Connecticut Licensing Overview for a Barber

Licensing for a barber in Connecticut is controlled by the Connecticut Dept. of Public Health – Cosmetology & Licensing.

General Guidelines for a Barber in Connecticut

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?

  • 1,000 training hours at a barber school.
  • Apprenticeship is not currently permitted for a barber license.
  • You must complete a barber only examination in either English or Spanish.

What’s the state licensing site for a barber?

Connecticut Dept. of Public Health – Cosmetology & Licensing

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 2 years.

What are fees associated with licensing?

$100

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 Connecticut there are several steps that must be taken.

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

 

The completion of a formal barber program or apprenticeship

In Connecticut, 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 1,500 hours of registered coursework.

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

 

Undertake state licensing exams

In Connecticut there are two licensing exams that must be completed: the theoretical exam and the practical exam. Barber examinations in Connecticut have been contracted with Prometric to conduct its examination program. There will be a fee for these examinations.

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

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 apply for licensure to practice within Connecticut.

 

Apply for registration in the state of Connecticut

Following the completion of formal education via an institution, barbers are required to apply for registration with the Connecticut State Board for Barbers and Hairdressers. 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 Licensure by Examination Application
  • An application fee of $100
  • Any other specified documentation

 

Ensure your license remains up to date

Licensed barbers are required to update their license biennially. This can be done easily online Connecticut State Board’s online license renewal portal. There is a $100 renewal fee.

There is currently no ongoing education requirement for barbers during their licensing period in Connecticut. 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):

Connecticut