New York · Esthetics

New York Esthetics State Board Exam Prep

Practice the exact content State puts on your New York esthetics exam. Mapped to the official topic breakdown below — no guessing, no generic Milady-style filler.

Start Free — Take a Practice Test See Plans

The New York exam, at a glance

Direct from the New York Department of State - Division of Licensing Services and the State candidate bulletin.

Required Hours
600 hrs
Exam Provider
State
Exam Format
written + practical
Passing Score
75%
Minimum Age
17
Renewal
Every 4 years
CE Hours
0
Reciprocity
Yes

Source: New York Department of State - Division of Licensing Services

State topic breakdown for New York

Your SGS dashboard tracks your score in each of these categories so you know exactly where to study.

How SGS gets New York students over the passing line

The tools students use every night in the 30 days before their test.

The Final Look
Full-length mock exam built on the State topic map above. Every wrong answer is tagged back to the category so your weak areas surface fast.
Practice Tests
Chapter-by-chapter quizzes. Scoreboards + streaks so it doesn't feel like a textbook.
Flash & Know
Spaced-repetition flashcards. 15 minutes a night covers a full chapter.
The Board Game
Category-style trivia. Turns review into addictive play so studying doesn't feel like studying.

FAQ — New York esthetics licensing

What score do I need to pass the New York esthetics state board exam?

New York uses the State exam, which requires 75% or higher to pass. Practicing at least 10% above that on SGS mock exams is the sweet spot students who pass on the first try hit.

How many hours are required for esthetics licensing in New York?

New York requires 600 training hours for esthetics, along with completing the State exam (written + practical). Minimum age is 17.

How does SGS align with the State exam content?

Every SGS practice question is mapped to the same topic categories State uses: Skin Care Services and Facials; Health and Safety (Sanitation, Infection Control); Skin Anatomy, Disorders, and Analysis; Hair Removal (Waxing, Tweezing). Your progress dashboard shows which categories you're strong in and which need work before test day.

Can I study on my phone?

Yes. SGS works in any mobile browser — no app install required. Flashcards, practice tests, and The Final Look exam all work on iPhone, Android, and tablet. Save your seat in The Lounge to sync progress across devices.

Other states · Esthetics

GeorgiaTexasCaliforniaFloridaIllinoisPennsylvaniaOhioNorth Carolina

See all 50 states →

Three study tips specific to New York

  1. Since Skin Care Services and Facials make up a whopping 40% of your exam, don't just memorize steps. Practice the flow of a full facial, from consultation to post-care. Think about the "why" behind each product and technique.
  2. Don't skimp on Health and Safety, even though it's 25%. This isn't just about passing; it's about protecting yourself and your future clients. Focus on New York State's specific regulations for disinfection and sterilization – they can be tricky.
  3. While Hair Removal is only 15%, it’s often where practical application really shines. Make sure you understand the different types of wax, proper hair growth direction, and contraindications. Those few questions can make a difference!

A common mistake New York candidates make

A big one I see is candidates not fully grasping the consultation and skin analysis phase within the Skin Care Services and Facials section. It's easy to jump straight to the treatment, but New York wants to see you understand how to properly assess a client's skin, identify contraindications, and recommend appropriate services. Don't just gloss over the initial steps; practice asking open-ended questions, observing skin conditions, and documenting your findings. This sets the stage for the entire facial and demonstrates a crucial professional skill.

Seven-day countdown checklist

  1. Day 7: Review all notes on Skin Care Services and Facials, focusing on treatment protocols, product application, and client consultation.
  2. Day 6: Dedicate time to Health and Safety, specifically New York State's disinfection and sanitation rules for implements and surfaces.
  3. Day 5: Practice identifying different skin conditions and types. Quiz yourself on the layers of the skin and relevant anatomy.
  4. Day 4: Go through your Hair Removal notes, paying attention to waxing contraindications and proper technique for different areas.
  5. Day 3: Take a full practice exam, timing yourself. Identify areas where you consistently struggle.
  6. Day 2: Briefly review your weakest areas from the practice exam. Pack your bag with essentials (ID, confirmation, snacks).
  7. Day 1: Relax! Get a good night's sleep. Avoid cramming. Trust the work you've put in.

Ready to pass in New York?

Free trial. No credit card. Start a practice test in under a minute.

Take Your First Practice Test