PSI Cosmetology & Barber National Exam Program
Experience easy, efficient testing and step-by-step tutorials designed to guide you every step of the way. Your success is our priority, which is why we’ve gathered the essential resources you need to excel.
This page is only for PSI Cos/Bar National Testing States including: AL, CO, GA, KY, MD, MI, and TN. It also applies to California (CA) and Massachusetts (MA), but only for the Theory portion of the exam.
About the PSI Barber & Cosmetology National Testing program
At PSI, we believe every future beauty professional deserves a seamless, stress-free path to licensure, because dreams deserve the best test day experience. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive resource hub tailored for both schools and test takers navigating the Cosmetology & Barber National Exam Program.
Take your Barber & Cosmetology exam with confidence. Our dedicated team is here to support you throughout your testing journey, ensuring an easy scheduling process and a dependable testing experience.
The exam evaluates your knowledge and skills in accordance with local state licensing requirements.
- Exam format: Multiple-choice questions, practical assessments (for select trades).
- Duration: Varies by licensing category.
- Eligibility: Open to individuals with prior authorization, meeting applicable licensing requirements.
Resources
Get started with these helpful tutorials, guides, and tools.
Videos
Learn about the testing experience with these short videos.
FAQs
Review frequently asked questions to ensure you are prepared for test day.
Resources
Whether you're an educator guiding your students toward success or a test taker preparing for your own licensure journey, these resources are here to support you at every step.
From packing your test kit with confidence to applying online, understanding accommodations, and purchasing bulk vouchers, our tools are designed to make your preparation as smooth and empowering as possible. You'll also find direct access to critical PSI documents such as Candidate Information Bulletins (CIBs) and Test Taker Guides (TTGs).
We offer interactive tutorials for remote, virtual, and in-person testing formats, so you’ll know exactly what to expect no matter how you take your exam. Our goal is to remove uncertainty, answer your questions before they arise, and give you the clarity and confidence to walk into test day fully prepared.
Explore everything you need to succeed on test day, all in one place.
Test Kit Packing Tutorial
Step-by-step instructions on how to properly pack your test kit for the PSI National Cosmetology and Barber Exams.
Online Application Tutorial
Guides applicants through the online exam registration process. This information is also available in the Test Taker Guides. Any required forms can be accessed through the online application portal.
(only applicable for: Georgia, Maryland, and Michigan)
Accommodations Tutorial
Provides guidance on how to apply for testing accommodations and outlines the steps involved in the approval process.
Bulk Voucher Purchase Process Document
Explains the process schools must follow to purchase exam vouchers in bulk for their students.
How To Locate Test Taker Guides and Candidate Bulletins
Instructions on how to find the Test Taker Guides and Candidate Information Bulletins (TTG/CIB) for exam preparation.
Remote Theory Testing Tutorial
Walks test takers through the steps for completing the theory portion of the exam remotely.
Note: To access your online proctored theory exam, log in to your account to find the test link.
Virtual Practical Testing Tutorial
Details the procedures for completing the practical portion of the exam virtually, including setup and submission.
Note: Your Virtual Evaluator will send a separate email to the email address listed on your PSI account. This will contain the Webex Link you will use to login to your virtual practical exam on test day.
Onsite Testing Tutorial
Outlines instructions for test takers who will be completing their exam in person at a PSI testing center.
Exam locations and availability
The license exam is available online and at approved test centers in your state. Candidates applying for state licensure must adhere to the testing guidelines set by the test sponsor.
Schedule or manage your exam
Prepare for your exam
Test Center experience
Get familiar with the in-person testing process when visiting one of our Test Centers on your test day.
Online Proctoring experience
Understand what to expect when testing remotely for a seamless online test day.
Cosmetology & Barber Exam FAQs
How do I schedule a PSI exam?
For most test programs, PSI provides two easy methods to schedule test appointments: You may schedule your exam online via your PSI account or via phone by calling the Candidate Service Center (refer to the Test Taker Guide for your specific state Customer Service phone number).
What information should I be prepared to provide when I schedule my appointment?
To schedule an exam, be prepared to provide the following information:
- Valid government issued ID. At minimum, the government ID must shows your name in the English alphabet, your signature, and your photograph.
- The name used to schedule your appointment, which must exactly match the name shown on your identification.
- Your Social Security or Sponsor issued I.D. Number.
- Contact phone numbers so we can reach you if there is an unexpected event.
- Email address where you would like your score report or other important information delivered.
- Exam title.
- Eligibility information, if required.
- Method of payment, if applicable.
How can I find out where the test center is located?
Please visit our website to locate the closest test center to you.
Can I cancel and/or reschedule my test appointment via the PSI Web site?
Many test appointments can be cancelled and/or rescheduled through logging in to your account. Typically, we allow you to schedule 1 day prior if space is available and we require 2 business days to reschedule your exam without penalty. Check the Test Taker Guide for rescheduling rules.
Why would my local test center tell me that they don't schedule appointments?
The testing centers’ primary purpose is to administer exams. Test takers should visit our website or contact our Candidate Service Center to schedule an exam appointment. Test center staff cannot schedule appointments for their test center under any circumstances.
How do I obtain the appointment date and time I want to take my exam?
When you go to our website or speak to a representative from our Candidate Service Center you will be asked to provide your preferred test date. The first available time slot on that date will be offered to you. If your preferred appointment date is not available, you will see available sessions online, and/or a Candidate Service Center representative will work with you to identify a convenient appointment date.
My appointment is scheduled for today, however the testing center is closed. What should I do?
In rare cases weather or an emergency forces a test center closure. If this happens you will be contacted by the PSI rescheduling department within 24-48 hours to reschedule your appointment. We apologize for any inconvenience. Visit our website for a full list of site closures.
How far in advance must you schedule an exam?
Exam sessions are available at least 6 weeks in advance. You will have the best opportunity to schedule your preferred date if you schedule 4-6 weeks prior to your preferred date.
What payment methods may I use to pay for my examination?
If a fee is required to pay for your examination, PSI accepts a valid Visa, MasterCard or American Express.
When will my credit card be charged?
If a fee is required to pay for your examination, your credit card will be charged immediately when submitting the card number online or by phone with a Candidate Service Center Representative.
How can I request a receipt?
If a fee is required to pay for your examination, you can print your receipt by logging into your account and then choosing the View/Print Receipt option.
How do I determine the fee for a particular exam?
If a fee is required to pay for your examination, you can locate the fee on our website while scheduling or refer to the Test Taker Guide.
For more details and FAQs, visit our Test Takers Support page.
Get Started Today!
Take the next step in your Barber & Cosmetology career by scheduling your exam today with the PSI National Testing program. Find a test center near you!