Barber Schools in Hawaii

Barbering may be a great career option for Hawaiians who want to work with their hands in a social environment. But before you start cutting, trimming, and shaving professionally, you must complete a barber education program or apprenticeship.

Hawaiian barber schools should prepare you for the state barber licensing exams and teach you the skills you need for a successful barbering career.

Browse our directory of barbering schools in Hawaii, or skip ahead to learn about the state's barbering licensing requirements and job outlook.

How to Become a Barber in Hawaii

To become a barber in Hawaii, you must be at least 16, have a high school diploma, complete a 1,500-hour barber program or apprenticeship, pass the national NIC written and practical barber licensing exams, and submit a licensing fee along with your application.

A Hawaii barber's license costs $159 for applications submitted in even-numbered years and $86 for those submitted in odd-numbered years. Along with your application and license fee, you must provide documentation confirming your identity, education, and passing score on your exams.

What to Expect From a Barber Program in Hawaii

Barber programs in Hawaii should offer a blend of classroom lectures and practical application of traditional and contemporary barber skills, techniques, and tools.

Some of what you should be able to expect from a Hawaiian barbering program includes:

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Barber programs in Hawaii cover haircutting, styling, shaving, coloring, and sanitation practices, among other subjects.
• Hands-on Training: Practical experience is a cornerstone of the best Hawaiian barbering programs—it allows students to refine their skills by working on actual clients under the guidance of experienced instructors.
• State Regulations: Hawaii has specific licensing requirements for barbers, and the best programs ensure you're well-prepared for the licensing exams and understand the state's health and safety regulations.
• Networking: Barber programs often foster a sense of community, allowing you to connect with fellow barbering students and industry professionals while potentially opening doors to job opportunities.
• Business Management: The best barbering programs introduce foundational business skills, helping you understand how to manage a barbershop or establish your own business.
• Adapting to Client Needs: No two clients are identical, and you'll learn to adjust your skills and cater to a diverse clientele with varying preferences and needs.

Many students complete their 1,500 hours of barber training in under a year. Additionally, crossover programs blending barbering and cosmetology allow you to hone more diverse skills. Some of the essential barbering topics you can expect in any program are:

• Bacteriology
• Beard Design
• Hair Coloring
• Hair, Skin, and Scalp Disorders
• Haircutting
• Hairstyling
• History of Barbering
• Hygiene
• Implements
• Personal Ethics
• Sales and Shop Management
• Shampooing
• Shaving
• Sterilization and Sanitation
• Test Prep

Hawaii Barber Licensing Requirements

To take the national barber licensing exams required by the Hawaii Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, you must:

• Be 16 years old
• Be a high school graduate
• Complete a board-approved barber program or on-the-job training as an apprentice
• Pay a fee when you register for your exams

Whether you choose a barber school or barber apprenticeship on your path to licensure, you must spend 1,500 hours on this training before your exams. It costs $90 per exam to register.

You have four chances to pass Hawaii's barber licensing exam. Those who fail to earn the required 75% passing score after four attempts must complete a six-month apprenticeship before retaking the tests. Hawaii's barbering exam is given four times annually in March, June, September, and December.

After submitting your application for barbering licensure, you will receive your license card in 2-3 weeks. Licensing requirements can change over time, so contact Hawaii's barbering board if you have any questions.

Can I Apprentice as a Barber in Hawaii?

Yes, you can apprentice as a barber in Hawaii. You must find an experienced barber as a mentor, submit a barber apprenticeship application, and complete 1,500 hours of supervised training. Combining an apprenticeship with barber school training is possible, but it must be approved by the State Board.

NOTE: A new act increased the required number of barber apprenticeship hours from 1,500 to 3,000 for all applications filed after July 1^st, 2024.

Hawaii Barber License Reciprocity

Hawaii's Board of Barbering and Cosmetology does not reciprocate licenses from other states or jurisdictions.

Barber License Renewal in Hawaii

After securing your Hawaii barber license, you must renew it every two years and pay a $146 fee. Barber licenses expire on December 31^st of odd-numbered years. You receive an official renewal notification at least one month before the license expires. Be on the lookout in early winter. Be sure to contact the Board if you do not receive your renewal form by mail. Barbers in Hawaii are not required to complete continuing education to maintain their licenses.

Contact the Hawaii State Board of Barbering

Resources for Barbers in Hawaii

Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
Part of Hawaii's Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, this page is your hub for all barber licensing needs.

Board of Barbering and Cosmetology FAQ
This FAQ answers many practical questions about becoming a barber in Hawaii.

Hawaii Institute of Hair Design
HIHD is Hawaii's top barbering and cosmetology school and is eligible for various financial aid options, including Pell Grants.