How to Get a Barber License in California

• SB 803 reduced the requirements significantly: Since January 2022, California only requires 1,000 hours of barber training (down from 1,500) and eliminated the practical exam entirely. You now only need to pass a 85-question written test with a 75% score. This makes California's path to licensure faster and more accessible than it was previously.
• Barber school is the biggest expense: Tuition ranges from $5,000 to $19,000 depending on the school. LA and Bay Area schools tend to charge more. Research schools carefully — compare tuition, completion rates, and job placement data. Financial aid and VA benefits are available at many accredited programs.
• Apprenticeship is an alternative path: California allows aspiring barbers to complete an apprenticeship instead of attending barber school. This lets you earn while you learn, but apprenticeship spots can be harder to find. Contact the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology for current apprenticeship requirements.
• Background check required: California runs a criminal background check as part of the application. Having a conviction does not automatically disqualify you — the Board evaluates each case individually based on the nature of the offense, how long ago it occurred, and evidence of rehabilitation.
• No continuing education for renewal: Unlike many licensed professions, California does not require barbers to complete continuing education for license renewal. You simply pay the $50 renewal fee every 2 years. However, staying current with techniques and trends is important for your career regardless of the legal requirement.

How California Compares

With 1,000 required training hours, California is now in line with the national trend toward reducing barber education requirements. New York requires 1,000 hours, Texas requires 1,500, and Florida requires 1,200. California is unique in having eliminated the practical exam — most states still require a hands-on skills test. The written-only exam makes California one of the more straightforward states for barber licensing once you complete school.

• Visit multiple barber schools before enrolling: Tour at least 3-4 schools in your area. Ask about tuition, financial aid options, class schedules (full-time vs. part-time), student-to-instructor ratio, and job placement rates. Talk to current students and recent graduates. In cities like LA and San Francisco, there are many schools to choose from — do not just pick the nearest one.
• Build your portfolio and social media presence during school: Take photos and videos of every cut you do during training. An Instagram or TikTok portfolio is how modern barbers attract clients before they even graduate. Start building your following early — it will pay off on day one as a licensed barber.
• Study the written exam content outline carefully: Since the practical exam is gone, the written exam is your only hurdle. PSI publishes a candidate information handbook with a detailed content outline. Focus on health and safety, disinfection and sanitation, and California barbering law — these are the areas that trip up the most candidates.
• Consider booth rental vs. commission when starting out: Commission-based positions (typically 50-60% of service revenue) at established shops give you a built-in client base and mentorship with no upfront cost. Booth rental ($200-$600/week in California depending on location) gives you more independence and higher earning potential but requires bringing your own clients.
• Get your establishment license if you plan to open a shop: If your long-term goal is owning a barbershop, you will need a separate establishment license from the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Start planning your business — location, build-out, equipment, insurance, and marketing — while you gain experience working at other shops.