How to become a barber in Maryland
Maryland barbers are licensed by the Maryland State Board of Barbers (Maryland Department of Labor). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed barber in Maryland, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a barber in Maryland?
- Meet the statutory minimum age and education criteria (not specified on the Board's page)
Maryland barber license requirements
| Licensed by | Maryland State Board of Barbers (Maryland Department of Labor) |
|---|---|
| License name | Barber |
| Education or training | At least 1,200 hours at an approved barber school, or 2,250 hours as a registered apprentice within 2 years in a licensed barbershop under a master barber; licensed Maryland cosmetologists receive credit for half the training hours. |
| Exam | Theory and practical examinations administered by PSI; both must be passed within two years of each other. |
| License term | Two years from the date of issuance. |
| Continuing education | No continuing education is required to renew a barber license; a 1-hour domestic violence awareness course is required for original licensure. |
| Reciprocity | Licensure by endorsement for holders of an active license from a state with comparable requirements plus 6 months' work experience; applicants from listed states (e.g. CA, CT, FL, NY) must take Maryland's exams ($56 application fee). |
How much does it cost?
| Barber exam: practical and theory | $77 |
|---|---|
| Barber exam: practical only | $47 |
| Barber exam: theory only | $47 |
| Reinstatement fee (expired license) | $56 |
| Licensure by endorsement application | $56 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a barber in Maryland
- Complete 1,200 barber school hours or a 2,250-hour registered apprenticeship
- Complete the 1-hour domestic violence awareness training from a Department-approved provider
- Apply through PSI's online application and pass the theory and practical exams
- Apply online for an original barber license
- Affiliate with a licensed salon or barbershop to perform services
- Renew every two years, completing required training
Apply on the official Maryland site
How do you check a barber's license in Maryland?
- Search the name or license number on the official Maryland barber license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.