South Dakota Cosmetology Exam 2026: Everything Covered

Basic requirements to apply

You must meet all of the following before testing:

• Age: At least 18 years old
  
• Education: High school diploma or GED
  
• Training: 1,500 hours of cosmetology education from an approved program
  
• Application: Submit the official Examination Application to the South Dakota Cosmetology Commission
  
• Fees: Pay the required exam and licensing fees

Exams you must pass

South Dakota requires passing:

• NIC National Written (Theory) Exam
  
• South Dakota Laws & Rules Exam

Both exams are required for licensure.

After approval

Once your application is approved, you can schedule your exams through the state’s testing provider.

What happens after you apply

• Your application is reviewed by the South Dakota Cosmetology Commission
  
• Processing time may vary, so apply early
  
• Once approved, you’ll receive an exam authorisation code
  
• This code is required to book your exams
  
• Schedule the NIC Written and South Dakota Laws exams through Prov

Tip: Double-check your application to avoid delays.

Source: NIC Testing

South Dakota uses NIC scoring standards

South Dakota follows the NIC (National Interstate Council) exam passing criteria for cosmetology:

• You must score 75% or higher on the NIC Written Theory and Practical Exam.
  
• You must also clear the South Dakota Laws & Rules exam.

Each section is scored independently. Passing one section does not mean you’ve passed the other.

What happens if you don’t pass

If you don’t reach 75%, you will need to retake the section you failed.

How to apply for the retake:

• Pay the retest fee: Log in to your Prov account and pay the retest fee ($90) for the failed section. Payment is required before scheduling.

• Schedule your retake: After payment, choose a new exam date and location through Prov.
  
• Retake only the failed section: You do not need to retake sections you have already passed.

• $120 exam fee: Covers your first exam attempt and the initial cosmetology license if you pass.
  
• $90 retake fee: Paid only if you need to retake a failed exam section.
  
• All fees are non-refundable and must be paid before scheduling exams.

Official source: SOUTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF LABOR & REGULATION

Required items

• Valid photo ID (name must match your registration)
  
• Exam admission/confirmation from Prov
  
• Complete practical kit, including:
  
  • Mannequin(s), if required
    
  • Tools and implements
    
  • Labelled containers and supplies
    
  • Sanitation items (disinfectants, gloves, etc.)

What NOT to bring

• Phones, smartwatches, or electronic devices
  
• Notes, books, or study materials
  
• Extra personal items not listed by Prov

Important tips

• Follow Prov’s exact supply list; missing items can affect your score.
  
• Arrive early to allow time for check-in and setup

How results are delivered:

• Results timing: Pass/fail results are posted 48–72 hours after the exam (no weekends or holidays).
  
• How to check results: Log in to your online licensee portal and check your application status.
  
• After you pass: Once all requirements are met, your cosmetology license is usually mailed within 72 hours.

How to choose the language

• When you schedule on Prov, you’ll select the exam + language in the dropdown. (Guide)
  
• Vietnamese is supported for the NIC cosmetology theory exam (Vietnamese exam bulletin is provided by the Commission).
  
• For any other exam section, use the dropdown to confirm the available language options during registration.