Examination
Individuals interested in becoming a Cosmetologist or cosmetology-related professional by examination are required to take and pass a two-part examination for licensure in South Carolina (theory and practical).
The examination is administered by PSI, and they can be reached at (855) 746-8173 or you may visit www.psiexams.com for more information and a candidate information bulletin.
Applicants must obtain a passing score of 75% on the NIC Examination (theory and practical) for Cosmetology, Nail Technology and Esthetics. A score of 80% is needed for instructor licensure.
More information can be found on the testing service provider’s website at www.psiexams.com.
Cosmetologist
- Be at least 16 years old;
- Possess at least a 10th-grade education or equivalency by tests used in the public schools or tests approved by the Board;
- Successfully complete 1,500 hours in a cosmetology school approved by the Board or be licensed as a master hair care specialist for a period of five years;
- Pass the NIC written and practical exams;
- Submit an application; and
- Pay the prescribed fee.
Nail Technician
- Be at least 16 years old;
- Possess at least a 10th-grade education or equivalency by tests used in the public schools or tests approved by the Board;
- Successfully complete 300 hours of class work in a nail technician school approved by the Board or comparable training approved by the Board;
- Pass the NIC written and practical exams;
- Submit an application; and
- Pay the prescribed fee.
Esthetician
- Be at least 16 years old;
- Possess at least a 10th-grade education or equivalency by tests used in the public schools or tests approved by the Board;
- Successfully complete 450 hours in classes in skin care at a school approved by the Board or comparable training approved by the Board;
- Pass the NIC written and practical exams;
- Submit an application; and
- Pay the prescribed fee.
- Examination fees: All candidates pay examination fees directly to PSI (PSI sets the fee schedule for examinations).
- Repeat Examination Request Application: $45
The study materials can be found within the PSI candidate information bulletin at www.psiexams.com.
Cosmetology Regulation 35-5(F): Examinations; Reexaminations. An applicant desiring to be reexamined shall apply to the board on a form prescribed by the board and pay the prescribed reexamination fee.
NOTE: Applications are only valid for each testing attempt. If an applicant fails one or both portions of an examination, they must complete a new application and pay the application fee as stated by the Board.
Cosmetology Regulation 35-5(F)(7): Upon completion of the required number of hours the state board exam must be taken within twenty-four months or the said hours become invalid.
NOTE: As of January 8, 2024, a student who has attempted to test theory and/or practical portion of the examination within the 24-month period timeframe of the completion of required hours, may continue to test past the 24-month period.
If a student has NOT attempted to the examination of the theory or practical portions and is outside the 24-month period, will NOT be allowed to test and the hours obtained will become invalid.
Only active, exam eligible applicants who have failed an exam my submit a Request for Reexamination. To check your status, https://eservice.llr.sc.gov/SSO/ApplicationStatus/Index. Applicants whose initial application is expired or Lapsed status licensees must complete the initial application.
Repeat Examination Request Submission
Repeat Examination Requests may only be submitted via Document Submission in the Licensee Portal.
For instructions on how to access and submit applications in Document Submission, click here.
Applications processed in the order they are received. Upon completion of processing, notice will be sent via email.