California Cosmetologist License & PSI Theory Exam Preparation Application Exam Information
CA California Cosmetology GuideTraining · Application · PSI exam · License
Approved schools

Verify the school before signing or paying.

Verify a school and its 1,000-hour cosmetology program before enrollment, and understand hours, transfers, Proof of Training, and externship limits.

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The state minimum is 1,000 hours.

A school may offer a longer program, but it must disclose hours that exceed the state minimum for licensure.

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Before enrolling

  • Confirm the campus and cosmetology program appear on the current Board list.
  • Ask for total tuition, kit, books, fees, refund policy, schedule, and expected completion date.
  • Ask how transfer hours are evaluated and documented.
  • Confirm how and when the school issues Proof of Training.
  • Review the school's published examination results and student disclosures.

Externship is limited

Eligible cosmetology students may gain supervised establishment experience after completing at least 25% of required hours, subject to program and weekly-hour rules. It does not replace required school hours.