Examination
Examination FeesExaminations fees are paid directly to the testing administrator upon registration for examination. Information on registration and payment is sent in exam eligibility notification.
Hair Braiders and Barber Assistants do not have to pay examination fees
Re-Examination RequirementsApplicants who need to repeat any portion of the exams must submit an additional application for processing. Click Here after the application is processed, a new eligibility letter with exam instructions will be sent via email.
Hair Braiders and Barber Assistants only have to wait 24 hours before they can re-take the exam.
Registered Barbers, Master Hair Care Specialists and Barber Instructors
Applicants must pass both the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) theory and practical exams. The passing score is 70%. Proof of passage of both portions is required. If proof of passage cannot be obtained, applicants will be required to reexamine.
For NIC Practice Exams: Click Here
For Registered Barber Study Materials: Click Here
For Master Hair Care Specialist Study Materials: Click Here
For Barber Instructor Study Materials: Click Here
Hair Braiders and Barber Assistants
Applicants must pass the SC online Safety and Sanitation examination.
For Study Materials: Study materials will be sent upon approval of application.
Registered Barber applicants must pass both the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) theory and practical exam. Proof of passage of both portions is required. If proof of passage cannot be obtained, applicants will be required to reexamine.
To be exam eligible you must submit an application to the Board and have completed either:
- 1920 hours of on-the-job training under a licensed barber instructor in a licensed barbershop, or
- 1500 hours in an approved barber college/school.
Master Hair Care Specialist applicants must pass both the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) theory and practical exam. Proof of passage of both portions is required. If proof of passage cannot be obtained, applicants will be required to reexamine.
To be exam eligible you must submit an application to the Board and have completed either:
- 1920 hours of on-the-job training under a licensed barber instructor in a licensed barbershop, or
- 1500 hours in an approved barber college/school.
Barber Instructor applicants must pass both the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) theory and practical exam. Proof of passage of both portions is required. If proof of passage cannot be obtained, applicants will be required to reexamine.
To be exam eligible you must submit an application to the Board and possess 3 years of experience as a Registered Barber or Master Haircare Specialist.
Hair Braider applicants must pass the South Carolina online safety and sanitation exam.
To be exam eligible you must submit an application to the Board. Once processed applicants will be sent instructions to access the 6-hour training course. Upon completion of the course, exam eligibility will be sent.
Barber Assistant applicants must pass the South Carolina online safety and sanitation exam.
To be exam eligible you must submit an application and have completed 240 hours of training in shampooing and manicures. Once a complete application is received and processed, applicants will be sent instructions on accessing the online examination.