Barber in Georgia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for GA
How to Become a Barber in Georgia
To become a Master Barber in Georgia, individuals must complete either a 1500-hour training program at a Board-approved barber school or a 3000-hour apprenticeship. Additionally, applicants must be at least 17 years old (16 for apprenticeships) and possess a high school diploma, GED, or postsecondary education degree. After completing the education prerequisite, candidates must pass both the PSI National Master Barber Theory Exam (written) and the Georgia Barber Practical Exam. The total cost for the exams is $148, with an additional $30 application fee. While Georgia does not have reciprocity agreements, it offers licensure by endorsement for those licensed in other states or U.S. territories, provided they meet specific criteria including proof of passing English-language exams and good standing.
Barber Requirements in Georgia
| Detail | Georgia |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1500-hour training program (minimum 9 months) or 3000-hour apprenticeship (minimum 18 months). High school diploma, GED, or postsecondary education degree also required. |
| Exam | PSI National Master Barber Theory Exam (Written) and Georgia Barber Practical Exam ($148) |
| Application Fee | $30 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 5.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Georgia issues a 'Master Barber' license. Minimum age of 17 for school, 16 for apprenticeship. 3 of the 5 CE hours must be in Health and Safety. Applicants must have a high school diploma, GED, or postsecondary education degree. A criminal background check may be required. The first renewal cycle does not require CE hours. |
License Tiers
Georgia offers multiple tiers of barber licensing:
| Tier | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| Barber Apprentice | 3,000 |
| Master Barber | 1,500 |
Barber Salary in Georgia
The median barber salary in Georgia is $47,630 per year, which is 22.3% above the national median of $38,960.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $18,330 |
| 25th | $29,180 |
| 50th (median) | $47,630 |
| 75th | $63,810 |
| 90th (experienced) | $85,600 |
Georgia employs approximately 650 barbers.
Barber Job Outlook
AI Impact on Barbers
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.73/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Barber in Georgia Worth It?
Factors to consider: Georgia's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.