New Jersey Licensing Overview for a Barber
Licensing for a barber in New Jersey is controlled by the New Jersey Board of Barbering, Cosmetology & Aesthetics.
General Guidelines for a Barber in New Jersey
Specific requirements to perform barber services can generally be used as a guideline, but make sure to check with your local governing rules and regulations.
Who’s allowed to perform these services?
Anyone holding a barber license
General requirements for a barber license?
Cosmetologist & Hairstylist License – 1,200 Hours
Cosmetology & Hairstyling Instructor License – Cosmetologist-Hairstylist License + 500 Hours + 30-Hour Teaching Methods Course
What’s the state licensing site for a barber?
New Jersey Board of Barbering, Cosmetology & Aesthetics
What are some training programs available for a barber?
How long is a license good for and when do I need to renew?
Renews every 2 years.
What are fees associated with licensing?
$60
Barber Licensing
A barber is a professional who specializes in the cutting, styling, and grooming of men and boy’s hair and beards. This profession has a long-standing history filled with tradition and is an important subsection of the beauty industry. Many of the techniques and tools of barbering are as old as the profession itself. This includes the tools, techniques and overall aesthetic of the barbershop itself. Barbers are experts in their field. A barber’s job is primarily in customer satisfaction, which revolves around the customer service, friendliness, and communication of the barber.
To become a licensed barber in New Jersey there are several steps that must be taken.
- The completion of a formal barber program or apprenticeship
- Schedule and pass the State Board theory examination
- Schedule and pass State Board practical and licensing exams
- Ensure your license remains up to date
The completion of a formal barber program or apprenticeship
In New Jersey, there is only one way to gain the necessary qualifications to become a licensed barber: complete a formal barbering program. Students are required to undertake a minimum of 900 hours of registered coursework at a barber college. This will be sufficient to practice as a barber following a passing grade on examinations.
New Jersey does not currently allow apprenticeships as a career path to become a barber.
Schedule and pass the State Board theory examination
In the state of New Jersey, you must first schedule and complete the State Board’s theory examination. The exam is conducted by Prometric testing services, and there is a $45 fee for this exam.
The main concepts that will be covered in the theory exam may include (but are not limited to) the following:
- Scientific concepts
- Hair services
- Facial hair services
- Skin care and facial services
Schedule and pass State Board practical and licensing exams
Once you have successfully completed your barber hours, passed the theory exam and are over the age of 17, you can undertake the practical examination and apply for licensure in the state of New Jersey. There is a $110 fee which covers both the practical exam and license.
The main concepts that are covered in the practical examination may include (but are not limited to) the following:
- Set up and client protection
- Haircutting
- Shaving with a straight razor
- Chemical Waving
- Virgin hair lightening
- Chemical Relaxing
Barbers will be sent an official notice from the Board detailing their results from both examinations. If successful, barbers will be eligible to practice within the state of New Jersey.
Ensure your license remains up to date
Licensed barbers are required to update their license every two years, and you will be set a notification for renewal 60 prior to the due date. This can be done easily online through the Missouri State Board’s online license renewal portal. There is a $60 renewal fee for this license.
There is currently no ongoing education needs for barbers during their licensing period in the state of New Jersey. However, many barbers may choose to undertake ongoing education to further their career opportunities and stay up to date in current fashions and trends.