Barber in Missouri
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MO
How to Become a Barber in Missouri
To become a licensed Barber in Missouri, individuals must complete either a 1500-hour training program at an approved barber school or a 2000-hour apprenticeship. After completing the education prerequisite, applicants must pass both a written and practical examination administered by Prov. The licensing body is the Missouri State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. Missouri offers reciprocity for licensed barbers from other states with comparable requirements or two years of experience, provided they pass a state law exam.
Barber Requirements in Missouri
| Detail | Missouri |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Missouri State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1500-hour training program or 2000-hour apprenticeship |
| Experience Required | 1,000.0 hours |
| Exam | Missouri State Board Barber Examination (Written and Practical) ($146) |
| Application Fee | $20 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age of 17 and completion of 10th grade or equivalent required. Licenses expire on September 30 of odd-numbered years. Must be free of contagious or infectious diseases. Background check may be required. |
Source: Missouri State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners
Barber Salary in Missouri
The median barber salary in Missouri is $44,390 per year, which is 13.9% above the national median of $38,960.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $28,690 |
| 25th | $36,160 |
| 50th (median) | $44,390 |
| 75th | $73,580 |
| 90th (experienced) | $78,470 |
Missouri employs approximately 470 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 Missouri Worth It?
Factors to consider: Missouri's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.