Barber in Indiana

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for IN

Median Salary
$43,590
Indiana (2024)
National Median
$38,960
All states
License Fees
$84
Exam + application
Time to Complete
approximately 10-14 months
From start to licensed

How to Become a Barber in Indiana

To become a licensed Barber in Indiana, individuals must complete a 1500-hour training program at a state-approved beauty culture school. After completing the education, applicants must pass the PSI Barber Examination and submit an application with a $40 fee to the Indiana State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. Applicants must be at least 17 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent, or at least 18 years old. Indiana offers reciprocity for out-of-state licensees whose requirements are substantially similar to its own.

Barber Requirements in Indiana

DetailIndiana
Licensing BodyIndiana State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners
State License Required Yes
Education1500-hour training program
Experience Required1,500.0 hours
Exam PSI Barber Examination ($44)
Application Fee$40
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
NotesApplicants must be at least 17 years old and a high school graduate (or equivalent) or at least 18 years old. A passing score of 75% is required on the written exam. There may also be a practical exam requirement, though some sources only mention a written exam. Background checks are required.

Source: Indiana State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners

Barber Salary in Indiana

The median barber salary in Indiana is $43,590 per year, which is 11.9% above the national median of $38,960.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$19,070
25th$26,950
50th (median)$43,590
75th$56,470
90th (experienced)$56,470

Indiana employs approximately 270 barbers.

Barber Job Outlook

10-Year Growth
+4.1%
Faster than average
Annual Openings
8.4
Nationwide per year
Total Employment
76
Nationwide

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 Indiana Worth It?

Factors to consider: Indiana's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get certified as a barber in Indiana?
In Indiana, becoming a barber requires you to complete the required education (1500-hour training program), gain 1,500.0 hours of supervised experience, pass the PSI Barber Examination, and submit your application ($40 fee).
Is a barber license required in Indiana?
You cannot practice as a barber in Indiana without a state license from Indiana State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. The required exam is the PSI Barber Examination.
How much does a barber make in Indiana?
The median barber salary in Indiana is $43,590 per year. — 12% higher than the $38,960 national figure. New barbers start around $19,070; seasoned professionals can reach $56,470.
What are the fees to become a barber in Indiana?
The full cost to enter the field runs about varies, factoring in exam fee ($44) and application fee ($40) and required training.
How quickly can I become a barber in Indiana?
In Indiana, becoming a barber generally takes approximately 10-14 months, accounting for education requirements, hands-on training, and the exam process.

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