Cosmetology School. The first step to becoming a cosmetologist is to enroll in a cosmetology program and complete it. ...requirements for training hours. "Training Hours" tracks the time you spend training to be a cosmetologist in a cosmetology program. Required Tests. In most cases, passing the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) exam is your final hurdle in your journey to becoming a licensed cosmetologist. At least a dozen states are waiving mandatory training hours for students participating in apprenticeship programs.