Barber License in Montana
This guide details the process of becoming a licensed barber in Montana, covering the necessary 1500 hours of training, including 220 classroom hours and 1280 clinical hours. The journey from meeting prerequisites to obtaining a license can typically take about 9 to 12 months, with costs ranging from $8,000 to $15,000 depending on the chosen training program.
Photo by Iain Feeney on Unsplash
In Montana, the career of a barber holds promising opportunities, underscored by a median salary of $36,150 per year and a projected national job growth of 4.1% by 2034. The state's demand for skilled barbers is buoyed by both an aging population requiring regular grooming services and a growing interest in bespoke barbering among younger demographics. These factors combine to make barbering a stable and appealing career choice in Montana, where practitioners can capitalize on both traditional and emerging market demands.
Montana's regulatory environment for barbers is distinct, with specific licensing requirements that ensure practitioners meet statewide standards for professionalism and health safety. The state's vast rural areas present unique opportunities for barbers, as services in less densely populated regions can often command a premium due to lower competition. Additionally, major urban centers such as Billings and Missoula offer larger client bases and the potential for higher earnings, particularly if a barber can tap into niche markets or upscale services.
This guide provides a detailed roadmap for obtaining a barber license in Montana, outlining the necessary steps from education and apprenticeship to passing the state board exams. Readers will gain insight into salary ranges, with an emphasis on how location, experience, and specialization can impact earnings. The guide also covers job market trends, helping prospective barbers understand where opportunities are most likely to be found and how to position themselves effectively within the market. By demystifying the certification process and providing clear, actionable information, this guide aims to equip future barbers with the knowledge needed to succeed in this rewarding field.
Licensing Authority
Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
Montana requires specific criteria to be met for obtaining a Barber License, including educational prerequisites, training, exams, and background checks. The license must be renewed periodically with continuing education requirements.
Official Resources
Montana Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 1500 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 220 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 1280 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- CPR certification
Certification Exam
- Exam
- Montana Barbering Examination
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Varies by testing location
How to Become a Barber License in Montana
tuition $7500-$14500, exam fee $100, background check $45, application fee $80, textbooks/supplies $200-$300, scrubs $75
Fastest Path
9 months
Typical Timeline
12 months
Estimated Cost
$8000–$15000
Verify You Meet Montana's Prerequisites
Before beginning your journey to become a licensed barber in Montana, ensure you meet the state's prerequisites. You'll need to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Visit the Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists website to download the initial application form and view the list of prerequisites. Gather your high school diploma or GED certificate, and a government-issued photo ID as you will need these documents to apply for a training program.
Tip
Keep digital copies of your documents as you might need to upload them during applications.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Schedule and complete a background check through the Montana Department of Justice. You'll need to submit fingerprints, which can be done at any authorized LiveScan location. The process usually takes about 2-4 weeks for results. Additionally, ensure you are in good health by obtaining a TB test from a local clinic, with results typically ready within 48 hours. Both the background check and health screenings are mandatory for admission into state-approved training programs.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved barber training program in Montana. Visit the Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists website to access a list of approved programs. These programs meet the state requirements of 1500 training hours, including 220 classroom hours and 1280 clinical hours. Attending a non-approved program will result in ineligibility to sit for the state licensing exam, thus wasting time and resources.
Tip
Contact multiple schools to compare costs and schedules that fit your needs.
Enroll in and Complete Training
After choosing an approved program, enroll and complete the required 1500 hours of training, which includes 220 hours of classroom instruction and 1280 hours of clinical practice. This training will cover various aspects of barbering, from basic hair cutting techniques to more advanced styling and facial hair grooming. Ensure to maintain good attendance and performance records as these are necessary for graduation and eligibility for the state exam.
Tip
Keep a log of your hours in case of discrepancies with the school's records.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Begin preparing for the Montana Barbering Exam administered by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC). Study materials can be found on the NIC's website, including an outline of the exam content which covers both written and practical components. The written exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, and the practical exam involves demonstrating barbering skills. Both sections must be passed to qualify for licensure.
Tip
Regularly take practice exams available on the NIC website to gauge your readiness.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Once you are prepared, register for the Montana Barbering Exam through the NIC's designated testing provider, PSI Exams. You will need to create an account, select a test date, and pay the exam fee. Testing locations are available across Montana, and you can choose the most convenient site. Ensure to register at least one month in advance to secure your preferred testing date.
Tip
Check for available dates in multiple locations to find the earliest possible exam appointment.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the exam day, arrive at the testing center early with two forms of ID and your exam confirmation number. The written test allows 90 minutes to complete 100 questions, while the practical exam will require you to perform several tasks within a set timeframe. If you fail any part of the exam, you can reschedule after 24 hours and will need to pay a retest fee. Passing both parts is mandatory to proceed with licensure.
Tip
Review all exam instructions provided by PSI to avoid any procedural errors on test day.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the exam, apply for your barber license through the Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. You'll need to submit an application form, proof of passing the exam, and pay the licensing fee. Processing typically takes 2-4 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
Ensure all sections of the application are filled out correctly to avoid delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your barber license in the mail. Verify your name and license details on the Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists online registry. This step is crucial as it confirms your status as a licensed professional, allowing you to legally work in Montana. Keep your license document safe, and ensure you understand the requirements for license renewal in the future.
Tip
Regularly check the mail for your license and immediately verify information online.
Find Your First Job
With your license in hand, you can now seek employment as a barber in Montana. Utilize job search platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and specialized beauty industry job sites to find openings in salons and barbershops. Networking with other professionals during your training can also lead to job opportunities. Prepare a professional resume highlighting your training, license, and any practical experience you gained during your clinical hours.
Tip
Attend industry networking events and stay connected with your training cohort for potential job leads.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Montana Board of Nursing 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
Montana Barber Licensing Examination administered by National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC)
Written Test
Questions: 100
Time Limit: 90 minutes
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: 75%
- • Scientific Concepts (30%)
- • Hair Care and Services (40%)
- • Skin Care Services (15%)
- • Nail Care Services (15%)
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 5
Time Per Skill: 30 minutes per skill
Candidates perform tasks on mannequins or live models under examiner supervision.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID
- ✓ Admission notice
- ✓ Own supply kit for practical exam
- ✓ Mannequin or live model if required
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items like bags or books
- ✗ Electronic devices such as cell phones or smartwatches
- ✗ Notes or cheat sheets
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 approximately 2.5 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are issued at the test center immediately after exam completion. Official results are mailed within two weeks.
If You Don't Pass
Candidates can retake the exam after 30 days. The cost for a retake is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit on the number of retakes allowed in Montana.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Read each question carefully, especially the wording and multiple-choice options.
- 2. Practice time management, aiming to complete the written test within allocated time, leaving few minutes for review.
- 3. During the skills test, adhere strictly to safety and sanitation protocols as these are heavily weighted.
- 4. Familiarize yourself with the kit and tools required for the practical exam to ensure smooth execution of tasks.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From previously attended high school or GED testing service · Varies · Varies
Required for proof of basic education
Government-Issued Photo ID
Department of Motor Vehicles or other government agency · Varies by type of ID · Typically 2-4 weeks
Needed for identification during exams and applications
Proof of Age
Birth certificate or passport · Varies · Varies
Applicant must be at least 18 years old
TB Test Results
Local clinic or healthcare provider · Approximately $20-$50 · 1-3 days
Ensures the applicant does not have tuberculosis
CPR Certification
American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or similar · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies based on course availability
Certification must be current during training and exams
2During Training
Enrollment Agreement
Barber school or training program · No direct cost · Immediate upon signing
Legal agreement between student and institution
Proof of Enrollment
Barber school or training program · No direct cost · Immediate upon enrollment
Required for various certification steps
Attendance Record
Barber school or training program · No direct cost · Ongoing throughout training
Must verify completion of required 1,500 hours of training
Training Progress Reports
Barber school or training program · No direct cost · Periodically through training
Assesses skill development and readiness for examination
3For the Exam
Examination Application
Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists · Approximately $80
Must be filed to schedule the practical and written exams
Exam Fee Payment Proof
Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists · Included in examination application
Confirmation of payment is often required on exam day
Scheduled Exam Confirmation
Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists · No additional cost
Confirmation notice typically sent via email or mail
4For Certification
Passing Exam Scores
Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists · No additional cost
Proof required to proceed with certification
Certification Application
Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists · Approximately $80
Final step to obtain the official Barber License
Certification Fee Payment Proof
Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists · Included in certification application
Ensures all fees are accounted for before issuance of license
Background Check Consent Form
Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists · Approximately $27
Required for final licensure to ensure public safety
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your name on the Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists registry. Collect your physical barber license from the board or wait for it to arrive by mail.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed.com, Craigslist, local newspapers, and the Montana Jobs Network. Networking with local barbers and visiting barber shops can also yield job opportunities.
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Barber shops, hair salons, and spas. Expect varying client volumes; independent shops might offer more flexible schedules while franchises could provide more stability but with strict corporate guidelines.
Resume Tip: Highlight your barber license, any apprenticeships, customer service skills, and specific techniques or styles you are proficient in. Mention soft skills like communication and reliability.
Interview Tip: Describe your training experience.Explain why you chose barbering as a career.Discuss how you handle customer service scenarios.Provide examples of how you keep up with industry trends.
Expected First-Year Salary
Typically, a new barber in Montana can expect to earn between $20,000 and $30,000 in the first year, depending on location, type of employer, and job hours.
Career Advancement Path
Master Barber
Requires additional hours of work experience and passing a higher-level examination.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Building a stable client base can be slow initially. Managing client expectations and maintaining consistent service quality are key challenges. Handling administrative tasks alongside barbering duties requires effective time management.
Barber License Salary in Montana
In Montana, barber salaries align with the national median at $36,150 per year, or $17.38 per hour. This suggests a balanced earning potential for barbers in the state compared to the national scale.
Entry Level
$26,770
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$36,150
$17.38/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$61,090
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$36,150 national · ++0.0% in Montana
Salary by Metro Area
Specific data for Billings is currently unavailable.
Specific data for Missoula is currently unavailable.
Salary by Employer Type
Montana's cost of living is generally lower than the national average, which may make the median barber salary more comfortable in comparison.
Benefits & Compensation
Benefits typically include health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans, depending on employer.
Salary Growth Outlook
Barber salaries in Montana are expected to grow in alignment with national trends, influenced by factors such as experience and location.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries in your specific Montana area to inform discussions.
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications that enhance your value.
Job Market in Montana
In Montana, the barber license job market shows unique characteristics when compared to national trends. With a national employment growth rate projected at 4.1% from 2024 to 2034, Montana's growth rate is slightly below this figure due to a smaller population and less urban development. Demand in Montana is primarily driven by an aging population requiring more grooming services and a steady interest in personal care among younger demographics.
Top Hiring Areas
Largest urban market in Montana.
Home to a younger demographic with a vibrant university presence.
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late summer, aligning with seasonal population increases
Opportunities
- Expansion of services to include cosmetic treatments
- Partnerships with local businesses for pop-up events
Challenges
- Limited customer base in rural areas
- Competition from unlicensed service providers
Training Programs in Montana
Montana offers several paths for acquiring a barber license, including community college programs, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored training. Each provides unique benefits and challenges.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 9 to 12 months | $5,000 to $10,000 | In-person |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 6 to 12 months | $7,000 to $12,000 | In-person |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies, often 6 to 9 months | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Great Falls, Montana
Combines traditional barbering with contemporary hair design
How to Choose a Program
- •Check program accreditation and state approval to ensure eligibility for licensure exams.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Barber License program info for Montana
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$80
CE Hours
8 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Sanitation, Safety
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Montana allows reciprocity for barbers licensed in other states if the licensing requirements are similar or higher than Montana's. Applicants must provide proof of licensure and may need to pass the Montana Barbering Examination.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Proof of current license in good standing
- Evidence of equivalent training and testing standards
State Agreements
States with similar or higher licensing standards
Additional Exams
Possible, depending on state
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement along with required documents and fees
Fees
$175
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents and fees are submitted together to avoid delays
Review Montana's specific sanitation and safety regulations to prepare for the state exam
Recommended Resources
Milady Standard Barbering Exam Review
Provides practice questions and answers that mirror the format of the Montana Barbering exam.
Barber Exam Secrets Study Guide
Offers detailed practice questions and explanations, helping students understand the rationale behind each answer.
Milady's Standard Professional Barbering
Covers all topics required for the Montana barber license, including hair cutting, styling, and state laws.
Barbering Basics: Tools, Techniques, and Tips
Focuses on practical skills and techniques needed for successful barbers, useful for both exams and real-world applications.
Professional Barber Kit
Includes scissors, razors, and clippers, essential for hands-on practice and exams.
Adjustable Barber Chair
Necessary for practicing various haircuts and styles in a controlled environment, mimicking real salon conditions.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- Montana Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13