17. An applicant seeking licensure as a cosmetologist-hairstylist shall:

   a.   (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2009, c.162)
 
   b.   Demonstrate successful completion of a course in cosmetology and hairstyling consisting of:
 
   (1)   Instruction at a school of cosmetology and hairstyling licensed in this State, the curriculum for which shall be established by the board pursuant to regulation; or
 
   (2)   A program in a public school approved by the State Board of Education to offer a vocational program in cosmetology and hairstyling, or other cosmetology and hairstyling program approved by the State Board of Education; or
 
   (3)   Instruction at a school of cosmetology and hairstyling licensed in another state or a foreign country which, in the opinion of the board, offers curricula which is substantially similar to that offered at licensed schools within the State; and
 
   c.   Take and pass an examination conducted by the board, as provided by this act.
 
   L.1984, c.205, s.17; amended 1985, c.272, s.1; 2009, c.162, s.16.