Delaware licenses barbers through the Board of Cosmetology and Barbering under the Division of Professional Regulation (DPR), Department of State. You need a Delaware barber license to perform hair cutting, shaving, and grooming services for compensation.
Delaware has a two-tier barber system: Barber (1,250 hours) and Master Barber (1,500 hours). Both require NIC exams administered by Prometric. The Master Barber license adds chemical services to the scope of practice. No CE is required. Total initial cost is approximately $353. Here is exactly how to get your Delaware barber license.
Delaware Barber License Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Agency | Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (DPR, Department of State) |
| Statutory Authority | Delaware Code Title 24, Chapter 51 |
| Minimum Age | 16 years old |
| Education Prerequisite | Completion of 10th grade |
| Training Hours Required | 1,250 hours (Barber) or 1,500 hours (Master Barber) |
| Apprenticeship Available? | Yes — 3,000 hours |
| Exam Required | NIC Written + Practical (Prometric) |
| Passing Score | 75% |
| Exam Fees | ~$225 (Prometric) |
| Application Fee | $128 |
| Total Initial Cost | ~$353 (excluding tuition) |
| Renewal Cycle | Biennial (expires October 31 of even years) |
| Renewal Fee | ~$110 |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Apply Online | DPR Board of Cosmetology and Barbering |
| Board Website | dpr.delaware.gov/boards/cosmetology |
Education & Training Requirements
Delaware offers two barber license tiers:
- Barber (1,250 hours): Hair cutting, trimming, shaving, beard grooming, shampooing, and styling. Does not include chemical services.
- Master Barber (1,500 hours): All barber services plus chemical hair services (coloring, perming, relaxing).
Both programs must be completed at a licensed barber school. Delaware defines a “classroom hour” as 50 minutes of instruction per 60-minute period. Full-time students typically complete the barber program in 8 to 11 months and the master barber program in 10 to 14 months.
Apprenticeship alternative: 3,000 hours under a licensed barber or master barber (approximately 2:1 to 2.4:1 ratio to school hours). Apprentices must register with the board before beginning.
Cosmetologist-to-Master Barber pathway: Licensed cosmetologists with at least 1 year of experience can obtain a Master Barber license by completing a 35-hour shaving certification course and paying additional fees.
For a comparison of barber licensing across all states, see our barber license guide and barber vs cosmetology comparison.
Exam Requirements
NIC Barber exams through Prometric:
- Written Exam: Multiple-choice covering barbering theory, sanitation, anatomy, product chemistry, and Delaware laws.
- Practical Exam: Hands-on demonstration of barbering skills including haircutting, shaving, and styling.
Passing score: 75%. Register at Prometric.
Application Process & Fees
- Complete 1,250 hours of barber training (or 1,500 for Master Barber)
- Register for NIC exams through Prometric (~$225 total)
- Pass the written and practical exams
- Apply through DPR ($128 application fee)
Total: approximately $353.
License Renewal & Continuing Education
Delaware barber licenses expire biennially on October 31 of even years. Renewal fee: approximately $110. No continuing education required. Late renewals incur additional fees.
Reciprocity & License Transfer
Delaware requires out-of-state barbers to pass NIC exams administered by Prometric even when transferring by endorsement. You must provide proof of current licensure in good standing and documentation of training hours. Out-of-state barbers with full-scope licenses (including chemical services) may qualify for the Master Barber category if they have at least 1,500 training hours.
Military Provisions
Delaware provides SCRA (Servicemembers Civil Relief Act) provisions for military members. Active-duty service members and spouses holding valid licenses from other states may receive a provisional 6-month license. Military training, education, and experience (METE) may be credited toward licensing qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours do I need for a barber license in Delaware?
1,250 hours for a Barber license or 1,500 hours for a Master Barber license, or a 3,000-hour apprenticeship. Full-time barber students complete training in about 8 to 11 months.
What is the difference between a Barber and Master Barber in Delaware?
A Barber (1,250 hours) performs hair cutting, shaving, and grooming. A Master Barber (1,500 hours) can do all of that plus chemical services like coloring, perming, and relaxing.
How much does it cost to get a barber license in Delaware?
Approximately $353 total: ~$225 in exam fees (paid to Prometric) and $128 in application fees (paid to DPR).
Does Delaware require continuing education for barbers?
No. Delaware does not require CE for barber or master barber license renewal.
Can a Delaware cosmetologist become a Master Barber?
Yes. Licensed cosmetologists with at least 1 year of experience can obtain a Master Barber license by completing a 35-hour shaving certification course.
Official Resources
- Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (official website)
- Online License Application (DPR)
- Prometric Exam Registration
- Board Contact: (302) 744-4500 | customerservice.dpr@delaware.gov
- Address: Cannon Building, Suite 203, 861 Silver Lake Blvd., Dover, DE 19904