Ohio Cosmetology Licensing Requirements
The Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board oversees cosmetology licensing in Ohio. To obtain an Ohio cosmetology license, you must complete 1,500 hours of training at an Ohio-licensed cosmetology school, pass both the written and practical portions of the Ohio cosmetology exam, and submit a license application with the required fees.
Ohio also offers a cosmetology instructor license, a nail technology license (200 hours), and an esthetics license (600 hours).
Ohio State Board Exam Format
The Ohio 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 75% (75 correct answers out of 100).
The practical exam is administered at PSI testing centers in Ohio and evaluates your ability to perform specific cosmetology services. You must pass both portions within one year of each other.
Key Topics on the Ohio Cosmetology Exam
Trichology — hair structure, growth cycles, and disorders — is heavily tested on the Ohio exam. Know the three layers of the hair shaft, the three phases of the hair growth cycle, and the major hair and scalp disorders.
Chemical services — permanent waves, relaxers, and hair color — require thorough knowledge of chemistry. Ohio exams frequently test the pH of various chemical services.
Skin and nail care — basic facial services, skin anatomy, nail anatomy, and common disorders are covered.
Sanitation and safety — Ohio has specific sanitation requirements. Know the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board's rules for disinfecting implements and maintaining a clean work area.
Ohio state laws — the Ohio Revised Code and the rules of the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board govern licensing in Ohio. Know the license renewal requirements (every two years) and the continuing education requirements (8 hours per renewal period).
Study Strategy for Ohio Students
Ohio's cosmetology exam follows the NIC format. Focus on trichology, chemical services, and sanitation, then spend the final week studying Ohio-specific laws. Take at least three full practice exams under timed conditions before your exam date.