Key Takeaways
- 38 states use NIC standardized examinations for cosmetology licensing
- New York and Florida are notable states that use their own exam systems, not NIC
- NIC states generally have easier license reciprocity with each other
- The NIC exam has two parts: written (theory) and practical
- If transferring from a non-NIC state to an NIC state, you'll likely need to take NIC exams
NIC vs State-Specific Exams
Understanding whether your state uses NIC exams or state-specific exams is crucial for exam preparation and future license reciprocity.
States Using NIC Exams (38 States)
The following states are contracted with NIC and use standardized NIC examinations:
| Region | NIC States |
|---|---|
| Northeast | Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont |
| Southeast | North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia |
| Midwest | Illinois (Barber/Esthetics), Iowa, Kansas (Barber), Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin |
| Southwest | Arkansas, Louisiana (select exams), New Mexico, Oklahoma |
| West | Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Utah, Washington, Wyoming |
| Other | District of Columbia, Mississippi |
States with State-Specific Exams
Some states have developed their own examinations or use modified versions:
New York
- Uses its own NYS cosmetology exam (not NIC)
- More focused on New York-specific laws and regulations
- Emphasizes infection control and health certification requirements
- Requires a Health Certification submitted by a healthcare provider
- Does have reciprocity agreements with states having equivalent standards
Florida
- Uses its own Florida cosmetology exam (not NIC)
- Florida-specific laws and regulations emphasized
- Licensure by endorsement available if your state has equivalent requirements (1,200+ hours)
- If transferring to an NIC state, you'll likely need to take NIC exams
Other Non-NIC States
- California - Uses modified examination
- Texas - Uses its own examination system
- Georgia - State-specific requirements
What "NIC" Means for Standardization
When a state uses NIC exams, you can expect:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Consistent Content | Same topics and difficulty across NIC states |
| Easier Reciprocity | Simpler license transfer between NIC states |
| Standardized Skills | Practical exam uses same evaluation criteria |
| Updated Regularly | NIC updates exams to reflect industry standards |
Practical vs Written Exam Components
The NIC exam has two distinct parts:
Written (Theory) Examination
- Computer-based testing at PSI centers
- 110 multiple-choice questions
- 90-minute time limit
- Tests knowledge of theory, safety, and regulations
Practical Examination
- In-person at designated testing sites
- 10 timed service tasks on a mannequin
- Evaluated by trained examiners
- Tests hands-on skills and technique
State Variation Examples
| State | Written | Practical | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | NIC | NIC | Both exams required |
| Ohio | NIC | NIC | Both exams required |
| Louisiana | NIC | NIC | Select exams only |
| Illinois | NIC | NIC | Barber/Esthetics only |
| Alaska | NIC | Not required | Written only |
| New York | State | State | Own exam system |
| Florida | State | State | Own exam system |
License Reciprocity Considerations
If you plan to work in multiple states, consider:
- NIC to NIC states: Generally smoother license transfers
- NIC to Non-NIC states: May need additional state exam
- Non-NIC to NIC states: Will likely need to take NIC exams
- State law exams: Many states require passing their state law portion regardless
Pro Tip: If you're licensed in a non-NIC state (like Florida) and want to transfer to an NIC state (like Kentucky), you'll typically need to take both the NIC written and practical exams plus the state law exam.
How many states use NIC standardized examinations for cosmetology licensing?
Which of the following states does NOT use the NIC cosmetology exam?