: — Labeling
    • Understanding basic chemistry as related to: — Function (e.g., hydration, protection, cleanse)
    • Understanding basic chemistry as related to: — Acidity/Alkalinity (i.e., pH)
  • SKIN CARE AND SERVICES (45%) (45%)
    • Demonstrate an understanding of performing a client consultation and documentation (e.g., health history, intake form, consultation chart, physician release) — Apply knowledge of client protection (i.e., draping of head and body)
    • Demonstrate an understanding of performing a client consultation and documentation (e.g., health history, intake form, consultation chart, physician release) — Skin analysis (e.g., Fitzpatrick skin types/conditions/characteristics)
    • Demonstrate an understanding of performing a client consultation and documentation (e.g., health history, intake form, consultation chart, physician release) — Contraindications for skin services
    • Demonstrate an understanding of performing a client consultation and documentation (e.g., health history, intake form, consultation chart, physician release) — Treatment protocol
    • Demonstrate an understanding of basic facial procedures
    • Demonstrate an understanding of cleansing procedures
    • Demonstrate an understanding of steaming procedures
    • Demonstrate an understanding of exfoliation procedures (i.e., chemical, mechanical/manual)
    • Demonstrate a basic understanding of massage movements
    • Demonstrate an understanding of methods of extraction
    • Demonstrate an understanding of the functions and applications of masks related to clay/mud (e.g., cream, gel, clay/mud)
    • Demonstrate an understanding of the conclusion of facial services: — Treat/moisturize (e.g., treatment cream, serum)
    • Demonstrate an understanding of the conclusion of facial services: — Sun protection
    • Demonstrate an understanding of the conclusion of facial services: — Home care (i.e., after care)
    • Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the use of electrical equipment used in skin services
    • Demonstrate an understanding of makeup as related to: — Principles (e.g., color theory)
    • Demonstrate an understanding of makeup as related to: — Product selection (e.g., lipstick, foundation)
    • Demonstrate an understanding of makeup as related to: — Application (e.g., contouring, highlighting, blending)
    • Demonstrate an understanding of makeup as related to: — Safety (e.g., bracing)
    • Demonstrate an understanding of makeup as related to: — Infection control (e.g., disposables, disinfection of tools)
    • Demonstrate a basic knowledge of other services related to: — Facial services (e.g., aromatherapy, pre- and post-surgical/medical treatments, ultrasonic)
    • Demonstrate a basic knowledge of other services related to: — Body treatments (body wraps, body scrubs, sunless tanning)
    • Demonstrate a basic knowledge of other services related to: — Eyelash and eyebrow services (e.g., lash and brow tinting, artificial lashes, lash lifting/perming)
    • Demonstrate a basic knowledge of other services related to: — Demonstrate an understanding of hair removal methods and procedures (i.e., waxing, tweezing)
    • Demonstrate a basic knowledge of other services related to: — Wellness programs
    • Demonstrates basic knowledge of advanced topics and treatments (e.g., dermaplaning, nano infusion, microdermabrasion)
Examination sources