How to Become a Licensed Barber: 5 Decisions You Need to Make
Are you interested in becoming a licensed barber? After reading this guide, you will be aware of the 5 decisions you will need to make on your journey to the barbershop.
5 Decisions to Become a Barber
Which program will you choose?
How will you pay for it?
How long will it take you to complete?
How will you prepare for the exam?
Where will you work?
Decision 1: Barber School or Apprenticeship
Barber School
The fastest way to get your barber license is to go to barber school. In California, you need to complete 1000 hours from an approved barber school. Depending on the school, you can choose to be a full-time student or part-time student.
At the end of the day, it is a race to get to 1000 hours. If you are a full-time student, attending 40 hours per week then it will take you 25 weeks (roughly 6-7 months) to complete your hours. This is by far the fastest way to do it.
Apprenticeship
Your other option is to apprentice. In California, you will need to complete 3200 hours from an approved apprenticeship program over 2 years. This option gives you the opportunity to work in a barbershop and get paid, while completing your hours. The down side is that it takes longer. 1000 hours vs 3200 hours is a pretty big difference.
As an apprentice, you will take classes at least once a week. Depending on the location, this may require a long commute once per week for 2 years.
Cost
It depends on the program but the cost ranges from $10,000 to $25,000.
Choose Your Barber School or Apprenticeship
I recommend creating a list of all the barber schools and apprenticeship programs that are within your area. Research the cost of each program, calculate the cost of mileage/gas, read online reviews, look at their website, follow their social media, message one of their students, do a visit, go get a haircut from the program etc. Look up the pass rates for the barber school/apprenticeship online through state board website. Make sure you do your due diligence before signing up.
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Decision 2: How will you pay for it?
Paying for the Program
You have a few options. Most schools will require an initial payment or deposit when you enroll. You would then be put on a monthly payment plan to pay off your remaining balance. Financial aid is available to some schools. If you need financial assistance, you can always take out a loan, apply for beauty school scholarships or create a savings plan.
Decision 3: How long will it take you to complete the program?
You can either enroll as a part-time student or a full-time student. Depending on your financial situation or lifestyle, one may be better than the other.
Full-time = 40 hours per week
Part-time = less than 40 hours per week. You will need to coordinate with the program to see if they will accommodate for you.
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Decision 4: How will you prepare for the exam?
Apply for Your Exam Date
Once you have completed your hours from either barber school or your apprenticeship program, you will then apply to take your state board barber exam. You can do so digitally through State Board Website. There will be a fee associated with applying for your exam. Once approved, they will send you a date for your exam.
Study for the Exam
Most State’s will provide a Candidate Information Bulletin that will contain all of the topics you will be tested on. This CIB is your best friend. As long as you know the topics on the CIB, you will be in good shape. Download my free barber exam study guide for help.
Take the Exam
This varies from state to state. Historically, there were 2 parts to the exam: a practical portion and a written portion. It has changed. Depending on your state, you may have a practical exam and a written exam or you may just have a written exam. Recently, state’s have been changing their format. Be sure to reference my exam information guide or check your state board’s website for clarification.
Pass the Exam
A passing grade is typically 75%. In California, if you pass your exam, state board will physically print and hand you your official license immediately. Pretty cool right? You could legally go work in a barbershop the same day you pass your exam.
Re-Take the Exam
If you fail your exam, you will have the opportunity to take it again. You can take it as many times as you need to. There will be a re-application fee. In California, it costs $75 to retake your exam.
Decision 5: Where will you work?
3 Types of Barbershops
Once you pass the exam and you are licensed! Now it’s time to figure out where to work. There are 3 common types of barbershops to choose from: Booth Rental, Commission or hourly.
Booth Rent: you typically pay a fixed rent fee (either daily, weekly, or monthly) to the shop owner. You keep all the money you earn from your services, including tips. Your income is determined solely by how many clients you can serve.
Commission: you receive a percentage (commission) of the revenue generated from your services. The shop owner typically covers overhead costs, such as rent, utilities, and supplies. Common commission splits are 70-30 or 60-40. You keep 70% while the owner receives 30%.
Hourly: you receive a set hourly wage for the hours you work. Overtime pay may apply if you work more than a certain number of hours in a week.
Some shops will have a combination of these 3 types. For example: you are booth rent and receive a 10% commission for products sold.
If you are serious about becoming a barber, these are the 5 decisions you will need to make. Always do your research, consider the pros and cons of each option and be sure to assess your current situation to figure out what is best for you.
Written by Matthew Mendoza
Matthew Mendoza is a licensed barber, educator and consultant. He hosts the podcast Beyond Barber School which provides emerging barbers with the critical guidance needed to start their business. In addition, he writes a newsletter called theGuideline about the latest trends in the barber industry.
