New York Licensing Overview for a Barber
Licensing for a barber in New York is controlled by the New York Dept. of State Division of Licensing Services – Barbering.
General Guidelines for a Barber in New York
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 License – 2-Year Apprenticeship
What’s the state licensing site for a barber?
New York Dept. of State Division of Licensing Services – Barbering
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 4 years.
What are fees associated with licensing?
$40
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 New York there are several steps that must be taken.
- The completion of a formal barber program or apprenticeship
- Apply for licensing with the New York State Division of Licensing Services
- Undertake state licensing exams
- Ensure your license remains up to date
The completion of a formal barber program or apprenticeship
In the state of New York, there is no minimum requirement of hours to complete for licensure. While students are able to determine their own hours of study, most registered barber schools offer a 288-hour training program.
The state of New York does not currently allow apprenticeships as a career path to become a barber.
Apply for registration in the state of New York
Following the completion of formal education via an institution, barbers are required to apply for registration with the New York State Division of Licensing Services. 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
- Educational diplomas
- An application fee of $40
- A health certification form
Undertake state licensing exams
In the state of New York, there is only one licensing exams that must be completed: the practical exam. Barber examinations in New York are conducted by the State Board. There will be a $15 fee for these examinations.
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 for licensure to practice within the state of New York.
Ensure your license remains up to date
Licensed barbers are required to update their license every four years. This can be done easily online through the Missouri State Board’s online license renewal portal. There is a $60 renewal fee for this license.
There is currently no ongoing education needs for barbers during their licensing period in the state of New York. However, many barbers may choose to undertake ongoing education to further their career opportunities and stay up to date in current fashions and trends.