Barber License in Georgia
This guide details the step-by-step process to become a licensed barber in Georgia, incorporating 1500 hours of training split between 250 classroom hours and 1250 clinical hours. The total path duration ranges from 12 to 18 months, with costs varying between $5,000 and $15,000 depending on the choice of school and additional fees.
Photo by Iain Feeney on Unsplash
The barbering profession in Georgia presents a stable and growing career opportunity, with a median annual salary of $35,570 and an employment sector poised for a 4.1% growth by 2034. These figures reflect a healthy demand for skilled barbers, driven by an increasing population and a heightened focus on personal grooming and wellness. Choosing a career as a licensed barber in Georgia not only offers financial stability but also provides a platform for creative expression and personal interaction, making it an attractive option for many looking to enter the workforce or change careers.
Georgia's specific requirements for barbers set it apart from other states. The state mandates a detailed licensing process that ensures all practicing barbers meet high standards of skill and professionalism. This regulatory environment helps maintain the quality of service, which in turn supports a healthier competitive market. Additionally, Georgia boasts a diverse demographic, which allows barbers to cater to a wide range of hair types and styling preferences, further enhancing their expertise and business prospects. The state's major cities, such as Atlanta and Savannah, offer bustling environments with numerous salons and barber shops, providing ample employment opportunities.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to become a licensed barber in Georgia. Readers will learn about the specific steps required to obtain a barber license, including educational requirements, exams, and necessary paperwork. The guide also offers insights into salary expectations based on regional variations within the state and discusses the overall job market for barbers in Georgia. By detailing these aspects, the guide aims to equip prospective barbers with the knowledge needed to successfully navigate the certification process and begin a rewarding career in this field.
Licensing Authority
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers
In Georgia, obtaining a Barber License requires completing specific educational and training prerequisites, passing an examination, and meeting background check requirements. The state ensures that all licensed barbers meet high standards for safety and competency.
Official Resources
Georgia Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or GED
- Total Training Hours
- 1500 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 250 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 1250 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- CPR certification recommended
Certification Exam
- Exam
- Georgia Master Barber Examination
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Exam fee varies by provider
How to Become a Barber License in Georgia
tuition $4000-$14000, exam fee $100, background check $50, application fee $30, textbooks/supplies $300, scrubs $100
Fastest Path
12 months
Typical Timeline
15 months
Estimated Cost
$5000–$15000
Verify Eligibility for Barber Licensing in Georgia
Before proceeding, ensure you meet Georgia's prerequisites for barber licensing. You must be at least 16 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be legally eligible to work in the U.S. Visit the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers website to review detailed eligibility requirements and download the necessary forms. This step is crucial as it determines your eligibility to enroll in a state-approved training program.
Tip
Ensure all documents are up to date and readily available to avoid delays.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Georgia requires a comprehensive background check, including an FBI fingerprint check. Visit your local police department to get fingerprinted, which you can set up through the Georgia Applicant Processing Service (GAPS). Health screenings must include a TB test and potentially other vaccinations; check the latest requirements online. Processing time for background checks can take up to 4 weeks. Ensure all health tests are current (within the last 12 months) to be accepted.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting and health tests as early as possible to mitigate any potential delays.
Select a State-Approved Barber Training Program
Research and choose a barber training program approved by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. Only graduates from approved programs are eligible to take the licensing exam. Programs typically include 1500 hours of training, split into 250 classroom hours and 1250 clinical hours. Use the Board's website to verify that a program is approved. Attending a non-approved program means you cannot sit for the state exam, wasting time and money.
Tip
Check program reviews and completion rates to choose a reputable school.
Enroll in and Complete the Barber Training Program
Once you have selected a state-approved program, enroll and complete the required 1500 hours of training, which includes 250 hours of classroom learning and 1250 hours of clinical experience. Ensure you maintain good attendance and track all hours, as this is crucial for exam eligibility. Upon completion, your school will issue a certificate of completion which is necessary for exam registration.
Tip
Keep a personal record of all training hours in case of discrepancies with school records.
Prepare for the Georgia Barber Licensing Exam
Begin preparing for the Georgia Barber Licensing Exam, which includes both written and practical components. The written exam typically consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, covering topics such as sanitation, barbering techniques, and state laws. Use study guides and past exam papers to prepare. The practical exam requires demonstrating competency in various barbering skills. Consider joining study groups or finding online resources to enhance your preparation.
Tip
Regularly test your knowledge with practice exams to identify areas needing improvement.
Register for and Schedule the Barber Licensing Exam
Register for the Georgia Barber Licensing Exam through the designated testing vendor, Pearson VUE. You will need to provide your certificate of completion from the training program and pay the exam fee. Schedule your exam date, location, and time through Pearson VUE's website. Make sure to register early as slots can fill up quickly, especially in busier testing centers.
Tip
Choose a testing date that gives you ample time for preparation but is soon enough to keep the information fresh.
Take and Pass the Barber Licensing Exam
On the day of your exam, arrive early with two forms of ID and your exam confirmation. The written exam will test your knowledge with 100 multiple-choice questions, and you will need to pass with a score of at least 70%. The practical exam involves demonstrating various barbering techniques. If you fail, you can reschedule through Pearson VUE, but you must wait at least 30 days before retaking the exam.
Tip
Review all exam rules and requirements the night before to ensure a smooth test day experience.
Apply for Georgia Barber License and Registration
After passing the exam, apply for your Georgia barber license through the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. Submit your exam results, proof of training completion, and the licensing fee. The processing time can take up to 6 weeks. Once approved, your license will be mailed to you, and your name will be added to the state's online registry of licensed barbers.
Tip
Double-check your application for accuracy to avoid delays in processing.
Verify Your License and Begin Your Career
Once your barber license is issued, verify your status on the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers' online registry. This verification is important as employers will check this registry. Begin your job search by visiting local barber shops, checking online job portals, and networking within the industry. Consider starting as an apprentice to gain experience and client trust.
Tip
Keep your resume updated with your license number and any relevant experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Georgia Board of Cosmetology and Barbers approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
Georgia Barber Licensure Examination administered by Professional Testing Inc.
Written Test
Questions: 100
Time Limit: 90 minutes
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: 70%
- • Scientific Concepts (30%)
- • Hair Care and Services (40%)
- • Skin Care and Services (15%)
- • Nail Care and Services (15%)
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 5
Time Per Skill: 30 minutes per skill
Candidates perform tasks on a mannequin head under examiner supervision.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID
- ✓ Admission ticket
- ✓ Basic set of barber tools (scissors, combs, clippers)
- ✓ Mannequin head and stand
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items such as bags or purses
- ✗ Electronic devices including cell phones and smartwatches
- ✗ Books or notes
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 1.5 hours. Break for 30 minutes. Skills test totals 2.5 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are issued via an online portal within two weeks of exam completion.
If You Don't Pass
Candidates can retake the exam after 30 days. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial test fee. There is no limit on the number of retakes allowed in Georgia.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Familiarize yourself with the format of multiple choice questions to improve speed and accuracy.
- 2. During the skills test, focus on clean execution of techniques rather than speed, as precision is often scored higher.
- 3. Manage time efficiently, especially during the skills test, to ensure all tasks are completed within the allotted time.
- 4. Practice with a mannequin head to simulate exam conditions and improve your comfort level with the tasks.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From previous educational institutions or GED testing service · Varies · Varies, typically 2-4 weeks
Required to enroll in a state-approved barber training program
Proof of Age and Identity
State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or vital statistics office · Varies · Immediate to 2 weeks
Typically a state-issued ID or passport
TB Test Results
Local clinics or healthcare providers · Approximately $20-$50 · 1-3 days
Some barber schools require tuberculosis clearance
CPR Certification
American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or other certified providers · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies, typically one day for the course
Certification must be current through the duration of training
Barber School Enrollment Application
Specific barber school · Varies · Varies
Each school has its own application process and fee structure
2During Training
Record of Hours Completed
From barber school · Included in tuition · Ongoing, issued upon completion
Georgia requires 1,500 hours of training at an approved barber school
Performance Evaluations
From barber school · Included in tuition · Ongoing, issued periodically
Evaluations may be required to progress or graduate
First Aid Certification
American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or other certified providers · Approximately $50-$100 · Typically one day for the course
Some schools require certification as part of the curriculum
3For the Exam
Exam Application
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers · Approximately $30
Must be submitted to schedule the licensing exam
Proof of Training Completion
From barber school · Included in tuition
Official document showing completion of required training hours
Exam Fee
Paid to the exam administrator (PSI Services, LLC or similar) · Approximately $109
Fee covers both the written and practical parts of the exam
4For Certification
Barber License Application
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers · Approximately $60
Required after passing the exam to receive the official license
Passport-sized Photo
Photo centers or similar services · Approximately $10-$15
Needed for the identification card on the license
License Fee
Paid to the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers · Approximately $60
Final fee for issuing the barber license
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your name on the Georgia Board of Cosmetology and Barbers' online registry. Obtain your physical Barber License certificate by following the instructions provided by the state board.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed.com, Glassdoor.com, local barber shop websites, and the Georgia Department of Labor's job board
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Local barber shops, franchised salons like Great Clips, high-end salons, and spas. Expect varying client demographics and service types depending on the employer
Resume Tip: List your barber school, any internships, specific skills like different cutting techniques, customer service experiences, and any relevant certifications like CPR
Interview Tip: Be prepared to discuss why you chose barbering, your strengths and weaknesses, a challenging customer service scenario you handled, and demonstrate your haircutting skills if requested
Expected First-Year Salary
In Georgia, a starting Barber can expect to earn between $20,000 to $30,000 annually, depending on location, tips, and hours worked.
Career Advancement Path
Master Barber
1500 hours of training or one year of work experience beyond the initial barber license requirements
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Building a steady clientele, managing slow business periods, staying updated with trends, and physical demands of the job like long periods of standing
Barber License Salary in Georgia
In Georgia, the median salary for barbers is $35,570 per year, or $17.10 per hour, slightly below the national median. This slight difference may affect the attractiveness of barbering roles in Georgia compared to other states.
Entry Level
$26,770
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$35,570
$17.1/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$61,090
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$36,150 national · -1.6% in Georgia
Salary by Metro Area
Greater demand and potentially higher earnings in urban areas
Salary by Employer Type
While Georgia's cost of living is generally lower than the national average, the slightly lower barber salaries may still present budgeting challenges for residents.
Benefits & Compensation
Benefits may include health insurance, paid time off, and continuing education opportunities, but can vary greatly by employer.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth can be expected with experience, specialization, and location shift within the state.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research typical salaries in your area and for your experience level
- •Consider factors like benefits and work-life balance in addition to salary
Job Market in Georgia
In Georgia, the barber license job market is experiencing steady growth, reflecting the national trend of a 4.1% increase from 2024 to 2034. The state's growing population and a rising interest in personal grooming services contribute to this demand. Urban areas, particularly around Atlanta, show the highest concentration of job openings due to a diverse demographic and a flourishing beauty industry.
Top Hiring Areas
Diverse demographics and a strong focus on fashion and grooming
Growing tourist industry boosting demand for personal care services
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early summer and late winter, aligning with graduation seasons and holiday preparations
Opportunities
- Expansion of services to include skincare and other beauty treatments
- Developing mobile barber services to reach a broader clientele
Challenges
- Keeping up with rapidly changing fashion trends
- Adapting to new health and safety regulations post-COVID-19
Training Programs in Georgia
Georgia offers a variety of barber training programs, primarily through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored apprenticeships.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 12 to 24 months | $4,000 to $10,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 9 to 12 months | $5,000 to $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | 12 to 24 months | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Atlanta, Georgia
Strong focus on hands-on training
Online & Hybrid Options
Some schools offer hybrid programs combining online theoretical studies with in-person practical training.
How to Choose a Program
- •Check the state approval status and accreditation of the program to ensure eligibility for licensure exams.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Barber License program info for Georgia
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$50
CE Hours
5 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Sanitation, Sterilization
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Georgia offers reciprocity for barbers licensed in other states, provided they meet Georgia's education and exam standards or have sufficient work experience.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Proof of current out-of-state license
- Certification of licensure from originating state
State Agreements
Specific agreements vary; contact the board for details.
Additional Exams
May be required depending on the applicant's credentials
Application Process
Submit a completed application with required documentation and fees
Fees
Reciprocity application fee is $75
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents and fees are submitted together to avoid delays
Review study materials provided by the Georgia State Board to prepare efficiently for the exam
Recommended Resources
Milady Standard Barbering Exam Review
Offers a comprehensive set of practice questions and tests, aligned with the Georgia state barber licensing requirements.
Barber Exam Secrets Study Guide by Mometrix
Provides detailed practice questions and strategies specifically designed to help users pass the barber licensing exam in Georgia.
Milady's Standard Professional Barbering Textbook
Covers all necessary topics for the Georgia barber exam including barbering techniques, tools, and health and safety regulations.
The Barber's Manual by Harry M. Buckley
A guide that teaches both traditional and modern barbering techniques, useful for practical exam preparation.
Professional Barber Kit
Includes clippers, trimmers, and shears, necessary for practicing cutting and styling techniques.
Sanitization Supplies
Crucial for maintaining cleanliness and adhering to health regulations during both training and examinations.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- Georgia Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13