California Cosmetology Practice Test
Practice general cosmetology theory, then verify the current California format and state rules with the official board.
Open official board ↗
CAWhat the official source confirms
The April 2026 California outline lists 110 theory questions: 100 scored and 10 unscored, in 120 minutes. The Board changed the cosmetologist passing percentage from 73% to 70% for exams from April 1, 2026. A practical licensing exam is not required.
Official source: California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology ↗
PSI examination outline, effective April 1, 2026 ↗
- Exam provider
- PSI
- Written exam
- Required
- Practical exam
- Not required
- Total written questions
- 110
- Time
- 120 minutes
- Passing score
- 70% (from April 1, 2026)
How to prepare for California
Safety and infection control accounts for 30% of the California outline. Consultation and analysis is 19%. Use these published weights to set priorities, then check the remaining domains. Do not copy a different license’s exam length or passing score.
GlowExam’s free questions cover general written-exam knowledge and are not a substitute for the state’s current laws, candidate bulletin, or practical instructions.
Study for California’s written exam, not an outdated practical
California’s cosmetologist outline effective April 2026 separates 100 scored items from 10 unscored items. All 110 appear within the 120-minute test. Do not assume that every delivered question contributes to your score. The Board’s examination page is also the place to check language options and current instructions.
| Focus | Your next step |
|---|---|
| Question count | Distinguish total questions from scored questions. |
| Study priorities | Start with safety and consultation; follow the California outline for the remaining domains. |
| Before booking | Match the cosmetologist credential and effective date to your appointment. |
Source: California / PSI examination outline, April 2026 ↗ · Reviewed
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How many questions?
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Read the guideWhat is on the exam?
An illustrated topic breakdown and a practical study sequence.
Read the guidePreparing for skin care?
Separate cosmetology skin topics from an esthetics licensing exam.
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