# The Ultimate Guide to Passing the Tennessee Cosmetology State Board Exam
So, you’ve finished your 1,500 hours of beauty school, and the only thing standing between you and your professional license is the Tennessee cosmetology state board exam. It feels like a mountain to climb, doesn’t it? I remember that mix of excitement and pure nerves when I finally hit my hours. You’ve spent months perfecting your shears and color applications, and now it’s time to prove it to the state.
The Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners partners with PSI Services to administer the exams. To get licensed, you must pass two separate tests: a theory (written) exam and a practical (hands-on) exam. Both require a minimum score of 70% to pass [1]. While it sounds intimidating, breaking down the requirements and knowing exactly what to expect can turn that anxiety into confidence.
Understanding the Tennessee Cosmetology State Board Requirements
Before you can even schedule your test, you must meet the state’s eligibility criteria. In Tennessee, this means completing 1,500 hours of instruction at an approved cosmetology school [2]. You must also be at least 16 years old and have completed at least the 10th grade (or equivalent). Once your school confirms you’ve met these hours, they will submit your eligibility to PSI, and you’ll receive an "Authorization to Test" email.
| Requirement | Detail |
| :--- | :--- |
| Minimum Age | 16 years old |
| Education | 10th Grade or GED |
| Training Hours | 1,500 hours |
| Exam Provider | PSI Services |
| Passing Score | 70% for both Theory and Practical |
| Total Exam Fees | $140 ($70 per exam) |
Once you have your authorization, you can create an account on the [PSI website](https://test-takers.psiexams.com/tncosmetology) and schedule your exams at one of the several testing centers across the state, including Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Johnson City [3].
Mastering the Theory Exam
The theory portion of the Tennessee cosmetology state board is a computer-based, multiple-choice test. You are given 90 minutes to answer 110 questions [4]. This exam covers everything from the science of hair and skin to the specific laws governing cosmetology in Tennessee.
The questions are designed to test your "minimum competency"—basically, the state wants to ensure you can practice safely without harming the public. You’ll find a heavy emphasis on sanitation and safety, which usually makes up a significant portion of the score. If you’re looking for more ways to prepare, check out our [top study tips for beauty students](/blog/study-tips-for-cosmetology-students).
Key Topics on the Theory Exam:
* Sanitation and Safety: Infection control, blood exposure procedures, and tool disinfection.
* Hair Care and Services: Trichology, draping, shampooing, haircutting, and styling.
* Chemical Services: Haircoloring, chemical waving, and relaxing.
* Skin and Nail Care: Basic anatomy, physiology, and service procedures.
* Tennessee State Laws: Licensing requirements, board rules, and professional conduct.
Conquering the Practical Exam
The practical exam is where many students feel the most pressure. This is the hands-on portion where you demonstrate your skills in front of an examiner. In Tennessee, you are required to bring your own mannequin head and a complete kit of supplies [5]. Unlike some states that allow live models, Tennessee is strictly mannequin-based for the cosmetology practical.
The exam is divided into timed sections. You must follow the "Universal Precautions" at all times, meaning you treat every "client" (your mannequin) with the highest level of sanitation. If you drop a tool, don't panic—just follow the proper disinfection protocol immediately. For a deeper dive into what to pack, see our [state board kit checklist](/blog/cosmetology-state-board-kit-checklist).
Standard Practical Exam Sections:
1. Work Area and Client Preparation: Setting up your station and draping.
2. Thermal Curling: Demonstrating safe use of a curling iron.
3. Haircutting: Performing a specific cut as directed.
4. Chemical Waving: Wrapping a section of the hair for a perm.
5. Virgin Hair Lightening and Color Retouch: Applying simulated color products.
6. Virgin Relaxer and Relaxer Retouch: Demonstrating chemical relaxing techniques.
Final Steps to Your License
After you pass both exams, you’re almost there! You will receive your official pass notice from PSI. You then need to pay the initial license fee of $60 to the Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners [6]. Once processed, your official license will be mailed to you, and you can finally start your career in one of Tennessee's many vibrant salons.
The journey to becoming a licensed professional is a marathon, not a sprint. Take the time to study, practice your practical timings, and trust the training you received in school. You’ve got this!
Ready to Practice?
Don't leave your future to chance. Head over to GlowBoard and try our [free Tennessee cosmetology practice exams](/blog/tennessee-cosmetology-practice-test) to sharpen your skills and build the confidence you need to ace the state board on your first try!
References
[1] [Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners - PSI Information](https://www.tn.gov/commerce/regboards/cosmo/license/psi.html)
[2] [Tennessee Cosmetologist License Requirements](https://www.tn.gov/commerce/regboards/cosmo/license/individual/cosmetologist.html)
[3] [PSI Candidate Information Bulletin for Tennessee Cosmetology](https://proctor2.psionline.com/programs/TNCOS/141TNCosmetology.pdf)
[4] [Tennessee Cosmetology Exam Overview - Cosmetology Guru](https://cosmetologyguru.com/blog/tennessee-cosmetology-state-board-exam-and-free-practice-test/)
[5] [Tennessee State Board Practical Exam Requirements](https://beautylicenseguide.com/cosmetology-license/tennessee/)
[6] [Tennessee Board of Cosmetology Fees](https://support.commerce.tn.gov/hc/en-us/articles/223214848-How-to-Apply-Cosmetologist)