Barber License in North Carolina
This guide outlines the steps to become a licensed barber in North Carolina. It covers the process from meeting prerequisites to obtaining the license, with a total duration of 12 to 18 months and a cost range of $5,000 to $10,000. Key steps include verifying prerequisites, completing training, passing the state exam, and applying for the license.
Photo by Iain Feeney on Unsplash
In North Carolina, the career of a barber presents significant opportunities due to growing demand and favorable economic conditions. The median salary for barbers in the state stands at $47,290 per year, offering a viable financial pathway. With a national workforce of 76,000 in this role, projections indicate a growth of 4.1% by 2034, signaling stable job security and expansion in the barbering industry. The blend of increasing consumer spending on grooming services and the state's demographic growth underpins this positive outlook, making it a prudent career choice for many.
North Carolina's regulatory environment for barbers is structured to maintain high standards in the profession, ensuring that practitioners are well-trained and consumers receive quality services. The state mandates specific licensing requirements that include both education and examination components. North Carolina is home to numerous barber schools and academies, providing ample educational resources for aspiring barbers. Additionally, the state's diverse population and growing metropolitan areas such as Charlotte and Raleigh enhance the need for varied grooming services, catering to a broad client base.
This guide offers a detailed exploration into becoming a licensed barber in North Carolina. Readers will learn about the necessary steps to obtain a barber license, including educational requirements, the licensing process, and important examinations. The guide also sheds light on salary ranges and variations within different regions of the state, helping potential barbers understand what to expect financially. Furthermore, insights into the local job market will equip readers with the knowledge to strategically position themselves within the industry, maximizing their potential for success.
Licensing Authority
NC Board of Barber and Electrolysis Examiners
In North Carolina, individuals seeking to become licensed barbers must meet specific requirements set by the state's regulatory board. This includes completing a mandated number of training hours, passing a state exam, and undergoing a background check.
Official Resources
North Carolina Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 1528 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 228 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 1300 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Proof of training program completion
Certification Exam
- Exam
- North Carolina Barber State Board Examination
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- $95
How to Become a Barber License in North Carolina
tuition $4500-$9000, exam fee $110, background check $50, application fee $20, textbooks/supplies $300, scrubs $20
Fastest Path
12 months
Typical Timeline
15 months
Estimated Cost
$5000–$10000
Verify You Meet North Carolina's Prerequisites
Before beginning your journey to become a licensed barber in North Carolina, ensure you meet all prerequisites. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be eligible to work in the U.S. Visit the North Carolina Board of Barber Examiners website to download the checklist of prerequisites and verify your eligibility. This step is crucial as you cannot proceed without meeting these conditions.
Tip
Keep digital copies of all documents as you will need them for future steps.
Complete a Background Check and Health Screenings
North Carolina requires a comprehensive background check including an FBI fingerprint and state police check. Schedule your fingerprinting appointment via the IdentGo website and complete it at a local service center. You will also need to pass health screenings, including a TB test and a drug screen, which can be done at any certified clinic. Results typically take 2-3 weeks to process. Ensure all documents are properly submitted to avoid delays.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid waiting times.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved barber training program by visiting the North Carolina Board of Barber Examiners' website. These programs meet specific educational standards necessary for licensure. Attending a non-approved program will result in ineligibility to sit for the state exam, wasting both time and money. Programs vary by cost, location, and schedule, so choose one that fits your needs. Verify the program's approval status directly on the state board's website.
Tip
Consider program locations and schedules that best fit your lifestyle and budget.
Enroll in and Complete Barber Training
After selecting an approved program, enroll and complete the required 1528 hours of training, consisting of 228 classroom hours and 1300 clinical hours. This training is essential to gaining the skills and knowledge necessary for a barbering career and to qualify for the state licensing exam. Keep track of your hours and ensure they are properly documented and reported to the state board by your training institution.
Tip
Maintain a personal log of your training hours in case of discrepancies.
Prepare for the North Carolina Barbering Exam
Start preparing for the North Carolina Barbering Exam by reviewing the study materials provided by your training program and additional resources found on the PSI Exams Online website. The exam consists of both written and practical components. Familiarize yourself with the format, types of questions, and the skills you need to demonstrate. Practice exams are available for a fee and can be a valuable tool to assess your readiness.
Tip
Regularly take practice exams to track your progress and identify areas needing improvement.
Register for and Schedule the Barbering Exam
Once you are prepared, register for the North Carolina Barbering Exam through PSI Exams Online. You will need to pay the exam fee and choose a date and location that are convenient for you. The exam is offered at multiple locations throughout the state. Ensure you have all required identification and admission documents on the day of the exam. Registration should be done at least one month in advance to secure your preferred date.
Tip
Choose an exam date that gives you ample time for last-minute review and travel.
Take and Pass the Barbering Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive early at the testing center with all necessary identification and materials. The North Carolina Barbering Exam includes both theoretical and practical components, testing your knowledge and skills in barbering. The passing score is set by the state board. If you fail, you can reschedule after a waiting period, as specified by PSI. Results are typically available within a few days.
Tip
Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow for check-in procedures.
Apply for State Certification and Registry
After passing the exam, apply for your barber license through the North Carolina Board of Barber Examiners. Complete the application form, attach proof of passing the exam, and pay the application 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 registry, which can be verified online.
Tip
Double-check your application for accuracy to avoid processing delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your barber license by mail. Verify your license status on the North Carolina Board of Barber Examiners' online registry. This official listing is important for potential employers to confirm your credentials. Keep your license document safe, and consider making digital copies for backup.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the online registry for updates on your license status.
Find Your First Job as a Licensed Barber
With your license in hand, you can now seek employment as a licensed barber. Utilize job search platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn to find job openings in barber shops and salons across North Carolina. Networking with fellow barbers and attending industry events can also lead to job opportunities. Prepare a professional resume highlighting your training and licensure.
Tip
Attend local barbering events to network and learn about job openings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the North Carolina Board of Barber Examiners 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
North Carolina Barber License Examination administered by Professional Credential Services (PCS)
Written Test
Questions: 110
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 mannequins or live models under examiner supervision.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID
- ✓ Admission letter from PCS
- ✓ Own supply kit for practical examination
- ✓ Mannequin head and stand for skills test
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items such as bags or books
- ✗ Electronic devices including cell phones and smart watches
- ✗ Food or drink in the examination area
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 1.5 hours. Break. Skills test totals approximately 2.5 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are issued via mail within 4-6 weeks after the exam. Candidates can also check results online through the PCS portal.
If You Don't Pass
Candidates may retake the exam after 30 days. The retake fee is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit on the number of attempts allowed in North Carolina.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Read each question carefully to understand what is being asked, especially in the practical skills section.
- 2. Manage time effectively, allotting roughly 45 seconds per question in the written test.
- 3. During the skills test, demonstrate cleanliness and organization, as these are key evaluation criteria.
- 4. Review the Candidate Information Bulletin provided by PCS for specific procedures and prohibited actions during the exam.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From previous educational institutions or relevant state education department · Varies (typically no cost for the original, but a fee for duplicates) · 2-4 weeks
Required to prove completion of basic education
Government Issued Photo ID
Department of Motor Vehicles or relevant government agency · Varies by type of ID and state · 2-4 weeks
Needed for identity verification at all stages of certification
TB Test Results
Local clinics or hospitals · Approximately $20-$50 · 1-3 days
Some training schools require a recent TB test for enrollment
CPR Certification
American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or other certified providers · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies (one-day training available)
May be required by some schools; check specific school requirements
Enrollment Application for Barber School
Specific barber school's website or admissions office · No cost for the form; application fees vary · Immediate to a few days
Required to apply for barber training programs
2During Training
Proof of Enrollment
Barber school's administrative office · No cost · Immediate upon enrollment
Needed for various administrative purposes and benefits
Student Barber Permit
North Carolina Board of Barber Examiners · Approximately $25 · 2-4 weeks after application
Mandatory for all students to legally practice while learning
Hourly Log Sheet
Provided by barber school · No cost · Provided upon start of training
Used to track required training hours; must be submitted for exam eligibility
3For the Exam
Exam Application Form
North Carolina Board of Barber Examiners website · No cost for the form; exam fee is approximately $85
Submission of this form is required to schedule the licensing exam
Proof of Training Hours
Barber school's administrative office · No cost
Official document confirming completion of required training hours
Exam Fee Payment Receipt
Payment made during exam application process · Cost included in exam application
Proof of payment is often required on the day of the exam
4For Certification
Passing Exam Score Report
Issued by the North Carolina Board of Barber Examiners post-exam · No additional cost
Required to apply for the actual barber license
Barber License Application Form
North Carolina Board of Barber Examiners website · No cost for the form; licensing fee is approximately $50
Must be submitted with the passing score report to obtain license
License Fee Payment Receipt
Payment made during license application process · Cost included in license application
Proof of payment may be required for license issuance
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your license status on the North Carolina Board of Barber Examiners website. Collect your official Barber License certificate from the board or wait for it to arrive by mail.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed.com, Glassdoor, and local North Carolina job boards like NCWorks.gov. Networking with local barbershops and attending industry meetups can also be beneficial.
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Local barbershops, national salon chains, and luxury hotels or resorts. Independent shops may offer more creative freedom, while chains might provide more stable income and structured training programs.
Resume Tip: Highlight any relevant experience, even if informal or voluntary. Include soft skills like communication and customer service, and emphasize your new licensing status and any additional barbering courses completed.
Interview Tip: Describe your training experience.Discuss how you handle customer service scenarios.Explain your technique and any specialties.Share how you stay updated with industry trends.
Expected First-Year Salary
Typically ranges from $25,000 to $35,000, depending on location, type of employer, and work hours.
Career Advancement Path
Master Barber
Requires additional hours of work experience and passing a Master Barber exam.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Building a steady client base can take time. Maintain high-quality service and use social media for marketing. Managing business aspects like scheduling and finances can be challenging; consider using digital tools or courses to improve these skills.
Barber License Salary in North Carolina
Barber salaries in North Carolina exceed the national median significantly, reflecting the state's demand for skilled professionals in this field. The state median salary of $47,290 per year is notably higher than the national median.
Entry Level
$30,000
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$47,290
$22.74/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$55,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$36,150 national · ++30.8% in North Carolina
Salary by Metro Area
Highest in the state.
Competitive with national trends.
Slightly below state median.
Salary by Employer Type
While barber salaries in North Carolina are higher than the national average, they align well with the state's moderate cost of living, providing a balanced economic opportunity for professionals.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits include health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans, though specifics may vary by employer and employment status.
Salary Growth Outlook
Steady growth expected, driven by increasing demand for personal grooming services and population growth in urban areas.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries in your specific metro area
- •Consider your experience level and any specialized skills
Job Market in North Carolina
In North Carolina, the barber license job market is growing steadily, closely aligning with the national growth rate of 4.1% from 2024 to 2034. Factors such as an increasing population and a rising interest in personal grooming and wellness contribute to this demand. Urban areas, particularly around Charlotte and Raleigh, are experiencing heightened activity in this sector.
Top Hiring Areas
The city's large population and thriving economy boost demand.
Presence of young professionals and students supports steady demand.
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late autumn
Opportunities
- Expansion into niche markets such as organic and natural grooming
- Collaborations with lifestyle and wellness brands
Challenges
- Competition from non-traditional grooming services
- Evolving consumer preferences towards grooming products
Training Programs in North Carolina
North Carolina offers a variety of barber training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored arrangements, providing multiple pathways to obtaining a barber license.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 1-2 years | $1,500 - $10,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 9-15 months | $5,000 - $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Sanford, North Carolina
Offers an extensive curriculum with state-of-the-art facilities
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
One of the oldest barber schools in the area with a strong reputation
Online & Hybrid Options
Some schools offer hybrid programs combining online theory classes with in-person practical training.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation status and state approval for licensure eligibility.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Barber License program info for North Carolina
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every year
Renewal Fee
$50
CE Hours
None
Work requirement: None specified
Out-of-State Reciprocity
North Carolina offers reciprocity for barbers licensed in other states, provided they meet specific criteria including equivalent training hours and passing the North Carolina state board examination.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Proof of current valid license in another state
- Completion of equivalent training hours as required in North Carolina
State Agreements
States with similar or higher training requirements
Additional Exams
Required
Application Process
Submit an application along with proof of licensure and training, pass the North Carolina state board examination
Fees
$150
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents and fees are submitted together to avoid delays
Review study materials for the state exam thoroughly to ensure a passing score
Recommended Resources
Milady's Standard Professional Barbering Exam Review
This test preparation book offers a thorough review of the theoretical and practical aspects of barbering, tailored to North Carolina's requirements.
Barber Exam Practice by Total Testing
Online resource that provides access to numerous practice questions and tests, simulating the actual barber exam in North Carolina.
The Barber's Manual: Study Guide for the State Board
A comprehensive guide that covers key topics and techniques essential for the North Carolina barber licensing exam.
North Carolina Barbering Technology: A Path to Mastery
Focuses on state-specific regulations and practices, providing in-depth knowledge required for aspiring barbers in North Carolina.
Wahl Professional 5-Star Magic Clip
A versatile hair clipper essential for precise and efficient haircutting during training and examinations.
Diane Premium Barber Scissors
High-quality scissors are necessary for training to master different cutting techniques and for use in practical exams.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- North Carolina Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13