Testing applicants must pass a practical, theory, and state law exam. Please review the Testing Information page on this website for more detailed information. The theory and law exams are available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Korean, and Simplified Chinese.

Practical Exam

This test is taken in a licensed school within the last 100 hours of the enrolled program. The practical test for Nevada graduates is not performed at the Board office, it is performed at the school. In-school practical test scheduling is at the discretion of the school, not the individual student.

The practical test can be offered in independent sections (nails, hair, skin sections separately) or all together.

If one section is failed, only the failed section will need to be retaken.

Practical test retakes will need to be completed within thirty (30) days or the full exam must be retaken.

​Practical Exam Preparation (PEP) Guides Reviews service sections, time allotted for each section, products required, and tools required.

Theory Exam Length & Time

• Cosmetology: 110 questions – 2 hours
• Hair Design: 95 questions – 2 hours
• Esthetics: 85 questions – 2 hours
• Nail Technology: 70 questions – 1 hour 30 minutes
• Instructor: 55 Questions – 1 hour 30 minutes

Nevada State Law Exam Length & Time

• Nevada Law Exam: 25 questions - 30 minutes


Click on the Student Resources button to view Practical, Theory, and State Law Testing Information.