Free Written Theory Examination Practice Questions

Sample Practice Questions

Try these 10 sample questions from the Written Theory Examination practice bank. Each includes the answer and explanation. Continue with the interactive practice above to review the full question set.

1. 1After cleaning a reusable comb, how must a Florida salon perform wet disinfection?

   1. A.Mist only the teeth and air-dry it
   2. B.Fully immerse it in a covered wet container for the label contact timeCorrect answer: B
   3. C.Place it in ultraviolet storage without disinfectant
   4. D.Wipe it once with plain water

   Explanation: The rule defines the container as "large enough to allow for a complete immersion of the articles" and adds, "A cover shall be provided." The disinfectant must be used according to its label.

   Reference: 61 G 5 20 002 — Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G5-20.002(2)(e), (3)(b)

2. 2A client reports persistent irritation after stopping use of an eye cosmetic. What referral is appropriate?

   1. A.Advise the client to see a doctorCorrect answer: A
   2. B.Refer the client to the cosmetic retailer
   3. C.Refer the client to the product manufacturer's customer-service line
   4. D.Defer the issue to the client's next salon consultation

   Explanation: FDA directs, "If irritation persists, see a doctor." Because the irritation continued after the product was stopped, referral to a doctor is the appropriate response.

   Reference: Eye Cosmetic Safety | FDA — Safety Checklist

3. 3How should a retail eye-cosmetic tester be applied to reduce cross-contamination?

   1. A.With a single-use applicatorCorrect answer: A
   2. B.Directly from a shared wand
   3. C.With the customer's finger
   4. D.With a reusable sponge used all day

   Explanation: For store testers, FDA says to "make sure they are applied with single-use applicators, such as clean cotton swabs." A shared wand, finger, or all-day sponge increases cross-contamination risk.

   Reference: Eye Cosmetic Safety | FDA — Don't share! Don't swap!

4. 4Why should methacrylate monomer used for artificial nails be kept off the client's skin?

   1. A.To reduce the chance of an allergic reactionCorrect answer: A
   2. B.To make the product cure more slowly
   3. C.To remove natural nail pigment
   4. D.To increase cuticle growth

   Explanation: FDA states, "It is important to avoid contact with the skin in order to minimize the chance of an allergic reaction." Keeping monomer off the skin addresses sensitization risk.

   Reference: Nail Care Products | FDA — Methacrylate Monomers in Artificial Nails

5. 5What must accompany an application to operate a Florida cosmetology salon?

   1. A.The requested relevant information and an application feeCorrect answer: A
   2. B.A cosmetology examination score and renewal fee
   3. C.A mobile-salon itinerary and delinquent fee
   4. D.A school transcript and endorsement fee

   Explanation: Section 477.025(3) requires an application "accompanied by any relevant information requested by the department and by an application fee." Those two items therefore accompany a salon application.

   Reference: Chapter 477 Section 025 - 2025 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate — Fla. Stat. § 477.025

6. 6What must occur before a reusable salon implement is placed in disinfectant?

   1. A.Clean the article with soap and waterCorrect answer: A
   2. B.Completely immerse the article in disinfectant
   3. C.Store the article in a clean, closed cabinet
   4. D.Place the article in ultraviolet storage

   Explanation: The required sequence begins, "First, clean articles with soap and water." Immersion and clean storage occur only after that cleaning step; ultraviolet irradiation is a post-disinfection storage method.

   Reference: 61 G 5 20 002 — Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G5-20.002(3)(c)

7. 7Which client preparation is specifically required for a safe hair-color service?

   1. A.Effective protective drapingCorrect answer: A
   2. B.A foot soak
   3. C.A nail wrap
   4. D.A dry scalp massage

   Explanation: The incorporated standard requires the student to "Demonstrate the practice of effective draping of the client to insure safety." Protective draping is therefore the specified preparation for the color service.

   Reference: Human Services 2024 (2025) — 2024–2025 Cosmetology standards, Hair Coloring benchmark 22.02

8. 8What should be checked before applying false-eyelash adhesive?

   1. A.The adhesive's ingredientsCorrect answer: A
   2. B.The client's shoe size
   3. C.The salon's floor plan
   4. D.The hair-color developer strength

   Explanation: FDA cautions that "the eyelids are delicate" and directs, "Check the ingredients before using these adhesives." The adhesive ingredient list is therefore the relevant pre-application check.

   Reference: Eye Cosmetic Safety | FDA — Thinking of false eyelashes or extensions?

9. 9Which knowledge supports safely shaping a natural nail and caring for cuticles?

   1. A.Nail anatomy, skin and nail disorders, product chemistry, angles, and curvesCorrect answer: A
   2. B.Only hair density and elasticity
   3. C.Only facial bone structure
   4. D.Only shampoo chemistry

   Explanation: Benchmark 15.04 names "anatomy of the nail structure, diseases and disorders of the skin and nail, chemistry of compounds" together with angles and curves as the knowledge used for shaping and cuticle care.

   Reference: Human Services 2024 (2025) — 2024–2025 Cosmetology standards, Nail benchmark 15.04

10. 10After receiving a proposed Florida salon's license application, what may the department do?

    1. A.Investigate the proposed salonCorrect answer: A
    2. B.Renew every employee's individual license
    3. C.Set the applicant's examination score
    4. D.Transfer the salon license to a new owner

    Explanation: Section 477.025(4) states, "Upon receiving the application, the department may cause an investigation to be made of the proposed cosmetology salon or specialty salon." Investigation is therefore the authorized next action.

    Reference: Chapter 477 Section 025 - 2025 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate — Fla. Stat. § 477.025