Practice for California's written cosmetology licensing exam.
California licenses cosmetologists with a single written exam. There has been no hands-on practical exam since 2022, so the written theory test is the whole licensing bar. Oro helps you prepare for it with a free readiness diagnostic, cited practice questions, and full timed mock exams covering the science the exam tests.
Since January 1, 2022, California no longer requires a hands-on practical exam, so the computer-based written theory exam, delivered by PSI, is the entire licensing test.
| Licensing board | California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (DCA) |
|---|---|
| Exam vendor | PSI |
| Written exam | 100 scored multiple-choice questions |
| Time limit | 120 minutes |
| Passing score | 75% |
| Practical exam | Not required (eliminated January 2022) |
| Training hours | 1,000 |
California adopted the PSI national written examination, so the test focuses on the cosmetology science every board tests: infection control and safety, hair cutting and chemical services, skin and scalp, nails, anatomy, and basic chemistry. The Board's page and the PSI candidate information bulletin list the current content outline.
Oro's national question bank covers the core science the California written exam tests, with a cited explanation on every question and full timed mock exams so pacing feels familiar. Because California has no practical exam, the written test is the entire bar, which is exactly what Oro drills.
Oro is a general study aid and does not include California-specific statutes or the latest Board bulletin verbatim, so confirm any state-law details against the Board's own materials linked below.
Requirements change, so always confirm the current details with the licensing authority: California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.
Does California still have a practical exam for cosmetology?
No. As of January 1, 2022, California eliminated the hands-on practical exam. Licensure is now based on the written theory exam alone.
How many questions is the California cosmetology written exam?
The written exam has 100 scored multiple-choice questions (plus a few unscored pretest items), a 120-minute time limit, and a 75% passing score, per the PSI candidate information bulletin.
Does Oro cover California law?
Oro covers the core cosmetology science the written exam tests. It does not include California-specific statutes and regulations; study those from the Board's materials.
Oro is an independent study aid. Not affiliated with or endorsed by any licensing board or exam provider. Practice content is aligned to publicly available exam outlines and standard cosmetology science.