Barber in Minnesota

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

Median Salary
$37,250
Minnesota (2024)
National Median
$38,960
All states
License Fees
$170
Exam + application
Time to Complete
10-14 months
From start to licensed

How to Become a Barber in Minnesota

To become a licensed barber in Minnesota, individuals must complete a 1500-hour training program at a Board-approved barber school and pass the Minnesota State Barber Examination (written and practical). The licensing body is the Minnesota Board of Barber Examiners. Applicants must be at least 17 years old and have completed at least the 10th grade. Reciprocity is available on a case-by-case basis for those licensed in states with substantially similar requirements, with specific agreements with North Dakota, South Dakota, Arizona, and Kansas.

Barber Requirements in Minnesota

DetailMinnesota
Licensing BodyMinnesota Board of Barber Examiners
State License Required Yes
Education1500-hour training program
Experience Required1,500.0 hours
Exam Minnesota State Barber Examination (Written and Practical) ($85)
Application Fee$85
RenewalEvery 1.0 year
NotesApplicants must be at least 17 years old and have completed at least the 10th grade. A $75 Home Study Course is required for all applicants taking the Registered Barber Examination. All barbers are required to work in registered barbershops. Barbers must display their license certificate with a 2x2 inch head and shoulder photograph.

Source: Minnesota Board of Barber Examiners

Barber Salary in Minnesota

The median barber salary in Minnesota is $37,250 per year, which is 4.4% below the national median of $38,960.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$30,390
25th$36,730
50th (median)$37,250
75th$37,250
90th (experienced)$37,620

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 Minnesota Worth It?

Factors to consider: Minnesota'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 I become a barber in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, becoming a barber requires you to complete the required education (1500-hour training program), gain 1,500.0 hours of supervised experience, pass the Minnesota State Barber Examination (Written and Practical), and submit your application ($85 fee).
Do I need a license to work as a barber in Minnesota?
You cannot practice as a barber in Minnesota without a state license from Minnesota Board of Barber Examiners. The required exam is the Minnesota State Barber Examination (Written and Practical).
How much does a barber make in Minnesota?
Minnesota barbers bring home a median salary of $37,250. — within a few percent of the $38,960 national figure. Wages range from $30,390 (10th percentile) up to $37,620 (90th percentile).
How much does it cost to become a barber in Minnesota?
Plan on spending varies total — that covers exam fee ($85) and application fee ($85) plus your education and training.
What's the timeline to become a barber in Minnesota?
Most candidates in Minnesota complete the process in 10-14 months, from enrollment in a training program through licensure.

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