How Do I Earn a Barber's License?
Do you enjoy conversing with people? Do you want to help people look good? As a barber, you can provide a service to the community and you may even become a small business owner. Read on for information on how to earn a barber's license. Schools offering Aromatherapy degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
Barber's License Requirements
In order to qualify for a barbering licensing, most states require that you earn a high school diploma or GED. Many state barbering licensing boards have a minimum age requirement and mandate that you complete a certain number of hours in a training program or apprenticeship to qualify for the licensing exam. Because state licensing requirements vary, you may wish to check with your state's board of barbering and cosmetology to ensure you meet the necessary requirements.
Training Programs and Coursework
Barber training programs can be found in vocational schools and community colleges and can be found as diploma, certificate and associate degree programs. Some states allow you to train as an apprentice to a licensed barber and earn a small wage while building skills and experience. In general, these programs can be completed within 1-2 years.
As a student, you will learn how to provide hair care services, such as trimming, cutting and shampooing hair for mainly male customers. You will work with multiple kinds of hair - including hairpieces, weaves and wigs - and learn common approaches for styling. You will learn important safety and sanitation techniques, basic skin care, nail care and shaving techniques. Most diploma programs provide some business training as well, including sales, shop management and customer service.
License Exam Information
States require between 200-2000 hours of combined training and education in order to qualify to take the barber's licensure exam. Exams usually consist of two sections: a written test and a hands-on styling or practical test. In general, the written portion takes 1-2 hours and consists of multiple-choice questions testing your knowledge of hair care skills, safety and sanitation techniques. The practical exam portion may take longer and usually requires you to demonstrate your skills on a live model.
Employment and Salary Info
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of barbers was expected to grow about as fast as the average growth in employment from 2008-2018 (www.bls.gov). As a licensed barber, you may start your career renting a station in a salon, building your skills and establishing a clientele. With experience, many barbers open their own shops. The BLS reported that the middle half of barbers earned between $19,530-$31,480 in 2009.
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