Illinois licenses barbers through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). You need an Illinois Licensed Barber credential to legally perform barbering services including hair cutting, styling, shaving, beard services, and chemical treatments for compensation anywhere in the state, including Chicago.
Illinois requires 1,500 hours of approved training at a licensed barber school and passing a written examination. The total application and exam fees are approximately $127. Most people complete the full process in 9 to 15 months. Here is exactly how to do it.
Illinois Barber License Requirements at a Glance
| Official License Title | Licensed Barber |
| Governing Agency | Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) |
| Minimum Age | 16 years old |
| Education Prerequisite | 8th grade completion or equivalent |
| Training Hours Required | 1,500 hours at a licensed barber school |
| State Board Exam | Written exam only (NIC exam, 75% to pass) |
| Exam Provider | Continental Testing Services (CTS) / PSI Services |
| Exam Fee | $127 (paid to CTS) |
| Application Fee | Included in exam fee; license issued after passing |
| Total Initial Cost | Approximately $127 (plus school tuition) |
| License Term | 2 years (expires July 31 of odd-numbered years) |
| Renewal Fee | $50 |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Apply Online | IDFPR Barber |
Step 1: Meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirements
To enroll in an Illinois barber program and apply for licensure, you must be at least 16 years old and have completed the 8th grade or equivalent. Note that barbers in Illinois have a lower education requirement (8th grade) compared to cosmetologists (10th grade).
Illinois also requires a Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) check as part of the application process. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain convictions may be reviewed by the Board.
Step 2: Complete 1,500 Hours at a Licensed Barber School
You must complete 1,500 clock hours of technical instruction and practical training at a barber school licensed by IDFPR. Most full-time programs take 9 to 12 months to complete. Part-time schedules may take 15 to 18 months.
The curriculum covers hair cutting and styling techniques, straight razor shaving, beard and mustache services, shampooing and scalp treatments, hair coloring and bleaching, permanent waving and chemical relaxing, facial treatments, sanitation and infection control, and Illinois laws and rules.
Tuition at Illinois barber schools typically ranges from $10,000 to $18,000 depending on the school and location.
Important: Unlike cosmetology, Illinois does not offer an apprenticeship pathway for barbers. You must complete your training at a licensed barber school. Schools must be approved by IDFPR to provide barber training.
Pre-Graduation Exam Option
Illinois allows students to take the licensing examination before completing all required hours. You may apply to sit for the exam after completing a minimum of 1,200 hours of training. However, you must submit proof of graduation and completion of all 1,500 hours to IDFPR before your license will be issued.
Step 3: Pass the Written Examination
Illinois requires a written (theory) examination for barber licensure. The exam is the National Barber Examination developed by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC). Illinois does not require a separate practical examination administered by the state, though your school will conduct a final practical exam as part of your training.
Written Exam Details
| Exam Type | NIC National Barber Written Examination |
| Format | Computer-based, multiple choice |
| Time Allowed | 90 minutes |
| Passing Score | 75% |
| Languages Available | English, Spanish |
| Exam Fee | $127 paid to CTS |
Exam Content Areas
The NIC National Barber Written Examination covers the following subject areas:
Scientific Concepts: Anatomy, physiology, hair and scalp analysis, chemistry of products.
Hair Services: Haircutting, clipper cutting, styling, shampooing, and conditioning.
Chemical Services: Hair coloring, lightening, permanent waving, and chemical relaxing.
Shaving Services: Straight razor shaving, beard and mustache trimming, facial treatments.
Infection Control and Safety: Sanitation, disinfection, safety procedures, and disease prevention.
Illinois Laws and Regulations: State-specific rules governing barber practice.
Questions are supported by standard barber textbooks, including Milady’s Standard Professional Barbering.
Applying for the Exam
The exam is administered by Continental Testing Services (CTS), which contracts with PSI Services to provide computerized testing at PSI test centers.
To apply, go online at continentaltesting.net and create an account. Pay the non-refundable exam fee ($127). Submit your official school transcript with the school’s seal and signature showing proof of completing the required hours (or at least 1,200 hours for pre-graduation applicants).
After your application is approved, you will receive an email from PSI with instructions to schedule your exam. You have 60 days from the date of the email to schedule and take your exam. If you do not complete your examination within 60 days, your fee is forfeited. Your application is valid for 3 years—if you do not pass within that time, you must reapply as a new applicant.
Testing Locations
PSI test centers are located throughout Illinois, including Carbondale, Champaign, downtown Chicago, East Peoria, Peoria, Galesburg, Glen Ellyn, Springfield, and Westmont. Some locations also available in neighboring states like Evansville, IN.
If You Fail the Exam
If you do not pass the exam, you must wait 30 days before reapplying to CTS. You will receive a diagnostic report showing which areas you need to improve. Apply online as a retake at continentaltesting.net and pay the exam fee again. You do not need to resubmit supporting documents.
Step 4: Apply for Your License
After passing the exam, you will receive your official results letter from CTS within 1-2 weeks. This letter includes instructions on how to apply for your license with IDFPR and the application materials.
Important: Do NOT apply for licensure with IDFPR prior to receiving your Official Results Letter from CTS.
You must submit your license application within 5 years of completing your barber training and within 1 year of passing the examination. Submit your application and score report to:
ATTN: Division of Professional Regulation
P.O. Box 7007
Springfield, IL 62791
Illinois recently launched CORE, a new online licensing system, on October 30, 2024. Check the IDFPR CORE portal for the most current application procedures.
License Renewal
Illinois barber licenses must be renewed every two years. Licenses expire on July 31 of odd-numbered years (2025, 2027, 2029, etc.).
| Renewal Fee | $50 |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Renewal Deadline | July 31 of odd-numbered years |
| Renewal Period | 30 days before expiration |
| Renewal Method | IDFPR Online Renewal |
No Continuing Education Required
Illinois does not require continuing education for barber license renewal. This is a significant difference from cosmetologists, who must complete 14 hours of CE per renewal cycle. However, staying current with industry trends and techniques through voluntary continuing education is recommended for career advancement.
Late Renewal and Restoration
If your license is not renewed by July 31, you may face late fees. If your license has been inactive or non-renewed for five or more years, you must apply for restoration (not just reinstatement).
To restore a lapsed license, you have three options: provide verification of lawful practice in another jurisdiction within the past 5 years, complete a 250-hour barber refresher course at an approved school, or take and pass the Illinois barber licensure examination (prior approval required).
Contact IDFPR at 1-800-560-6420 for detailed restoration requirements.
Transferring an Out-of-State Barber License to Illinois
Illinois offers licensure by endorsement for barbers who hold a current, active license in another state or jurisdiction with requirements substantially similar to Illinois.
Requirements for Endorsement
To apply for licensure by endorsement, you must hold an active license in good standing from another state, have completed training and passed a licensing examination substantially similar to Illinois requirements, have maintained your license for at least 2 years, and provide official certification of licensure from your current state (sent directly to IDFPR).
Illinois may credit up to 300 hours for each year of licensed work experience (maximum of 3 years, or 900 hours) toward the 1,500-hour training requirement. This means if you have at least 1 year of licensed work experience, you may qualify for endorsement even if your original training was less than 1,500 hours.
Important: If you are already licensed in another state, do NOT apply to Continental Testing Services. Apply directly to IDFPR for licensure by endorsement using the IDFPR online portal.
You will need to submit verification of employment forms showing at least 3 years of lawful practice in your home state, transcripts from the barber school you attended, and the appropriate fees.
States Without Reciprocity
Illinois does not have reciprocity agreements with all states. According to multiple sources, Illinois may not have full reciprocity with Alaska, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, New Jersey, New Mexico, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Applicants from these states may need to meet additional training or examination requirements.
Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Contact IDFPR for specifics regarding your situation.
What Can You Do with an Illinois Barber License?
Under the Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Hair Braiding, and Nail Technology Act of 1985 (225 ILCS 410), a Licensed Barber is authorized to perform:
Hair services: Cutting, trimming, shaping, styling, shampooing, and conditioning hair.
Shaving: Shaving or trimming the beard with straight razors, safety razors, and electric razors.
Beard and mustache services: Trimming, shaping, styling, and grooming facial hair.
Chemical services: Hair coloring, bleaching, permanent waving, and chemical relaxing/straightening.
Scalp treatments: Massage, conditioning treatments, and scalp care.
Facial services: Basic facial massage and treatments within the barbering scope.
Hair removal: Singeing, epilating, and depilating hair.
Barber vs. Cosmetologist in Illinois
| Feature | Licensed Barber | Licensed Cosmetologist |
| Training hours | 1,500 hours (school only) | 1,500 hours (school) OR 3,000 hours (apprenticeship) |
| Education requirement | 8th grade completion | 10th grade completion |
| Exam type | Written only (NIC) | Written only |
| Continuing education | None required | 14 hours per renewal |
| License expiration | July 31, odd years | September 30, odd years |
| Straight razor shaving | Yes | Limited |
| Nail services | No | Yes |
| Esthetics/skincare | Limited | Yes |
Barber Teacher License
If you want to teach barbering in an Illinois barber school, you need a Barber Teacher license. Requirements include holding a current Illinois Barber license, completing teacher training, and passing the Barber Teacher examination.
Apply for the Barber Teacher exam through Continental Testing Services.
Military Provisions
Illinois offers special accommodations for military members, veterans, and military spouses:
Expedited licensing: IDFPR provides expedited processing for military applicants.
License extensions: If your license expired while serving on active duty, you may restore your license within two years of separation from Honorable Active military service without additional requirements.
Experience credit: Military training and experience in barbering may be considered toward licensing requirements.
For more information, visit the IDFPR Military Licensing Assistance page.
Illinois 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.
Illinois is one of the higher-paying states for barbers. Beauty Schools Directory reports the median barber salary in Illinois at approximately $36,300 per year ($17.45 per hour) as of 2024. Experienced barbers in Illinois can earn significantly more, with top earners making $56,000+ per year.
The number of barber jobs in Illinois is projected to grow approximately 4% between 2024 and 2034, in line with national projections. Strong demand exists in the Chicago metropolitan area and other urban centers.
Note that BLS data does not capture income from tips, commissions on product sales, or self-employment earnings, which are common in the barbering industry and can significantly increase total compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed barber in Illinois?
Most people complete the process in 9 to 15 months. A full-time 1,500-hour school program typically takes 9 to 12 months. After completing training, the exam and application process adds another 2 to 4 weeks. You can take the exam after completing 1,200 hours, but you must complete all 1,500 hours before receiving your license.
Does Illinois require a practical exam for barbers?
No. Illinois requires only a written (theory) examination administered by CTS/PSI using the NIC National Barber exam. Your school will conduct a final practical exam as part of your training, but there is no separate state-administered practical exam.
What score do I need to pass the Illinois barber exam?
You must score 75% or higher to pass. This is higher than some other states that require only 70%.
Does Illinois offer an apprenticeship pathway for barbers?
No. Unlike cosmetology (which offers a 3,000-hour apprenticeship option), Illinois does not offer an apprenticeship pathway for barbers. You must complete your training at a licensed barber school.
Can I transfer my out-of-state barber license to Illinois?
Yes, through licensure by endorsement. Apply directly to IDFPR (not to Continental Testing Services). Illinois may credit work experience toward training hour requirements. You must have maintained your license for at least 2 years and have been lawfully practicing. Not all states have reciprocity agreements with Illinois.
Is continuing education required for Illinois barbers?
No. Illinois does not require continuing education for barber license renewal. This is different from cosmetologists, who must complete 14 hours of CE per renewal cycle.
When do Illinois barber licenses expire?
Barber licenses expire on July 31 of odd-numbered years (2025, 2027, 2029, etc.). The renewal fee is $50. You can renew online 30 days before the expiration date.
Is a Chicago barber license different from an Illinois license?
No. Illinois licenses are issued at the state level. Once you have an Illinois barber license, you can work anywhere in the state, including Chicago and all other cities.
What happens if I fail the exam three times?
You may continue to retake the exam, but you must wait 30 days between attempts and pay the exam fee each time. Your application is valid for 3 years—if you do not pass within that time, you must reapply as a new applicant with all new documentation.
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
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
Chicago Office: 555 West Monroe Street, 5th Floor, Chicago, IL 60661
Springfield Office: 320 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor, Springfield, IL 62786
Phone: 1-888-473-4858
TTY/TDD: 1-866-325-4949
Website: IDFPR Barber
Apply for Licensure (CORE Portal):
IDFPR CORE System
Schedule Your Exam (Continental Testing Services):
Continental Testing Services
Barber Examination Online Application
Exam Study Guide:
NIC Candidate Study Guide for National Barber Written Examination
PSI Testing Information:
PSI Services
Phone: 1-800-733-9267
License by Endorsement (Out-of-State):
IDFPR Online Application Portal
License Verification:
IDFPR License Lookup
License Renewal:
IDFPR Online Renewal
Reactivate Your License:
IDFPR Reinstatement or Restoration
Licensed Barber Schools:
IDFPR Licensed Schools List
Military Licensing Assistance:
IDFPR Military Services
Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Hair Braiding, and Nail Technology Act of 1985:
225 ILCS 410
Illinois Administrative Rules:
Title 68: Professions and Occupations – Barber Rules
Criminal Conviction FAQs:
BCENT Criminal Conviction FAQs (PDF)