Idaho Licensing Overview for a Barber

Licensing for a barber in Idaho is controlled by the Idaho Board of Cosmetology – Bureau of Occupational Licenses.

General Guidelines for a Barber in Idaho

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?

Barber Stylist License – 1,800 Hours
Barber License – 900 Hours

What’s the state licensing site for a barber?

Idaho Board of Cosmetology – Bureau of Occupational Licenses

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?

Every year

What are fees associated with licensing?

$20

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 in conjunction with the execution of a sharp and precise hair cut that barbers are famous for.

To become a barber, there is a set lot of requirements that is individual to each state across America. The following pages look at the detailed information on individual state licensing to help give you the best advice as you move forward in your career path.

To become a licensed barber in the state of Idaho 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 Idaho Board of Barber Examiners
  4. Ensure your license remains up to date

The completion of a formal barber program or apprenticeship

In the state of Idaho, there are two methods in which to gain the necessary qualifications to become a licensed barber, both of which are through a formal barbering program. The first option is for students to undertake a minimum of 900 hours of registered coursework at a barber college. This will be sufficient to practice as a barber following examinations.

The second option is for students to become a barber-stylist. This will require 1800 hours of coursework at a barber college. 

 

Undertake state licensing exams

In the state of Idaho, there are two licensing exams that must be completed: the theoretical exam and the practical exam. Barber examinations in Idaho are conducted by DL Roope Administrations. 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 the state of Idaho.

 

Apply for registration in the state of Idaho

Following the completion of formal education via an institution, barbers are required to apply for registration with the Idaho Board of Barber Examiners. 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 $25
  • A high school diploma (of year 10 or higher)
  • A barber diploma
  • A copy of a drivers license or birth certificate

 

Ensure your license remains up to date

Licensed barbers are required to update their license each year. The board will send a renewal notice 6 weeks prior to the allocated renewal date. This can be done easily online through the Idaho State Board’s online license renewal portal. There is a renewal fee for this license.

There is currently no ongoing education requirement for barbers during their licensing period in the state of Idaho. 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):

Idaho