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Getting your barbering license takes 9-18 months of training, passing a state board exam, and filing an application. Barbering is a separate license from cosmetology in most states. Here is the full process.
1,000-1,500
Training Hours
9-18 mo
Program Length
$5K-$20K
Total Cost
16-17+
Minimum Age
Barbering licensing is separate from cosmetology in most states, with its own state board (or a combined cosmetology/barbering board). The requirements are similar in structure but the training focuses on hair cutting, shaving, and facial hair services.
Most states require a high school diploma or GED. Some states allow enrollment in barber school at age 16 while still in high school, but you will need your diploma or GED before the license is issued.
States require between 1,000 and 1,500 hours of barber training from a state-approved school. Training covers hair cutting, clipper techniques, razor shaving, facial hair design, chemical services (coloring, relaxing), sanitation, and the underlying science (anatomy, chemistry, infection control). Some states accept apprenticeship hours instead.
The minimum age is 16 or 17 in most states. Some states allow you to begin training before reaching the minimum licensing age, as long as you meet the age requirement before taking the exam.
Visit your state barber board website to confirm the exact hour requirements, minimum age, and which exam your state uses. Some states have a combined cosmetology/barbering board. Hour requirements range from 1,000 (New York) to 1,500 (Texas, Georgia).
Choose a school approved by your state barber board and accredited by NACCAS. Compare tuition, schedule, and exam pass rates. Some cosmetology schools also offer barbering programs. Community colleges may offer more affordable options.
Attend classes and accumulate the required hours. Full-time programs typically take 9-12 months; part-time programs take 12-18 months. Training covers cutting, shaving, facial hair design, chemical services, sanitation, anatomy, and business practices.
Once your school confirms your hours, apply with your state board or testing provider to schedule your exam. Submit proof of training, identification, and the exam fee ($50-$200).
The NIC Barbering exam has 60 questions in 60 minutes — one question per minute. Hair Care Services (40%) and Scientific Concepts (35%) make up 75% of the exam. Focus your study time on these two domains.
Many states require a practical exam where you demonstrate hair cutting, shaving, and sanitation procedures. The practical tests both your technical skill and your knowledge of safety protocols. Some states have eliminated the practical.
After passing, submit your application to your state board with the licensing fee ($25-$100). Most states issue your license within 2-6 weeks. You can then legally practice barbering in that state.
The total cost of getting a barbering license is similar to cosmetology. Here is a typical breakdown:
Barber school tuition
Varies by school and state. Community college programs are typically cheaper.
$5,000 - $15,000
Books and supplies
Clippers, razors, mannequins, and textbooks. Some schools include this.
$500 - $1,200
Written exam fee
Paid to the testing provider (NIC or PSI). Per attempt.
$50 - $100
Practical exam fee
If your state requires a practical exam. Per attempt.
$50 - $100
License application fee
One-time fee to your state barber board.
$25 - $100
License renewal
Ongoing. Some states require continuing education.
$25 - $75/year
Every state has its own barbering licensing rules. Here are detailed guides for the most-searched states:
Barbering Exam Prep Guide
Full exam format, domains, and study plan
Barbering Exam Pass Rates
Pass rate data by state
Here's a real exam-style question. See if you know the answer, then start practicing for free.