Maryland · Board of Cosmetologists
Maryland Cosmetologist Practical Exam
Maryland uses the PSI National Practical test for this licence: 11 graded topic areas, about 235 minutes, and you need 75% to pass. Read from the Cosmetology v1.1, effective 2026-07-08 bulletin.
There is no kit list for this exam. PSI states there are no supply lists or suggested supplies for its National Practical tests. Bring the equipment and supplies you would use for that topic in your own work environment — PSI says there is no right or wrong supply and no right or wrong technique. If you have been looking for a Maryland cosmetologist kit list and cannot find one, that is why — PSI does not publish one. Only the Maryland-specific barber practical has an itemised kit.
Topic order and timing
| Topic | Area | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Workstation preparation | 10 min |
| 2 | Basic manicure | 20 min |
| 3 | Nail enhancement using a form | 20 min |
| 4 | Basic facial | 20 min |
| 5 | Eyebrow waxing and tweezing | 10 min |
| 6 | Haircutting | 20 min |
| 7 | Chemical wave | 30 min |
| 8 | Sodium hydroxide relaxer (straightener) application | 20 min |
| 9 | Color lift | 20 min |
| 10 | Permanent hair color deposit | 20 min |
| 11 | Workstation preparation for next client | 45 min |
| Topics total | 235 min |
PSI states the test runs approximately 235 minutes. The topic timings above add to exactly that. Procedure criteria are graded in the order listed.
What PSI does prescribe
- An unmarked closable container — a "supply kit" — no larger than 24" wide, 24" long and 24" high, so it fits under the table when not in use.
- Any monomer must be a low-odour or odourless product. Product that does not meet this requirement will not be allowed into the testing room.
- You must score at least 75% to pass.
- Electronics of any kind are prohibited in the testing facility.
- Test takers may not speak to or assist other test takers at any time.
Sources
Read from the PSI Candidate Information Bulletin — Cosmetology v1.1, effective 2026-07-08 — on 2026-08-10, through PSI's Maryland candidate portal. PSI stamps a version into every page of these bulletins and revises them; check yours against the current edition before exam day.