Education · 1 of 5
The path
School, a state exam, a license, then a year of building a client list.
- 1
High school diploma or GED (General Educational Development test)
Grade 12
Most states require one before you can enroll in barber school.
- 2
Barber school
9 to 15 months
A state approved program. Full-time programs usually run at least 9 months, and each state sets its own required hours, commonly somewhere around 1,000 to 1,500.
- 3
Or an apprenticeship, in some states
2 to 3 years
A few states let you train under a licensed barber in a working shop instead of paying tuition. The hour count is higher, but you earn while you learn.
- 4
State board exam
A few weeks after school
A written test plus a practical exam where you cut and shave on a mannequin or a live model in front of an examiner.
- 5
Get licensed and build a book
1 to 3 years
Your first year is about speed and regulars. After that you choose between commission, booth rent and your own shop.