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California cosmetology board reopens debate on reinstating practical exam; no immediate action
Summary
The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology discussed whether to ask the Legislature to restore the hands-on practical exam eliminated after the last sunset review. Board staff said reinstatement would require legislative action and carry significant operational cost; some board members urged more data on exam pass rates and Spanish-language outcomes.
Board of Barbering and Cosmetology staff and members revisited whether to reinstate the state practical examination for cosmetology and related licenses during the board's Oct. 21 meeting in Sacramento.
The practical exam was eliminated as part of the legislature's adoption of SB 803 during the prior sunset review, and board staff told members any restoration would require a legislative bill. "We would have to ask the legislature to give back what was taken away at sunset review," board staff said, noting the board no longer operates practical testing sites and had reduced related staff and leases.
Why it matters: reinstating a hands-on exam would change the licensing pathway for thousands of applicants and require new facilities, staff and funding. Board staff said those costs are unknown but likely substantial…
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