How to Become a Barber in Idaho
- 900 education hours or 1,800 apprenticeship hours are required to become licensed.
- You must renew your license every year.
- 0 continuing education hours are required to renew your license.
- The average salary for barbers in Idaho is $39,632 ($19.05/hour).
- There is a predicted 7% job increase for barbers between 2018-2028 nationally.
To become a barber in Idaho, you must fulfill the following requirements:
- Be at least 16 1/2 years old
- Complete at least two years of high school or the equivalent
- Pass barber licensure exams
- Haven't engaged in activity that constitutes disciplinary action
- Complete 900 hours of training at an Idaho barber school or a 1,800-hour barber apprenticeship
- Apply for licensure and pay all relevant fees
State License Requirements
900 Education Hours
Required to earn a barbering license
Idaho barber programs comprise 900 hours of training in barber-related sciences, haircutting and styling, shaving, and state regulations.
A standard Idaho barber school curriculum must include the following:
- Arranging and dressing the hair
- Blow-drying
- Diseases of the skin, hair, glands, and nails
- Facials
- Hair and scalp treatment
- Haircutting
- Histology
- Hygiene and disinfection
- Idaho laws and rules
- Massaging and manipulating the muscles of the upper body
- Shampooing
- Shaving
- Structure of the head, face, and neck
- Use of curling iron
Idaho Barber Licensing Requirements
After training, you can take your barber exams to earn your Idaho barber license. You must pass both the written and practical barber exams with a score of 75%. The written exam costs $88, and the practical test costs $120.
If you attended an Idaho barber school, you can register for your exams at www.provexam.com. Apprentice testing candidates must have their supervisor complete the apprentice authorization form before registering.
The written exam lasts 90 minutes and comprises 50 scored questions covering:
- Scientific Concepts: 35%
- Implements and Equipment: 10%
- Hair Care Services: 40%
- Facial Hair and Skin Care Services: 15%
The theory exam can be in English, Vietnamese, Persian, Spanish, or Korean.
The practical exam covers:
- Work Area and Client Preparation and Set Up of Supplies (First client): 10 minutes
- Haircutting: 40 minutes
- Work Area and New Client Preparation and Set Up of Supplies (Second client): 15 minutes
- Shaving with Straight Razor: Variable Timing
- Blood Exposure Procedure: 10 minutes
All supplies must be labeled in English during the practical exam.
Unofficial written exam scores are available at the testing center after you've finished. Official test results will be emailed within four days of your exams.
Can I Apprentice as a Barber in Idaho?
1,800 Apprenticeship Hours
Required to earn a barbering license
Yes, you can apprentice as a barber in Idaho. Barber apprenticeships in Idaho take 1,800 hours and must be completed within 57 weeks.
Before the apprenticeship begins, the instructor must submit the course curriculum to the board for approval. The curriculum must cover the required barber content areas, including:
- Arranging and dressing hair
- Diseases of the skin, hair, glands, and nails
- Haircutting
- Histology
- Idaho laws and rules
- Massaging and manipulating the muscles of the upper body
- Shaving
- Structure of the head, face, and neck
Idaho Barber License Reciprocity
Licensed barbers from other states can obtain their Idaho barber license through endorsement.
In order to qualify, you must:
- Have a current, valid barber license
- Meet Idaho's barber license requirements and provide documentation verifying this or provide documentation you've pursued barber licensure in the last three years
- Submit an endorsement application and pay the $35 fee
Members of the military, spouses, and veterans can have their endorsement applications expedited — obtaining their Idaho license within 15 days of applying.
Barber License Renewal in Idaho
1 Year
License renewal period
0 Hours
Continuing education required
Idaho barber licenses must be renewed annually, on or before the holder's birthday. You must submit a renewal application and pay the $25 renewal fee to renew.
Contact the Idaho State Board of Barbering
Idaho boasts a distinct culture that is very amenable to barbers. State officials also expect that the industry there will skyrocket in the next couple of years. For those interested in barbering in Idaho, it helps to begin the process with these groups.
Resources for Barbers in Idaho
Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board
The government agency responsible for regulating the cosmetology industry in the state.
FAQ about Barbering
This page covers critical information about barber programs and careers.
Barbers of Idaho
A Facebook group for barbers in the state to connect.
Idaho Barber Association
The American Barber Association's Idaho chapter covers barber entrepreneurship, networking, and licensing recognition.
