California licenses barbers through the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC), part of the Department of Consumer Affairs. You need a California barber license to legally cut, style, shave, or chemically treat hair for compensation anywhere in the state. Barbers specialize in men’s grooming services, including straight razor shaving, which cosmetologists cannot perform.
California requires 1,000 hours of training at an approved barber school (or 1,500 hours through an apprenticeship) and passing a written examination. There is no practical exam. The total cost for examination and initial license is $125. Most people complete the process in 6 to 10 months through a school program. Here is exactly how to do it.
California Barber License Requirements at a Glance
| Official License Title | Barber |
| Governing Agency | California Department of Consumer Affairs |
| Governing Board | Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC) |
| Minimum Age | 17 years old |
| Education Prerequisite | 10th grade completion or equivalent |
| Training Hours Required | 1,000 hours (school) or 1,500 hours (apprenticeship) |
| State Board Exam | Written only (85 scored questions, 120 minutes) – no practical exam |
| Passing Score | 75% |
| Application and Exam Fee | $75 (examination fee) |
| Initial License Fee | $50 |
| Total Initial Cost | $125 (plus school tuition) |
| License Term | 2 years (expires in odd-numbered years) |
| Renewal Fee | $50 |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Apply Online | BreEZe Online Services |
Step 1: Meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the California barber examination, you must be at least 17 years old and have completed the 10th grade in a public school or its equivalent (such as a GED). California does not require citizenship or state residency to obtain a license, though you will need a Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to complete the application. As of recent legislation, the BBC now accepts ITINs in lieu of SSNs for license applications.
Step 2: Complete 1,000 Hours at a BBC-Approved Barber School
You must complete 1,000 clock hours of technical instruction and practical training at a barber school approved by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. The curriculum covers:
Health and Safety (100 hours): Hazardous substances, chemical safety, safety data sheets, protection from hazardous chemicals, preventing chemical injuries, health and safety laws and regulations, and preventing communicable diseases.
Disinfection and Sanitation (100 hours): Disinfection procedures to protect the health and safety of consumers as well as the technician and proper disinfection procedures for equipment used in establishments.
Chemical Hair Services (200 hours): Coloring, straightening, waving, bleaching, hair analysis, predisposition and strand tests, safety precautions, formula mixing, and the use of dye removers.
Hairstyling Services (200 hours): Arranging, blow drying, cleansing, curling, dressing, hair analysis, shampooing, waving, pressing, and relaxing.
Hair Cutting (200 hours): Hair cutting, tapering, clipper cuts, razor cutting, and shear techniques.
Shaving and Facial Hair Services (200 hours): Preparation of the client, straight razor shaving, beard and mustache trimming and styling, and related facial massage.
As of January 1, 2022, SB 803 reduced the required training hours from 1,500 to 1,000 hours. Some schools still offer programs exceeding 1,000 hours, but schools must disclose that only 1,000 hours are required for licensure. Most full-time programs now take 6 to 8 months to complete. Part-time schedules may take 10 to 14 months. The average tuition for a barber program in California ranges from approximately $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the school and location.
Hair type and texture training: California law requires instruction in chemical hair services and hairstyling to include training on all hair types and textures, including various curl or wave patterns, hair strand thicknesses, and volumes of hair.
Alternative Pathway: Apprenticeship Program
California offers an apprenticeship pathway as an alternative to school-based training. The barber apprenticeship requires 1,500 hours of on-the-job training (OJT) in a licensed barbershop, plus related training instruction (RTI) in a classroom setting. Before beginning an apprenticeship, you must complete a 39-hour pre-apprenticeship course administered by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology at barbercosmotraining.com.
Apprentices must work a minimum of 32 hours and no more than 42.5 hours per week and must be paid at least minimum wage. You will need to register with an approved apprenticeship program sponsor and obtain an apprentice license from the BBC before beginning work. The apprentice license fee is $25. Training from a school does not transfer to the apprentice program, and vice versa.
Step 3: Apply for the Licensing Exam
Once you have completed your 1,000 hours (or 1,500 apprenticeship hours), you can apply for the state board examination. Your school will provide a Proof of Training (POT) document confirming your completion. You can apply online through BreEZe, the BBC’s online licensing system, or by mail using the Barber Examination Application.
The total fee is $125, which includes both the examination fee ($75) and initial license fee ($50). This fee is non-refundable. Online applications are processed faster than mailed applications. Typical processing time is 6 to 12 weeks. Once your application is approved, you will receive a PSI handbook with instructions for scheduling your examination.
Step 4: Pass the State Board Examination
The California barber examination is a written-only test administered by PSI Services at testing centers throughout California and nationwide. California eliminated the practical (hands-on) examination as of January 1, 2022 under SB 803.
Written Exam Details
| Number of Questions | 85 scored questions + 10 pretest questions (95 total) |
| Time Limit | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
| Passing Score | 75% (approximately 64 out of 85 scored questions) |
| Format | Computer-based, multiple choice |
| Languages Available | English, Spanish, Korean, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese |
Exam Content Areas
The California barber exam covers the following subject areas:
Health and Safety: Sanitation, disinfection, infection control, California health and safety regulations, and preventing the spread of communicable diseases.
California Laws and Regulations: The Barbering and Cosmetology Act, BBC rules and regulations, scope of practice, and establishment requirements.
Hair Cutting and Styling: Cutting techniques, tapering, clipper work, styling, blow drying, and thermal styling.
Shaving and Facial Hair Services: Straight razor shaving, beard and mustache trimming and design, facial massage, and related procedures.
Chemical Services: Hair coloring, bleaching, permanent waving, chemical straightening (relaxing), and safety precautions for chemical applications.
Scalp and Hair Analysis: Hair and scalp conditions, hair structure, and analysis techniques.
Anatomy and Physiology: Basic anatomy and physiology related to hair, skin, and scalp.
Scheduling Your Exam
After your application is approved by the BBC, PSI will send you a Candidate Information Bulletin with instructions for scheduling. Schedule online at psiexams.com or call PSI at (800) 211-2754. Exams are available Monday through Saturday at PSI testing centers throughout California, including locations in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, and Fairfield. You may also take the exam at PSI testing centers in other states if more convenient.
If You Fail the Exam
If you do not pass the exam, you may retake it by submitting a Re-Examination Application with the $125 fee. There is no limit on the number of times you can retake the exam, but you must pay the re-examination fee for each attempt. There is no mandatory waiting period between attempts.
Step 5: Receive Your License
Once you pass the exam, your license will be issued automatically. You can print your license from your BreEZe account. California barber licenses are valid for two years and expire in odd-numbered years. The exact expiration date depends on when your license was initially issued.
Reciprocity: Transferring an Out-of-State Barber License to California
If you already hold a current, active barber license in another U.S. state or country, California offers reciprocity that allows you to obtain a California license without taking the examination.
Reciprocity Requirements
To qualify for reciprocity, you must hold a current, active barber license in another state or country that is not revoked, suspended, or otherwise restricted. Your original training must be equivalent to California’s requirements (1,000 hours). You must have passed a written examination in your original state.
If You Have Fewer Training Hours
If your original state required fewer training hours than California’s 1,000 hours, you can substitute work experience: each 3 months of licensed practice equals 100 training hours. Complete and submit an Affidavit of Experience Form C with your application to document your work history.
How to Apply for Reciprocity
Submit a Reciprocity Application online through BreEZe (faster processing) or by mail. Have your current state board send a Certification of Licensure directly to the California BBC. Pay the required fee. Once approved, visit a PSI location in California to have your photo taken, and your license will be issued the same day. You have one year from the date of approval to obtain your license at a PSI site.
License Renewal
California barber licenses must be renewed every two years. Licenses expire in odd-numbered years.
| Renewal Fee | $50 |
| Late Renewal Fee | $75 ($50 + 50% delinquency fee) |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Renewal Method | BreEZe Online Services |
California does not require continuing education for barber license renewal. Simply pay the $50 renewal fee every two years through BreEZe. The BBC sends renewal notices via email approximately 90 days before expiration. If your license expires, you cannot legally perform barbering services until you renew. Renew as soon as possible to avoid late fees and practice interruptions.
SB 803: Key Changes to California Barbering Law (2022)
Senate Bill 803, signed into law on October 7, 2021 and effective January 1, 2022, made significant changes to California’s barbering licensing requirements. Key changes include:
Reduced training hours: Barber program hours reduced from 1,500 to 1,000 hours.
Practical examination eliminated: The hands-on practical examination was removed. Candidates now only need to pass the written exam to become licensed.
Pre-apprenticeship training required: Apprentices must complete a 39-hour pre-apprenticeship course from the BBC before beginning on-the-job training.
Streamlined out-of-state license transfers: The endorsement process for out-of-state license holders was simplified.
Hair type and texture training: Schools must include training on all hair types and textures in their curriculum.
What Can You Do with a California Barber License?
Under Business and Professions Code Section 7316, a California barber license authorizes you to perform:
Hair cutting and styling: Cutting, shaping, tapering, and styling hair using shears, clippers, razors, and other implements.
Straight razor shaving: Shaving the face, neck, and scalp with a straight razor. This is the key distinction between barbers and cosmetologists—only barbers can perform straight razor shaving on clients in California.
Beard and mustache services: Trimming, shaping, and styling facial hair.
Shampooing and scalp treatments: Shampooing, conditioning, and applying scalp treatments.
Chemical hair services: Hair coloring, bleaching, highlighting, permanent waving, and chemical straightening (relaxing).
Basic facial massage: Facial massage in connection with shaving services.
Barber vs. Cosmetologist in California
Both barbers and cosmetologists can cut, style, and chemically treat hair. The key differences are:
| Service | Barber | Cosmetologist |
| Straight razor shaving | Yes | No |
| Nail services (manicures, pedicures) | No | Yes |
| Skin care (facials, waxing) | Limited to shaving-related | Yes |
| Hair cutting and styling | Yes | Yes |
| Chemical services (color, perm) | Yes | Yes |
| Training hours required | 1,000 | 1,000 |
Military Provisions
California offers special accommodations for military members, veterans, and military spouses:
Expedited processing: Applications from honorably discharged veterans are processed on an expedited basis under Business and Professions Code section 115.4.
Military training credit: The BBC may accept comparable military training as documented by Verification of Military Experience and Training (V-MET) records.
License renewal extensions: Active-duty military serving outside California may request extensions on license renewal deadlines.
Skillbridge participants: The BBC offers expedited licensure application processing for service members enrolled in the DoD Skillbridge program.
For more information, visit the DCA Military Services page.
California Barber Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), the national median hourly wage for barbers was $16.95 per hour (approximately $35,250 annually). The lowest 10 percent earned less than $11.82 per hour, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $33.76 per hour. Employment of barbers is projected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations.
California has one of the highest employment levels for barbers in the nation, with major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego offering higher earning potential. Note that BLS data does not capture income from tips, commissions on product sales, or self-employment earnings, all of which are common in the barbering industry and can significantly increase total compensation. Barbers with established clientele or who own their own shops often earn substantially more than median figures indicate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed barber in California?
Most people complete the process in 6 to 10 months. A full-time 1,000-hour school program typically takes 6 to 8 months. After graduating, the application and exam scheduling process adds another 6 to 12 weeks. The apprenticeship pathway takes approximately 9 to 12 months (1,500 hours).
Does California require a practical (hands-on) exam for barbers?
No. As of January 1, 2022, California eliminated the practical exam under SB 803. You only need to pass the written exam (85 scored questions, 120 minutes, 75% passing score) to become licensed.
How much does it cost to become a barber in California?
The state licensing fees total $125 (exam and initial license). Barber school tuition ranges from approximately $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the school. Add costs for books, supplies, and a starter kit. Total investment is typically $6,000 to $17,000.
Can I transfer my out-of-state barber license to California without taking an exam?
Yes. If you hold a current barber license from another U.S. state, you can apply for reciprocity. Have your original state board send a license certification directly to the California BBC, then submit a reciprocity application. You will receive your California license without taking the California exam. If your state required fewer training hours, you can substitute work experience (3 months = 100 hours).
Does California require continuing education for barber license renewal?
No. California does not require continuing education credits to renew a barber license. You simply pay the $50 renewal fee every two years.
What is the difference between a barber and a cosmetologist license in California?
Both licenses require 1,000 hours of training and allow hair cutting, styling, and chemical services. The key difference is that only barbers can perform straight razor shaving. Cosmetologists can perform nail services (manicures, pedicures) and more extensive skin care services (facials, waxing), which barbers cannot.
Can I perform straight razor shaves with a cosmetology license?
No. In California, straight razor shaving is exclusively within the barber scope of practice. Cosmetologists cannot use straight razors on clients. If you want to offer both straight razor shaves and full nail/skin services, you would need both a barber license and a cosmetology license.
Can I work as a barber in California while waiting for my license?
No. You must pass the written examination and receive your license before you can perform barbering services for compensation in California. Working without a license is a misdemeanor and can result in fines.
For a comparison of barber licensing requirements across all states, including training hours, exam formats, fees, and reciprocity rules, see our complete barber license guide.
Official Resources
California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
Department of Consumer Affairs
P.O. Box 944226, Sacramento, CA 94244-2260
Phone: (800) 952-5210
Email: barbercosmo@dca.ca.gov
Website: www.barbercosmo.ca.gov
Apply for a Barber License:
BreEZe Online Services
License Requirements:
BBC License Requirements
Examination Information:
BBC Applicant Information
Schedule Your Exam (PSI):
PSI Exams
Phone: (800) 211-2754
License Verification:
DCA License Search
Reciprocity Application:
Reciprocity Application (PDF)
Apprenticeship Information:
BBC Apprenticeship Program
Pre-Apprenticeship Training:
barbercosmotraining.com
Find Approved Barber Schools:
BBC Approved Schools List
Military Services:
DCA Military Expedited Licensure
SB 803 Information:
SB 803 Questions and Answers (PDF)
Business and Professions Code Chapter 10 (Barbering and Cosmetology Act):
California Legislative Information