Georgia Cosmetology Licensing Requirements
The Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers oversees cosmetology licensing in Georgia. To obtain a Georgia cosmetology license, you must complete 1,500 hours of training at a Georgia-licensed cosmetology school, pass both the written and practical portions of the Georgia cosmetology exam, and submit a license application with the required fees.
Georgia also offers a cosmetology instructor license for those who want to teach at cosmetology schools, which requires additional training hours and a separate examination.
Georgia State Board Exam Format
The Georgia cosmetology written exam is administered by PSI Services and contains 100 multiple-choice questions. You have 90 minutes to complete the exam. The passing score is 70% (70 correct answers out of 100).
The practical exam is administered at PSI testing centers in Georgia and evaluates your ability to perform specific cosmetology services. You must pass both portions within one year of each other.
Key Topics on the Georgia Cosmetology Exam
Trichology — the science of hair and scalp — is one of the most heavily tested areas. Know the structure of the hair shaft, the hair growth cycle, and the major hair and scalp disorders.
Chemical services — permanent waves, relaxers, and hair color — require a thorough understanding of chemistry. Georgia exams frequently test the pH of various chemical services and the proper safety procedures.
Skin care — basic facial services, skin anatomy, and common skin conditions are covered on the Georgia exam.
Nail care — basic manicure and pedicure procedures, nail anatomy, and nail disorders are tested.
Sanitation and safety — Georgia has specific sanitation requirements for cosmetology establishments. Know the Georgia Board's rules for disinfecting implements and maintaining a clean work area.
Georgia state laws — the Georgia Cosmetology Act and the rules of the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers govern licensing in Georgia. Know the license renewal requirements and the rules for operating a cosmetology salon.
Study Strategy for Georgia Students
Georgia's cosmetology exam follows the standard NIC (National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology) format, which means the content is similar to exams in other states. Focus on the core technical topics — trichology, chemistry, and sanitation — and then spend the final week before your exam studying Georgia-specific laws and regulations.
The Georgia practical exam is strictly scored. Practice each required skill at least 20 times before your exam date, and have your instructor evaluate your technique against the official criteria sheet.