How to Become a Barber in Alaska
- 1,650 education hours or 2,000 apprentice hours are required to become licensed.
- You must renew your license every 2 years.
- 0 continuing education hours are required to renew your license.
- The average salary for barbers in Alaska is $42,995 ($20.67/hour).
- There is a predicted 7% job increase for barbers between 2018-2028 nationally.
To become a barber in Alaska, you must enroll in a state-approved barbering program and pass the licensing exam.
What to Expect From a Barber Program in Alaska
1,650 Education Hours
Required to earn a barbering license
The best way to earn licensure is through one of Alaska's state-approved barbering programs. These barber schools not only introduce essentials like haircutting and shaving, but they also teach foundational business knowledge. While these programs can start a barbering career, tackling a crossover program that introduces additional skills can enhance career options and increase your salary. Also, check out the state board's list of approved schools here.
You can expect the following from Alaska's barbering programs:
- Business Skills: Running a successful business involves more than just cutting hair. Standout barbering programs cover topics like marketing, bookkeeping, and customer relations.
- Curriculum: Standout barber programs include a mix of theoretical and practical coursework. You can expect to learn about haircutting techniques, styling, shaving, beard grooming, and sanitation and hygiene.
- Hands-On Training: You'll have the chance to work with real clients. This practical experience is crucial for building your skills.
- Licensing Requirements: The best barbering programs ensure you graduate with the required state-mandated training.
- Safety and Sanitation: Health and safety are essential, so programs should emphasize proper sanitation practices.
Alaska Barber Licensing Requirements
Getting a barber license involves meeting requirements set by the Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers. This ensures that licensed barbers are skilled and knowledgeable. To attend the state's licensing exam, you must:
- Be at least 17 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED
- Complete a state-approved barber training program
- Pay the $80 application fee, $140 license fee, and $90 exam fee
- Log 1,650 training hours in an approved barber program
After completing a state-approved barbering program, you can apply for the barber licensing exam. Here's what you can expect from the test.
Written Examination
The written exam assesses your theoretical knowledge. This is typically a multiple-choice test, and you need a minimum score of 75% to pass. Typical topics covered in the test include:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Business principles
- Chemical processes
- Customer service and communication
- Haircutting
- Sanitation and disinfection
- Shaving and beard grooming
- State laws and regulations
Practical Examination
The practical exam evaluates your hands-on skills. During this portion of the test, you'll be required to demonstrate your proficiency in tasks like:
- Customer consultation
- Haircutting
- Sanitation and hygiene
- Setup and teardown
- Shaving
After taking the licensing exam, you can access your scores within 24 hours. If there's a gap between the time you finish your barbering program and take your exam, a temporary student license is available after paying a $100 fee.
Can I Apprentice as a Barber in Alaska?
2,000 Apprenticeship Hours
Required to earn a barbering license
Yes, you can tackle a barber apprenticeship in Alaska. After submitting an apprenticeship application and paying the $125 fee, you must complete 2,000 hours of supervised training before securing your license. Then, you must pass a proficiency test.
Alaska Barber License Reciprocity
Alaska does not have reciprocity agreements with other states. But you can apply for an exam waiver with an active out-of-state barbering license. You must meet Alaska's minimum requirements and supply all relevant information and fees.
Barber License Renewal in Alaska
2 Years
License renewal period
0 Hours
Continuing education required
Your Alaska barbering license expires on August 31st of odd-numbered years. You can renew your license online or by mail, and you must pay the $140 renewal fee. Alaska's Board of Barbers and Hairdressers does not require continuing education credits for license renewal.
Contact the Alaska State Board of Barbering
Resources for Barbers in Alaska
Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers
Your one-stop shop for all barber licensing needs in Alaska.
Board of Barbers and Hairdressers FAQ
From license renewals to exam waivers, the Board's FAQ gets into the nitty-gritty of barber licensing in Alaska.
FAQ
This FAQ answers some of our readers' most pressing questions about barbering programs and careers.
