Arizona Licensing Overview for a Barber

Licensing for a barber in Arizona is controlled by the Arizona State Board of Barbers.

General Guidelines for a Barber in Arizona

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?

1,200 hours training at barber school
Apprenticeship is not currently permitted for a barber license.

What’s the state licensing site for a barber?

Arizona State Board of Barbers

What are some training programs available for a barber?

See training programs

How long is a license good for and when do I need to renew?

Renews every two years.

What are fees associated with licensing?

$80

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 the state of Arizona there are several steps that must be taken.

  1. The completion of a formal barber program
  2. Apply for registration with the Arizona Board of Barbers
  3. Undertake state licensing exams
  4. Ensure your license remains up to date

 

The completion of a formal barber program

In Arizona, there is only one method in which to gain the necessary qualifications to become a licensed barber: through a formal barbering program. When going the route of a formal barbering program, students are required to undertake a minimum of 1500 hours of registered coursework.

Arizona does not currently allow apprenticeships as a career path to become a barber.

 

Apply for registration in the state of Arizona

Following the completion of formal education, either via an institution or apprenticeship, barbers are required to apply for their Application for Barber, Hairdresser, and Esthetician License registration with the Arizona Board of Barbers. Once this application has been processed, barbers are then able to apply for the licensing examinations. In order to have this application processed, applicants are required to submit:

  • The initial application registration form
  • A copy of their year 10 school certificate
  • A copy of their barber school transcript
  • An application fee of $140, which covers the application and examinations

 

Undertake state licensing exams

In Arizona there are two licensing exams that must be completed: the theoretical exam and the practical exam. Barber examinations in Alaska are conducted by the state and are written independent of the NIC and are based upon relevant textbooks studied in registered barber courses.

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
  • State laws and regulations
  • Skin care and facial services

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. Barbers are required to attain a minimum score of 75 to be successful. From here, the Arizona Board of Barbers will issue the barber a license to practice within the state of Arizona.

 

Ensure your license remains up to date

Licensed barbers are required to update their license every two years. This can be done easily online through the board’s website. There is a fee of $80 for this renewal.

There is currently no ongoing education necessary for barbers during their licensing period in Arizona. However, many barbers may choose to undertake ongoing education to further their career opportunities and stay up to date in current fashions and trends.

Location(s):

Arizona