What must an applicant do if they fail either portion of the exam and do not retake within a year?

If an applicant fails either portion of the exam and does not retake it within a year, the requirement is that the applicant must take both portions of the exam again. This policy ensures that individuals maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills in all areas of the profession, as conditions in the field may change and evolve over time. Requiring both portions helps to ensure comprehensive competency among cosmetologists, thereby enhancing public safety and standards within the profession. This approach underscores the importance of a well-rounded skill set rather than allowing individuals to rely on previously passed components of the exam, which may not adequately reflect their current capabilities.