Key Takeaways
- The Theory Exam has 65 multiple-choice questions with a 90-minute time limit
- Safety and Sanitation makes up 34% of the exam (approximately 22 questions)
- Florida laws and regulations (Chapter 477 and 61G5) are heavily tested
- Key study references include Milady Standard: Cosmetology and Salon Fundamentals
- All questions are weighted equally - no question is worth more than another
Last updated: January 2026
FL Theory Exam Content
The Florida Written Theory Examination tests your fundamental knowledge of cosmetology principles, safety procedures, and Florida-specific laws and regulations. Understanding the exam structure and content areas will help you prepare effectively.
Exam Structure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Questions | 65 multiple-choice |
| Time Limit | 90 minutes (1.5 hours) |
| Passing Score | 75% (49 correct answers) |
| Question Weighting | All questions weighted equally |
| Format | Computer-based at Pearson VUE centers |
Content Breakdown
Theory Exam Content Areas
| Subject Area | Percentage | Approx. Questions |
|---|---|---|
| General Safety and Sanitation Procedures | 34% | ~22 questions |
| Hair Services | 25% | ~16 questions |
| Skin and Nail Services | 18% | ~12 questions |
| Anatomy and Physiology | 13% | ~8 questions |
| Florida Laws and Regulations | 10% | ~7 questions |
General Safety and Sanitation (34%)
This is the largest content area - you MUST master it. Topics include:
Sanitation and Sterilization
- Difference between sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization
- EPA-registered disinfectants and their use
- Proper disinfection of implements (metal, non-metal, electrical)
- UV sanitizers and their limitations
- Blood spill procedures
Infection Control
- Types of pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites)
- How infections spread (direct/indirect contact, droplet, airborne)
- Bloodborne pathogens (Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV)
- Universal/Standard Precautions
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Work Area Safety
- Proper work area cleaning and maintenance
- Ventilation requirements
- Chemical storage
- Electrical safety
- Fire prevention
Personal Hygiene
- Hand washing protocols
- Professional appearance standards
- Protecting yourself and clients
OSHA and CDC Guidelines
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations
- Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS/SDS)
- Right to Know laws
Hair Services (25%)
Hair Structure and Analysis
- Hair shaft anatomy (cuticle, cortex, medulla)
- Hair growth cycle (anagen, catagen, telogen)
- Hair texture and porosity
- Scalp conditions and disorders
Hair Cutting
- Sectioning techniques
- Cutting angles and elevations
- Safety considerations
- Tool maintenance
Hair Styling
- Wet styling techniques
- Thermal styling safety
- Styling product knowledge
- Finishing techniques
Chemical Services (Overview - detailed in Clinical)
- Basic chemistry of chemical services
- Safety considerations
- Client consultation for chemical services
Skin and Nail Services (18%)
Skin Structure
- Layers of the skin (epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous)
- Skin functions
- Skin types
- Common skin conditions and disorders
Facial Services
- Facial massage movements
- Product application
- Contraindications for facial services
- Sanitation for facial equipment
Nail Structure
- Nail anatomy
- Nail growth
- Nail disorders and diseases
- When to refer clients
Manicure and Pedicure Services
- Service procedures
- Sanitation requirements
- Tool disinfection
- Product safety
Anatomy and Physiology (13%)
Body Systems
- Skeletal system (bones of head, face, neck, arms, hands)
- Muscular system (muscles of head, face, neck, arms, hands)
- Circulatory system (blood supply to head and extremities)
- Nervous system (nerves relevant to cosmetology services)
Skin Anatomy
- Detailed skin structure
- Functions of the skin
- Appendages of the skin
Chemistry Basics
- pH scale
- Acids and alkalis
- Matter and its forms
- Basic chemical reactions
Florida Laws and Regulations (10%)
Chapter 477 - Florida Cosmetology Act
- Definitions (cosmetology, cosmetologist, salon)
- Licensing requirements
- Exemptions from licensure
- Prohibited practices
- Grounds for discipline
Chapter 61G5 - Administrative Code
- Salon requirements
- Sanitation standards
- Application procedures
- Continuing education requirements
- Display requirements
Other Florida-Specific Topics
- DBPR role and authority
- Board of Cosmetology functions
- HIV/AIDS education requirements
- License renewal procedures
- Disciplinary actions and penalties
Official Study References
The Florida Board of Cosmetology recommends the following references for exam preparation:
| Reference | Edition |
|---|---|
| Chapter 477, Florida Statutes | Current |
| Chapter 61G5, Florida Administrative Code | Current |
| Milady Standard: Cosmetology | 2012 or later |
| Salon Fundamentals: A Resource for Your Cosmetology Career | 2010 or later |
| CDC Guidelines for Infection Control | Current |
| OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard | Current |
Exam Day Tips
Before the Exam
- Bring valid government-issued photo ID
- Arrive 30 minutes early
- No study materials allowed in testing room
- Electronic devices must be stored in lockers
During the Exam
- 15-minute tutorial before exam starts
- Read each question carefully
- Watch for words like "NOT," "EXCEPT," "ALWAYS," "NEVER"
- Flag difficult questions and return to them
- Use all available time - don't rush
After the Exam
- Receive unofficial pass/fail immediately
- Official results mailed within 2-3 weeks
- If you fail, review your score report for weak areas
Key Takeaways
- Safety and Sanitation is the largest content area at 34%
- Study Florida-specific laws (Chapter 477 and 61G5)
- Understand the differences between sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization
- Know OSHA and CDC guidelines
- All questions are worth the same - don't spend too long on difficult ones
- Use official study references recommended by the Board
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Test Your Knowledge
What percentage of the Florida Theory Exam covers General Safety and Sanitation Procedures?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following is the difference between sanitation and sterilization?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
According to the hair growth cycle, which phase involves active hair growth?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
The three layers of the skin, from outermost to innermost, are:
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Universal Precautions, as recommended by the CDC, assume that:
A
B
C
D