Cosmetology Practice Test 2026

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To pass: 75%
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Source: NIC National Cosmetology Theory Content OutlineLast verified: Unknown · Not yet verified

Written from the official NIC National Cosmetology Theory Content Outline· Reviewed by the PassPrep editorial team· How we verify →

🎯 Practice by Topic

Infection Control & Safety

NIC Area I.A — Infection control principles, decontamination levels, bloodborne pathogens, OSHA/EPA, cross-contamination.

66 questions→

Anatomy & Physiology

NIC Area I.B — Structure & function of hair, skin, and nails + their disorders; muscles, joints, nervous & circulatory systems.

88 questions→

Basic Chemistry

NIC Area I.C — Matter, elements, mixtures & emulsions, surfactants, the pH scale, acids/alkalis, oxidation-reduction, and product chemistry.

54 questions→

Hair Care & Services

NIC Area II.A-C — Client consultation & analysis, tools & implements, draping, shampooing, scalp massage & treatments, conditioning.

60 questions→

Hair Cutting & Styling

NIC Area II.D — Haircutting (elevation, guides, texturizing), wet & thermal styling, braiding & natural hair, wigs & extensions, principles of hair design.

80 questions→

Chemical Services

NIC Area II.E — Hair color (level/tone/law of color/formulation), lightening & toning, permanent waving, and chemical relaxing, with chemical-service safety.

96 questions→

Skin Care & Services

NIC Area III — Skin analysis, facials & exfoliation, hair removal, makeup, and basic electrotherapy & light therapy.

64 questions→

Nail Care & Services

NIC Area IV — Nail consultation & analysis, tools, basic manicure & pedicure, and nail enhancements (tips, wraps, acrylic, gel, dip) with safety.

52 questions→

Salon Business & Professional Practices

Professional ethics & communication, state regulation & licensing, salon business arrangements, retailing, ergonomics, workplace safety, and career.

40 questions→

Jobs and next steps

Can help you move up

Shampooer / Salon Assistant

Shampooer duties overlap licensed cosmetology hair/scalp services; cosmetology is a related licensed next path. Shampooer work is not claimed to satisfy training hours or state eligibility.

Requirements vary by state and locality. Check the authority for where you plan to work.

View Shampooer / Salon Assistant job guide

Why this is linked: Shampooer / Salon Assistant