Georgia Licensing Overview for a Barber
Licensing for a barber in Georgia is controlled by the Georgia Board of Barbers.
General Guidelines for a Barber in Georgia
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?
Master Barber – 1,500 Hours or 3,000 Hours Apprenticeship (18+ Months)
Barber Instructor – Barber License + 750 Hours
What’s the state licensing site for a barber?
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?
Check with local governing body for updated details.
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 Georgia there are several steps that must be taken.
- The completion of a formal barber program or apprenticeship
- Undertake state licensing exams
- Apply for registration with the Georgia State Board of Barbers
- Ensure your license remains up to date
The completion of a formal barber program or apprenticeship
In Georgia 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.
To become a licensed barber through an apprenticeship, students are required to undertake a minimum of 3,000 hours of training under the direct supervision of a fully licensed barber. This fully licensed barber must a minimum of 18 months of experience. Students are required to be 16 years of age.
Undertake state licensing exams
In Georgia there are two licensing exams that must be completed: the theoretical exam and the practical exam. Barber examinations in Georgia are conducted by PSI Services LLC. There is a fee of $147 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 the state of Georgia.
Apply for registration in the state of Georgia
Following the completion of formal education via an institution, barbers are required to apply for registration with the Georgia State 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 completed application
- An application fee of $30
- A high school diploma
- A barber diploma
- Other specified documentation
Ensure your license remains up to date
Licensed barbers are required to update their license by December 31 in even numbered years. This can be done easily online Georgia State Board’s online license renewal portal. There is a renewal fee for this license.
There is currently no ongoing education needs for barbers during their licensing period in Georgia. However, many barbers may choose to undertake ongoing education to further their career opportunities and stay up to date in current fashions and trends.