How Long Does It Take To Become a Barber

Research barber schools

If you want to become a barber, it’s wise to learn from the best and some barber schools are better than others. As you research barber programs, find out if the instructors are master barbers who run their own barbershops. Experienced instructors like these can offer mentoring in technical skills and client interaction throughout your education and your barber career. Your barber school should also maintain a strong career focus, cultivating critical relationships with area barbershops and salons. Note: Be sure to review your state’s rules and regulations for professional practice before you choose a barber program.

Enroll in a barber school program

Once you pick a barber school, you can expect to complete the program in about nine months of full-time training. Barber programs typically culminate in a diploma, certificate, or associate degree. Your barber program should include core courses in scientific concepts, facial and shaving services, hair care services, and chemical services. Your barber school should also help you hone the interpersonal skills you’ll need to build solid relationships with clients when you become a barber. And if you plan to own or manage your own shop, you’ll want to take business courses that will help you when it comes to advertising, bookkeeping, sales, and management.

Get your barber license

 In most states, you will need to graduate from a state-licensed barber school in order to become a barber. A formal barber program will prepare you for the written and practical board exams you must pass to get a barber license from your state. Barber licensing exams cover the latest skills and techniques utilizing clipper blades as well as traditional technical skills with clipper guards. If you want to impress the exam administrators, make sure you’ve mastered more than a buzz cut. Be prepared to show off your skills in tapering, side and back fading, razor cutting, and more.

Becoming a Barber and finding a job

The best place to find a barber job is at a barbershop or beauty salon, of course. But what you might not realize is that barber jobs are also available at resort and day spas, nail salons, and nursing and other residential care homes. With a few years of experience and a strong client base, you may even get the opportunity to lease your own chair space in a barbershop, manage a shop, or open your own barbershop. Nearly every town has a barbershop or beauty salon, but barber jobs are usually concentrated in the most populous cities and states.

Are you cut out for a barber career? Find out at a licensed barber school today.