Washington Licensing Overview for a Barber
Licensing for a barber in Washington is controlled by the Washington State Department of Licensing-Cosmetologists.
General Guidelines for a Barber in Washington
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?
The prerequisites for entrance into the school may vary, but most require applicants to be at least 17 years of age and have a high school diploma or equivalent. The state requires completion of at least a 1,000 hour program before a license can be issued.
What’s the state licensing site for a barber?
Washington State Department of Licensing-Cosmetologists
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?
$55
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 the state of Washington there are several steps that must be taken.
- The completion of a formal barber program or apprenticeship
- Apply for licensing examinations
- Undertake state licensing exams
- Apply for licensing with the Washington State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
- Ensure your license remains up to date
The completion of a formal barber program or apprenticeship
In the state of Washington, there are two methods in which to gain the necessary qualifications to become a licensed barber: a formal barbering program or an apprenticeship. Students are required to undertake a minimum of 1000 hours of registered coursework at a barber college. This will be sufficient to practice as a barber following examinations.
To become a licensed barber through an apprenticeship, students are required to undertake a minimum of 1200 hours under the direct supervision of a fully licensed barber.
Apply for registration in the state of Washington
Following the completion of formal education via an institution, barbers are required to apply for registration with Ergometrics. Once this application has been processed, barbers are then able to apply for the state barber examinations. In order to have this application processed, applicants are required to submit:
- A completed application
- A $120 practical examination fee
- A $160 theoretical examination fee
Undertake state licensing exams
In the state of Washington, there are two licensing exams that must be completed: the theoretical exam and the practical exam. Barber examinations in Washington are written and conducted by Ergometrics
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.
Apply for licensing in the state of Washington
Once a barber has successfully completed their State examinations, they can apply for licensure to practice as a barber in the state of Washington. Barbers are required to submit:
- A completed application
- A $30 licensing fee
Ensure your license remains up to date
Licensed barbers are required to renew their license each year when notified by the Board. This can be done easily online through the Washington State Board’s online license renewal portal. There is a $55 renewal fee for this license.
There is currently no ongoing education needs for barbers during their licensing period in the state of Washington. However, many barbers may choose to undertake ongoing education to further their career opportunities and stay up to date in current fashions and trends.