Key Takeaways
- Bring valid government-issued ID and your exam confirmation or authorization to test (ATT).
- Arrive 30 minutes early to allow time for check-in and setup.
- Leave prohibited items (phones, smart watches, notes) in your car or at home.
- Follow all testing center rules to avoid disqualification.
- Exam results are typically available immediately for computerized tests or within 2-4 weeks for practical exams.
Last updated: January 2026
Exam Day Checklist
Proper preparation for exam day is just as important as studying the material. Being organized and knowing what to expect eliminates unnecessary stress and helps you perform your best.
What to Bring
Required Documents
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Government-issued photo ID | Must be current, not expired |
| Secondary ID (if required) | Check your state's requirements |
| Authorization to Test (ATT) | Confirmation email or letter |
| Cosmetology school completion certificate | If required by your state |
For Written Exam Only
- Government-issued ID
- ATT/confirmation
- #2 pencils (usually provided, but bring backup)
- Calculator (only if allowed - check requirements)
For Practical Exam
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Documents | ID, ATT, any required certificates |
| Mannequin | Properly prepared, state-approved |
| Mannequin holder | Secure and stable |
| All supplies | Per your state's approved list |
| Rolling case | Keeps supplies organized |
| Professional attire | Per dress code requirements |
Personal Items (Allowed)
- Bottled water (clear, label removed)
- Light snack (for breaks only)
- Sweater or jacket (testing rooms can be cold)
- Tissues
- Necessary medications
What NOT to Bring
Items that will cause problems or disqualification:
Strictly Prohibited
| Item | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Cell phones | Must be turned off and stored; may cause disqualification if found |
| Smart watches | Not allowed in testing area |
| Notes or study materials | Will be confiscated; may cause disqualification |
| Bags or purses | Must be stored in locker |
| Electronic devices | Tablets, laptops, cameras |
| Unapproved calculators | Only specific models allowed (if any) |
For Practical Exam
| Prohibited Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Unapproved products | Must use only approved brands/types |
| Pre-mixed chemicals | Must mix fresh during exam |
| Timer/stopwatch | Testing center provides |
| Pre-styled mannequin | Hair must be in natural state |
| Extra people | No friends, family, or coaches |
Important Rule
When in doubt, leave it out. It's better to not have something than to risk disqualification for bringing a prohibited item.
Arrival Time
Written Exam
| Action | Timing |
|---|---|
| Leave home | Allow extra time for traffic/parking |
| Arrive at testing center | 30 minutes before scheduled time |
| Check-in process | 15-20 minutes |
| Seated and ready | 5-10 minutes before exam start |
Practical Exam
| Action | Timing |
|---|---|
| Leave home | Allow significant extra time |
| Arrive at testing center | 45-60 minutes before scheduled time |
| Unload supplies | 10-15 minutes |
| Check-in and setup | 20-30 minutes |
| Ready for examination | At scheduled start time |
Consequences of Late Arrival
- May not be admitted
- May forfeit exam fee
- Must reschedule (and pay again)
- Delays career timeline
Testing Center Rules
Testing centers have strict rules to ensure exam integrity:
General Rules
| Rule | Explanation |
|---|---|
| No talking | No communication with other candidates |
| Raise hand for assistance | Only way to communicate with staff |
| No leaving early | May not leave until dismissed |
| No exam discussion | Cannot discuss questions afterward |
| Follow all instructions | Exactly as given by examiner |
During Written Exam
- Remain seated unless given permission to leave
- Keep eyes on your own screen/paper
- No food or drink at testing station
- Breaks allowed only at designated times
- Report any technical issues immediately
During Practical Exam
- Work only on your own mannequin/model
- No communicating with other candidates
- Follow examiner instructions exactly
- Stop immediately when time is called
- Clean your station completely
What to Expect Step-by-Step
Written Exam Process
- Arrive early - 30 minutes before scheduled time
- Check in - Present ID and ATT, sign in
- Store belongings - Lock personal items in provided locker
- Photo/fingerprint - Security measures vary by site
- Receive instructions - Tutorial on testing software
- Begin exam - Timer starts, complete all questions
- Submit exam - Review answers, confirm submission
- Receive results - Immediate for computerized exams
- Exit - Retrieve belongings, leave quietly
Practical Exam Process
- Arrive early - 45-60 minutes before
- Unload supplies - From vehicle to testing area
- Check in - Present ID, ATT, show supplies
- Setup station - Organize supplies, position mannequin
- Orientation - Examiner explains process and rules
- Begin services - Perform required procedures in order
- Time calls - Warnings at intervals (varies by state)
- Complete services - Finish all required procedures
- Cleanup - Properly sanitize and pack supplies
- Exit - Results mailed within 2-4 weeks
After the Exam
If You Pass
| Action | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Receive official results | Immediately (written) or 2-4 weeks (practical) |
| Apply for license | As soon as you receive passing score |
| Pay licensing fee | Required before license issued |
| Receive license | 2-4 weeks after application |
| Begin working | Only after receiving actual license |
If You Need to Retake
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Review results | Identify weak areas |
| Waiting period | Usually 30-90 days (varies by state) |
| Additional study | Focus on areas where you struggled |
| Reapply | New ATT, new exam fee |
| Retake exam | May be able to retake failed portion only |
Retake Policies
- Number of attempts: Usually unlimited (check your state)
- Cost: Full or partial exam fee each attempt
- Study requirements: Some states require additional training after multiple failures
- Partial retakes: Some states allow retaking only the failed portion
Results Timeline
| Exam Type | Results Available |
|---|---|
| Written (computerized) | Immediately upon completion |
| Written (paper) | 2-4 weeks by mail |
| Practical | 2-4 weeks by mail or online |
Loading diagram...
Test Your Knowledge
How early should you arrive for the practical exam?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
What happens if you bring your cell phone into the testing area?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
When will you receive your results for the computerized written exam?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
What should you do if you fail a portion of the exam?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Which document is typically required to be admitted to your exam?
A
B
C
D