How to become a barber in North Carolina
North Carolina barbers are licensed by the North Carolina Board of Barber and Electrolysis Examiners. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed barber in North Carolina, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a barber in North Carolina?
- Attended an approved barber school for at least 1,528 hours
- Completed a 12-month apprenticeship under a licensed barber
North Carolina barber license requirements
| Licensed by | North Carolina Board of Barber and Electrolysis Examiners |
|---|---|
| License name | Registered Barber (apprentice barber license comes first) |
| Education or training | 1,528 hours at an approved barber school, then a 12-month apprenticeship as a licensed apprentice under a licensed barber (G.S. 86B-23, 86B-40). |
| Exam | Apprentice exam (written and practical) after barber school, then a clinical exam for the registered barber license, conducted by the Board; scheduling and results are in the Board's exam portal. |
| License term | 1 year; barber licenses expire May 31 each year (G.S. 86B-34) |
| Reciprocity | Out-of-state barbers may be licensed without exam if they hold a valid license, practiced 1 of the last 5 years, and come from a state with substantially equivalent requirements (G.S. 86B-28). |
How much does it cost?
| Examination to become a licensed apprentice (each exam, written and practical) | $85.00 |
|---|---|
| Certificate of registration or renewal as a licensed apprentice | $50.00 |
| Examination to become a licensed barber | $85.00 |
| Certificate of registration or renewal as a licensed barber | $50.00 |
| Barber student permit | $25.00 |
| Barber or apprentice license by reciprocity | $120.00 |
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 North Carolina
- Complete 1,528 hours at an approved barber school
- Apply for and pass the apprentice exams
- Get your apprentice license and work 12 months under a licensed barber
- Submit the supervising barber's apprenticeship affidavit
- Pass the clinical exam
- Receive your registered barber license
- Renew every year by May 31
Apply on the official North Carolina site
How do you check a barber's license in North Carolina?
- Search the name or license number on the official North Carolina 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.