6.6 California Requirements
Key Takeaways
- California cosmetology candidates should confirm training hours, age, education, exam, fee, renewal, and continuing education rules before applying.
- California requirements are a state-specific supplement to the broader NIC theory, sanitation, hair, skin, and nail service content.
- Application approval, exam scheduling, and license issuance are separate steps, so candidates should keep board documentation organized.
- Reciprocity or endorsement rules can differ from first-time licensing and may require proof of education, exams, or license history.
- Fees, forms, and board procedures can change, so candidates should verify current instructions with the California licensing board before scheduling.
Last updated: April 2026
California Cosmetology License Requirements
California significantly reduced its training requirements in 2022, dropping from 1,600 to 1,000 hours and eliminating the practical exam.
At a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Training Hours | 1,000 school hours (reduced from 1,600 in 2022) |
| Minimum Age | 17 years old |
| Education | 10th grade or equivalent |
| Exam Type | State-specific written only |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Exam Fee | $125 (includes license) |
| License Fee | Included in exam fee |
| Renewal | Every 2 years (birth month) |
| CE Required | No |
Major 2022 Changes
Senate Bill 803 made significant changes:
- Reduced hours from 1,600 to 1,000
- Eliminated practical exam - written exam only
- Created 600-hour option for non-chemical hairstyling only
Examination Details
| Exam Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Questions | 100 scored + 10 pretest |
| Time Limit | 120 minutes |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Languages | English, Korean, Spanish, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese |
Apprenticeship Option
California offers full-time apprenticeships requiring 3,000 hours of supervised training plus classroom instruction.
State Board Contact
California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
- Website: barbercosmo.ca.gov
- Phone: (800) 952-5210