Kentucky licenses barbers through the Kentucky Board of Barbering, a separate board from the one that governs cosmetology. You need a Kentucky barber license to legally perform hair cutting, shaving, beard grooming, and other barbering services for compensation anywhere in Kentucky.
Kentucky requires 1,500 hours of approved training, a two-phase examination process, and a mandatory 6 to 9 month apprenticeship after passing the initial exam. The higher 75% passing score and $500 total initial cost make Kentucky’s barber licensing process more demanding than many states. Here is exactly how to do it.
Recent Legislation Affecting Kentucky Barber Licensing
SB 22 (effective June 27, 2025): Legalized mobile barber shops (must be associated with a physical location and submit weekly itineraries to the Board), allowed inmates in state jails to take the barber exam, and permitted unlimited exam retake attempts with a one-month waiting period.
Kentucky Barber License Requirements at a Glance
| Governing Agency | Kentucky Board of Barbering |
| Training Hours Required | 1,500 hours at a licensed barber school |
| Post-Exam Apprenticeship | 6-9 months mandatory in a licensed barbershop |
| Education Prerequisite | High school diploma or GED |
| Exam Required | Apprentice exam (written + practical) then Barber exam (practical only) |
| Passing Score | 75% on all exam components |
| Apprentice Exam Fee | $200 |
| Barber License Exam Fee | $200 |
| Apprentice License Fee | $50 |
| Barber License Fee | $50 |
| Total Initial Cost | ~$500 (excluding tuition) |
| Renewal Cycle | Annual (June 1 – July 1) |
| Renewal Fee | $50 |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Apply Online | Kentucky Barbering Portal |
Step 1: Meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirements
You must hold a high school diploma or GED to obtain an apprentice barber license in Kentucky.
If you are deciding between barbering and cosmetology, both require 1,500 hours in Kentucky, but they are governed by different boards. Barbering focuses on hair cutting, shaving, and grooming. Cosmetology covers hair, skin, and nails. For a full comparison, see our barber vs cosmetology license guide.
Step 2: Complete 1,500 Hours at a Licensed Barber School
You must complete 1,500 hours of instruction at a licensed barber school. Instruction must be between 4 and 8 hours per day, exclusive of Sundays. Full-time programs typically take 10 to 14 months.
Cosmetology Credit: If you hold a Kentucky cosmetology license, you receive credit for 750 hours toward the barber school course.
Step 3: Pass the Apprentice Exam
After completing school, you take the Apprentice Barber Exam ($200 fee). This includes:
- Written exam: 50 multiple-choice questions, 30 minutes. Passing score: 75%.
- Practical exam: 1 hour 20 minutes. Passing score: 75%.
Step 4: Complete the 6-9 Month Apprenticeship
After passing the apprentice exam, you receive an Apprentice Barber license ($50) and must complete a supervised apprenticeship:
- Work in a licensed barber shop or school
- Minimum 20 hours per week for at least 6 continuous months
- Take the Barber License Exam between the 6th and 9th month
- Apprentice license expires after 9 months
Step 5: Pass the Barber License Exam
The Barber License Exam ($200) is practical only (no written component). Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes. You must demonstrate one of: permanent wave, hair straightening, or hair coloring. Passing score: 75%.
License Renewal
Kentucky barber licenses renew annually between June 1 and July 1 (different from KBC’s July 1-31 window). The renewal fee is $50. No continuing education is required.
Late Renewal: A $25 late fee applies if not postmarked by July 1.
Transferring an Out-of-State Barber License to Kentucky
The Board issues licenses to applicants with a current license from another state with substantially similar requirements (1,500 hours). Applicants unable to prove equivalent training must show 3+ years of experience and a current license in good standing. Additional exams may be required. License fee: $50.
Military Members, Veterans, and Military Spouses
Kentucky’s general military license portability laws under KRS 12.245 likely apply to barber licenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a barber license in Kentucky?
The total process takes approximately 16 to 23 months. A full-time 1,500-hour school program takes 10 to 14 months, followed by a mandatory 6 to 9 month apprenticeship in a licensed barbershop.
How much does it cost to get a barber license in Kentucky?
The total licensing cost (excluding tuition) is approximately $500: $200 for the apprentice exam, $50 for the apprentice license, $200 for the barber exam, and $50 for the barber license.
Does Kentucky require continuing education for barbers?
No. Kentucky does not require continuing education for barber license renewal.
Can a cosmetologist become a barber in Kentucky?
Yes. Kentucky cosmetology license holders receive credit for 750 hours toward the 1,500-hour barber school requirement, reducing the additional training needed.
Are mobile barber shops allowed in Kentucky?
Yes. SB 22 (effective June 2025) legalized mobile barber shops. They must be associated with a physical location and submit weekly itineraries and location changes to the Board.
For a comparison of barber licensing requirements across all states, see our complete barber license guide.
Official Resources
- Kentucky Board of Barbering (official website)
- Online Application Portal
- Official Fee Schedule
- License Verification
- Board Contact: (502) 429-7148
- Board Address: 312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 110, Louisville, KY 40222