Department of Consumer Affairs, Board of Barbering and Cosmetology

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Examination Applications

The written test vendor is Psychological Services (PSI). They can be reached at 1.877.392.6422 or via their website psiexams.com.

All Barbers, Cosmetologists, Estheticians, Electrologists and Manicurists who wish to become licensed in California must submit a completed initial examination application with the appropriate fee and any additional documentation.

Examination and Initial License Fee Application

All Barbers, Cosmetologists, Estheticians, Electrologists and Manicurists who have failed an examination, must submit a completed re-examination application with the appropriate fee.

Re-Examination Application

The Apprenticeship Program is a training program that allows a trainee, called an apprentice, to earn a wage while studying to become a cosmetologist or a barber under the guidance and supervision of a California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology licensee in a salon licensed by the Board. A contract, called an indenture agreement, is drawn up between the salon owner and the student apprentice.

This is a full time two year program. The apprentice must be employed full-time(at least 32 hours a week) and receive supplemental instructions in a classroom.At the completion of 3200 salon hours and 220 hours in a classroom, the apprentice must apply for a professional license, pay the appropriate fee, and pass the license examination.

Establishment Application

Application Status

It takes approximately 8 weeks to process an examination application. If it has been more than 8 weeks, please contact the Board at (916) 574-7570.