Maine Licensing Overview for a Barber
Licensing for a barber in Maine is controlled by the Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation – Barbering & Cosmetology Program.
General Guidelines for a Barber in Maine
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 – 1,500 Hours or 2,500 Hours Apprenticeship
Limited Barber – 800 Hours or 1,600 Hours Apprenticeship
Barber Instructor – Barber License + 1,000 Hours Barber Instructor Education + 12 Education Credits from Post-Secondary School
What’s the state licensing site for a barber?
Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation – Barbering & Cosmetology Program
What are some training programs available for a barber?
How long is a license good for and when do I need to renew?
Renews annually
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.
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 Maine1 there are several steps that must be taken.
- The completion of a formal barber program or apprenticeship
- Apply for registration with the Maine Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
- Undertake state licensing exams
- Ensure your license remains up to date
The completion of a formal barber program or apprenticeship
In the state of Maine, there are two methods in which to gain the necessary qualifications to become a licensed barber: through a formal barbering program or through a barbering apprenticeship. When going the route of a formal barbering program, students are required to undertake a minimum of 1,500 hours of registered coursework.
To become a licensed barber through an apprenticeship, students are required to undertake a minimum of 2000 hours of training under the direct supervision of a fully licensed barber.
Undertake state licensing exams
In the state of Maine, there are two licensing exams that must be completed: the theoretical exam and the practical exam. Barber examinations in Maine are conducted by D.L. Roope Practical and Written Licensing 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 licensing registration in the state of Maine.
Apply for registration in the state of Maine
Following the completion of formal education, either via an institution or apprenticeship, barbers are required to apply for registration with Maine Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Barbers are required to be at least 17 years of age and have completed grade 10 of high school. 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 current driver’s license
- A copy of their Social Security card
- A passport photograph
- An application fee of $20
- A criminal check fee of $21
Ensure your license remains up to date
Licensed barbers are required to update their license on October 31st each year. There is a fee of $20 for this renewal. This can be done easily online through Maine’s State Board website.
There is currently no ongoing education needs for barbers during their licensing period in the state of Maine. However, many barbers may choose to undertake ongoing education to further their career opportunities and stay up to date in current fashions and trends.