Hooray! You’ve finished all of your required hours in school and are finally ready to take your state board exams. You’re so close to pursuing your amazing career in the beauty field, and we couldn’t be more excited for you. Before you take off sprinting, learn exactly what the cosmetology state board kit that you need to carry for the exam.
Supplies with an (*) next to them mean they aren’t required by all states, so it is best you check with your state to see if it is required.
Required Supplies
The supplies required for the state board of cosmetology exam vary slightly depending on the state and the specific license types. While some items are considered mandatory for the practical exam, others may be optional.
Please note, your boards of cosmetology will outline exact requirements in the candidate information bulletin, so test takers need to review it carefully before the practical examination.
To help you prepare effectively for the practical exam, here’s a breakdown of the essential and recommended high-quality supplies you may need during each service area of the state board exam.
Thermal Curling Supplies
- Thermal curling iron
- Comb(s)
- Material for testing the temperature of iron
Hair Cutting Supplies
- Hair Cutting shears
- Razor
- Comb(s)
Chemical Waving Supplies
- Chemical wave rods
- End papers
- Applicator bottle with simulated waving lotion (water)
- Comb(s)
Hair Lightening/Coloring Supplies
- Tint brush and bowl or bottle applicator
- Thick gel or colored cholesterol*
- Comb(s)
- Hair clips
Chemical Relaxing Supplies
- Tint brush and bowl or bottle applicator
- Thick gel or colored cholesterol*
- Comb(s) *
Blow Dry Styling Supplies
- Blow dryer
- Hair brush(es)
Shaping & Pin Curl Shaping Supplies
- Clippies
- Gel
- Comb(s) *
Roller Placement Supplies
- Clippies
- Rollers
- Comb(s)
Basic Facial Supplies
- Hair drape
- Cleansing cream
- Massage cream
- Toner or astringent
Manicure Supplies
- Mannequin hand(s) with artificial nails attached* (Trainer hands are NOT permitted.)
- Bowl and container of water
- Cuticle cream/remover
- Filing and buffing implements
- Cuticle pusher
- Nail brush
- Hand lotion or massage product
- Cuticle oil
- Base coat
- Top coat
- Red polish
- Polish remover *
Sculptured Nail Supplies
- Mannequin hand(s) with artificial nails attached* (Trainer hands are NOT permitted.)
- Cuticle pusher
- Sculptured nail products (powder, primer, liquid) (The product must be sealed and in its original container with the manufacturer’s label. NIC strongly recommends, due to the testing environment, that odorless sculptured nail products be used during the NIC practical examinations.)
- Sculptured nail brush
- Liquid & powder containers
- Filing and buffing implements
- Sculptured nail forms
Hair Removal of The Eyebrows Supplies
- Antiseptic
- Tweezers
- Gloves
- Fabric strips
- Soft wax product/simulated product*
- Post epilation product
- Applicators
Recommended General Supplies
- Dry storage kit/container*
- Hand sanitizer
- Mannequin head(s) and a table clamp* (pre-marked mannequins are NOT permitted)
- A towel to place between the clamp and the table*
- EPA registered disinfectant that demonstrates bactericidal, fungicidal and virucidal properties must be used*
- Container/bag for soiled/trash items ¨ container or bag for items to be disinfected*
- Cloth and paper towel(s)
- Neck strip(s)
- Shampoo cape (child size is appropriate for mannequin)
- Hair clamp(s)
- Comb(s)
- Hair brush(es)
- Spray bottle
- Protective cream
- Spatula(s)
- Protective cotton
- Protective gloves
- First aid supplies (blood spill kit)
- Tape
If you’re feeling good about the supplies you’ve gathered, that’s a great start, but what sets you up for success is how you pack and present them. Think of it like preparing the space to play before a big performance.
The way you organize, disinfect, and label your kit can make a lasting impression on your boards of cosmetology and help you stay calm and confident under pressure.
Whether you’re a student from one of the top cosmetology schools or an independent learner brushing up with practice tests, careful preparation increases your chances of passing the exam. So, how do you get it done? Let’s break it down step by step.
Organizing, Disinfecting, and Labeling Your Kit
Getting your cosmetology set ready for exam day involves three main steps, they are:
Each one plays a key role from start to finish during the state board test for cosmetology. Let’s go through each step to ensure you’re all set for a smooth and successful exam.
Organizing Your Kit
- Use Sealable Plastic Bags: Pack your supplies for each procedure in sealable plastic bags. Label them clearly so you can find what you need quickly.
- Rolling Travel System: Think about using a rolling travel system. It makes carrying your kit easier and keeps everything accessible.
- Categorize Supplies: Group similar items together (like all your hair cutting supplies in one bag) and label each bag with the procedure it’s for. This helps you stay organized and saves time during the exam.
Disinfecting Your Supplies
- Pre-Exam Cleaning: Clean and disinfect all your tools and equipment before packing.
- Use an EPA-approved disinfectant: The EPA(Environmental Protection Agency) approved disinfectant kills bacteria, fungi, and viruses to keep everything safe and hygienic.
- Single-Use Items: Make sure all single-use items are new and haven’t been used before.
- Sharp Implements: Carry sharp tools in a rigid container labeled ‘clean’. After using them, put them in a container labeled ‘dirty’ to avoid any mix-ups and maintain hygiene.
Labeling Your Supplies
Proper labeling is key to ensuring a smooth and efficient exam experience. Follow these tips to keep your kit organized and compliant:
- Use Clear and Descriptive Labels: Label each item clearly (e.g., “Hair Cutting Comb” instead of just “Comb”).
- Categorize by Function: Group and label similar items together (e.g., “Hair Coloring Supplies”).
- Include Quantity and Instructions: Add specific details (e.g., “2 Hair Brushes – One for Wet Hair, One for Dry Hair”).
- Consider Color Coding: Use different colors for different categories (e.g., blue for hair cutting, green for manicuring).
- Follow State Board Guidelines: Ensure labels meet your state’s exam requirements.
- Keep Labels Durable: Use waterproof or laminated labels to withstand spills and wear.
By following these steps—organizing, disinfecting, and labeling—you’ll have a well-prepared, clean, and easy-to-use kit for your cosmetology exam.
Prepare For the Cosmetology State Board Exam
By carefully preparing your kit, you’ll be better equipped to demonstrate your skills confidently during the exam. This thorough preparation aligns with the dedication you’ve shown throughout your training and ensures that your state board set cosmetology supplies meet the required standards, setting the stage for a successful transition into your cosmetology career.
Ensure your cosmetology state board kit is prepared and organized, double-check your state’s specific requirements, and practice using each item to feel comfortable and confident during your exam. Good luck!
Need help to prepare for the state board exam? We’ve got you covered! Learn more about our state board exam review guides below. Also, take up free practice tests to score well in your exams!
FAQs on Cosmetology State Board Kit
1. What is on the Cosmetology State Board Exam?
The cosmetology state board exam has two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam consists of 100-110 multiple-choice questions covering scientific concepts, hair care, skincare, and nail care, and lasts about 90 minutes. The practical exam involves a 2-hour hands-on demonstration of skills, including haircutting, chemical waving, hair coloring, thermal curling, and sanitation.
2. What items are needed to take the cosmetology exam in Texas?
To take the cosmetology exam in Texas, candidates need a comprehensive state board kit including thermal curling supplies, hair-cutting tools, chemical waving supplies, and general sanitation materials. Check with TDLR for a detailed list.
3. Where to take the cosmetology state board exam?
The Texas cosmetology exams are conducted at PSI test centers. Candidates can schedule their exams through the PSI website or by contacting them directly. Ensure you are registered for the correct location and time.
4. How long is the state board cosmetology test?
The practical exam typically lasts about 2 hours, during which candidates must demonstrate various skills on mannequins. The written exam involves a tutorial of 15 minutes followed by 120 minutes to answer 100 graded questions, plus an additional 10 minutes for 10 non-graded questions.
5. How much does it cost to take the state board for cosmetology?
The cost to take the state board exam for cosmetology varies by state. Here are some examples:
- New York: $70 total (application, written exam, and practical exam)
- Florida: $90 total (licensure and examination fees)
- New Jersey: $53 for the written exam (practical fees vary)
- Maryland: $79 for both practical and theory exams
- Washington: At least $35 for the license, plus exam fees paid to the provider
Check your state’s board website for the most current fees.
6. What are the items in the esthetician state board kit list?
While the specific items for the esthetician state board exam may vary, they typically include:
- Facial Supplies
- Waxing Supplies
- Manicure Supplies
- Skin Care Products
- Sanitation Supplies
Candidates should refer to the TDLR for the most current and detailed list of required items for the esthetician exam, as these can differ from the general cosmetology kit.
7. How many times can you take the cosmetology state board exam in Texas?
In Texas, you can retake the exam as many times as needed. Each retake requires payment of the exam fee. Check your state’s specific regulations for retake policies and waiting periods.
Related Reads
How Hard Is Cosmetology School? What You Need To Know Before You Enroll
