398+ Free NC Cosmetology Practice Questions

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What is the difference between pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria?

Pathogenic bacteria are harmless; non-pathogenic cause disease

Pathogenic bacteria cause disease; non-pathogenic are harmless

There is no difference between them

Non-pathogenic bacteria only exist in soil

to track

2026 Statistics

Key Facts: NC Cosmetology Exam

110

Exam Questions

100 scored + 10 pretest

75%

Passing Score

NC Board

90 min

Exam Duration

Prov

$49

Exam Fee

NC Board

1,500 hrs

Training Required

1,200 for apprentice

8 hrs/yr

CE Requirement

NC Board

The North Carolina Cosmetology exam has 110 questions (100 scored + 10 pretest) in 90 minutes with a 75% passing score. Four domains: Hair Care (45%), Scientific Concepts (35%), Skin Care (10%), Nail Care (10%). NC requires 1,500 school hours (1,200 for apprentice). Minimum age 16. Annual 8-hour continuing education requirement. Exam fee is only $49.

Sample NC Cosmetology Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your NC Cosmetology exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 398+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1What is the difference between pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria?

A.Pathogenic bacteria are harmless; non-pathogenic cause disease

B.Pathogenic bacteria cause disease; non-pathogenic are harmless

C.There is no difference between them

D.Non-pathogenic bacteria only exist in soil

Explanation: Pathogenic bacteria are disease-producing organisms that can cause infections, illness, or disease in humans. Non-pathogenic bacteria are harmless and do not cause disease. Many non-pathogenic bacteria are actually beneficial, such as saprophytes that break down dead organic matter. Cosmetologists must understand this distinction to properly protect clients from harmful pathogens.

2What shape are cocci bacteria?

A.Rod-shaped

B.Spiral-shaped

C.Round or spherical

D.Square-shaped

Explanation: Cocci are round or spherical-shaped bacteria that can appear singly, in pairs (diplococci), in clusters (staphylococci), or in chains (streptococci). Staphylococci and streptococci are common cocci that can cause skin infections. Bacilli are rod-shaped, and spirilla are spiral-shaped bacteria.

3Which bacteria are rod-shaped and can cause diseases such as tetanus and tuberculosis?

A.Cocci

B.Bacilli

C.Spirilla

D.Fungi

Explanation: Bacilli are rod-shaped bacteria that can cause serious diseases including tetanus, tuberculosis, and diphtheria. They are one of the three main bacterial shapes studied in cosmetology, along with cocci (round) and spirilla (spiral). Understanding bacterial morphology helps cosmetologists recognize potential sources of infection.

4What is the process of destroying all microorganisms including bacterial spores called?

A.Sanitation

B.Disinfection

C.Sterilization

D.Cleaning

Explanation: Sterilization is the highest level of infection control that destroys all microorganisms including bacterial spores. It is typically achieved through autoclaving (steam under pressure), dry heat, or chemical sterilants. While sterilization is required for surgical instruments, disinfection is the standard for most cosmetology tools and implements.

5What type of disinfectant must be used on tools and implements in North Carolina cosmetology salons?

A.Household bleach

B.EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant effective against bacteria, fungi, and viruses

C.Plain soap and water

D.Essential oil solutions

Explanation: North Carolina cosmetology regulations require the use of EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectants that are effective against bacteria, fungi, and viruses (specifically HIV and HBV). These disinfectants must be used according to manufacturer instructions, including proper dilution and contact time. Household cleaners are not adequate for professional salon use.

6What is the first step in the infection control process before disinfecting tools?

A.Immerse in disinfectant

B.Clean with soap and water to remove visible debris

C.Sterilize with heat

D.Wipe with alcohol

Explanation: Cleaning is always the first step before disinfection. Tools must be washed with soap and water to remove all visible dirt, debris, and organic matter. Disinfectants cannot work properly on dirty surfaces because organic matter can deactivate them. After cleaning, rinsing, and drying, tools can then be properly disinfected.

7According to OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, which of the following is considered a bloodborne pathogen of primary concern in cosmetology?

A.Common cold virus

B.Hepatitis B virus (HBV)

C.Streptococcus bacteria

D.Athlete's foot fungus

Explanation: OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard identifies Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) as the primary bloodborne pathogens of concern in workplace settings. Cosmetologists must follow universal precautions, treating all blood and certain bodily fluids as potentially infectious, to protect against these serious diseases.

8What is the correct order of effectiveness from lowest to highest for sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization?

A.Sanitation, disinfection, sterilization

B.Disinfection, sanitation, sterilization

C.Sterilization, disinfection, sanitation

D.Sanitation, sterilization, disinfection

Explanation: Sanitation removes visible dirt and debris and reduces bacteria to safe levels but does not kill all pathogens. Disinfection destroys most disease-causing organisms on non-porous surfaces using EPA-registered disinfectants. Sterilization is the highest level, destroying all microorganisms including bacterial spores, typically using autoclaves. In cosmetology, disinfection is the standard for most tools.

9What is the appropriate action when a client has visible signs of ringworm on their scalp?

A.Proceed with the service carefully

B.Apply extra disinfectant and continue

C.Refuse service and refer to a healthcare provider

D.Only perform chemical services

Explanation: Ringworm (tinea capitis) is a contagious fungal infection that is a contraindication for cosmetology services. Providing services on an infected client could spread the fungus to others and worsen the condition. The cosmetologist should politely decline service, explain that the condition requires medical treatment, and refer the client to a healthcare provider.

10What personal protective equipment (PPE) should be worn when there is a risk of exposure to blood or bodily fluids?

A.Only an apron

B.Gloves, and possibly eye protection and gowns depending on the situation

C.No PPE is needed

D.Only a face mask

Explanation: OSHA requires appropriate PPE based on the potential for exposure. At minimum, gloves must be worn when there is potential contact with blood, bodily fluids, or contaminated items. Additional protection such as eye protection, face shields, or gowns may be necessary depending on the likelihood of splashing or spraying. PPE protects both the worker and client.

About the NC Cosmetology Exam

The North Carolina Cosmetology exam tests knowledge across four domains: Scientific Concepts (35%), Hair Care and Services (45%), Skin Care and Services (10%), and Nail Care and Services (10%). NC requires 1,500 school hours (or 1,200 for apprentice cosmetologists) and passing both theory and practical exams with 75% or higher.

Questions

110 scored questions

Time Limit

90 minutes

Passing Score

75%

Exam Fee

$49 (Prov Exam Administration / NC Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners)

NC Cosmetology Exam Content Outline

35%

Scientific Concepts

Infection control and safety practices, human anatomy and physiology, basic chemistry used in cosmetology

45%

Hair Care and Services

Client consultation, hair analysis, shampooing, haircutting, hairstyling, hair coloring, chemical texture services

10%

Skin Care and Services

Skin analysis, facials, hair removal, makeup application

10%

Nail Care and Services

Manicures, pedicures, nail enhancements

How to Pass the NC Cosmetology Exam

What You Need to Know

Passing score: 75%
Exam length: 110 questions
Time limit: 90 minutes
Exam fee: $49

Keys to Passing

Complete 500+ practice questions
Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
Focus on highest-weighted sections
Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

NC Cosmetology Study Tips from Top Performers

1Focus on Hair Care and Services (45%) — cutting, styling, coloring, and chemical texture services

2Master Scientific Concepts (35%) — infection control, anatomy, physiology, and chemistry

3Practice time management — 110 questions in 90 minutes means about 49 seconds per question

4Know the 75% passing score — higher than most states, requiring solid preparation

5Study NC Board regulations — annual CE requirements and scope of practice rules

6Review skin and nail care (20% combined) — common disorders, contraindications, and procedures

Frequently Asked Questions

How many questions are on the North Carolina Cosmetology exam?

The NC Cosmetology written exam has 110 multiple-choice questions (100 scored + 10 pretest) in 90 minutes. You need 75% to pass. NC also requires a separate practical exam. Both must be passed for licensure.

What are the NC cosmetology training requirements?

North Carolina requires 1,500 hours at a Board-approved cosmetology school (or 1,200 hours for apprentice cosmetologists). You must be at least 16 years old. Applications should be submitted within 3 months of graduation.

What is the NC Cosmetology exam pass rate?

The North Carolina Cosmetology exam has an estimated first-time pass rate of 60-70%. The 75% passing score is higher than some states. Focus on Hair Care (45%) and Scientific Concepts (35%) for the best chance of passing.

What continuing education does NC require?

North Carolina requires 8 hours of continuing education annually for cosmetology license renewal. Topics must include infection control, new techniques, and NC Board regulations.

How should I prepare for the NC Cosmetology exam?

Plan for 40-60 hours of study. Focus on Hair Care and Services (45%) and Scientific Concepts (35%). Practice time management — 110 questions in 90 minutes. Complete 200+ practice questions and aim for 80%+ before scheduling.