NC Cosmetology
North Carolina Cosmetology Licensing Examination
More study resources
Cheat sheet
Keep the key ideas within reach.
ExploreKey terms
Get comfortable with the vocabulary.
ExploreStudy plan
Give each week a clear focus.
ExploreCommon mistakes
Understand the traps and how to avoid them.
ExploreCase studies
Put your knowledge to work in context.
ExploreExam-day guide
Prepare for the day ahead.
ExploreAbout this exam
North Carolina cosmetology licensure is administered by the NC Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners, which publishes exam, initial licensing, laws, rules, sanitation, and scope-of-practice information on its website. This independent study page helps candidates organize preparation; it is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Board. The credential is for people who intend to practice cosmetic art services in a licensed North Carolina shop, and the Board's site separates pathways for North Carolina students, applicants licensed in another state or country, teacher license applicants, out-of-state graduates, applicants with a record of a felony, and Natural Hair Care specialists. For exam preparation, start with the Board's Laws, Rules and Regulations and Sanitation Regulations, then read the Board's declaratory rulings and guidance on lash extension application, lash lifting/perming, brow lamination, esthetics scope of practice, and hair tinsel ("fairy hair"). These documents define what is and is not within scope, and they change, so check the Board site for updates. Proposed Senate Bill 808 may change licensure requirements, but no changes were finalized as of the Board's 5/5/2026 update. After licensure, non-exempt licensees complete 8 hours of CE per year, at least half in the cosmetic art licensure field.
What you'll study
About NC Cosmetology preparation
What topics should I study for the NC cosmetology exam?
Use the Board's own publications as your backbone: Board Laws, Rules and Regulations; Sanitation Regulations; and the Board's declaratory rulings and guidance on lash extension application, lash lifting/perming, brow lamination, esthetics scope of practice, and hair tinsel. These define scope and safety expectations, and they are updated on the Board site, so verify you are reading current material.
How many continuing education hours are required?
Licensees who are not exempt or inactive must complete 8 hours of CE per year, and at least half of the education must be in the cosmetic art licensure field. The Board offers free CE and does not require licensees to take paid courses.
Do I have to buy CE courses from a private provider?
No. The Board offers free CE for licensees and cautions licensees against CE course providers that advertise their classes as "mandatory." Acceptable education can include learning a new skill from another professional, watching educational videos or tutorials, taking correspondence or online courses, or participating in a hands-on class.
How should I keep CE records?
Keep records of the time, date, location (or URL), and a brief description of the educational material. If you are selected for an audit and receive an audit letter, you will need to submit those records in a timely manner. Licensees can document CE hours as any education earned since the last renewal.
When does a shop license expire, and what are the late fees?
Shop licenses expire annually on February 1. Renewals are on time from December 1 through February 1. From February 2, a $10 late fee applies. After March 1, the fee is a $10 late fee plus $25 reinstatement.
Can I pay the Board over the phone?
No. Staff cannot take payments over the phone. All applications and renewals can be completed online, and staff are glad to help answer questions online or via phone. The Board office phone number is 919-736-6123.
What are the Board office hours?
The Board office is open Monday through Thursday, except state holidays, from 9:00am to 4:00pm. Phone lines are open Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 4:00pm. Questions can also be sent to [email protected] or submitted via the Chat now option.
Who can perform lash extensions in North Carolina?
To perform lash extension application services, an individual must hold either an esthetician license or a cosmetology license and be practicing in a licensed cosmetic art shop. GS 88B establishes this requirement in the definitions of esthetics and cosmetology.
What if someone impersonates a Board inspector and asks for payment?
Board inspectors always carry and present identification but do not collect payments or offer insurance of any kind. The Board does not text requests for payment of civil penalties. Report suspicious texts, calls, or personal visits to the Board office.
Can an unlicensed person blow dry hair?
Session Law 2024-45 (SB607) creates an exemption for unlicensed individuals to perform blowdrying services. This is a specific exemption; check the Board's notices and rules for how it applies before offering other services.