How Long Does it Take to Get Your Barber License?
If you’re interested in a career as a barber, then you may be wondering what steps you’ll need to complete in order to begin working in the field. It’s important to understand that each state has its own specific requirements, but all states have one in common: in order to practice as a barber, you will need to obtain (and keep) a barber license. In most states, it is also true that barbers will need to be at least 16 years of age and have completed high school or an equivalent diploma program (such as a GED). And while you’ll want to check with your state’s specific requirements for licensure, most states also require a process of education/training and testing.
Education and Training
Many states will require some form of higher education as the first step towards earning your barber license; the specific number of credit and/or training hours that need to be completed, however, may vary from one state to the next. During your education and training, you will learn about specific barbering techniques and methods. You may also learn more about interpersonal skills, as working as a barber will require you to be in friendly social contact with your clients on a daily basis. Some programs will even track your training hours, allowing you to work and practice your skills on live clients.
Testing and Licensure Application
Typically, once you have completed your formal barber education and training, you will need to pass one or more state-administered licensing examinations. This may involve a written exam as well as an evaluation of certain skills that you will need to know on the job. You can take these exams as many times as you need to pass, but you should keep in mind that there is typically a fee that is charged each time you register for the exam and you may be required to take additional hours of schooling in order to re-take exams, check with your state’s Dept. of Business and Professional Regulations division (DBPR). Therefore, repeat efforts may begin to add up in terms of time and costs.
Once you pass your exam(s), you will be able to formally apply for your license, which is usually done through your state’s Department of Labor. There may also be fees associated with this application, so research and plan accordingly. Once your application has been approved, you will be notified and you will receive your official licensure. At that point, you are legally able to begin practicing as a barber in your state!
Working as a barber can be a very rewarding career. You will see results as you build your clientele and perfect your awesome skills and techniques to create a business of your own! So getting the education and holding an active license will set you on the right track to become what you have imagined you could be so your training and skills will come together to make your Barbering career a long and successful one!
