Barber in New Jersey
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NJ
How to Become a Barber in New Jersey
To become a licensed barber in New Jersey, individuals must complete a 900-hour training program from a New Jersey licensed school and be at least 17 years old with a high school diploma or GED. Candidates must pass both a theory exam administered by Prometric and a state board practical exam. The licensing body is the New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling, and licenses are renewed every two years.
Barber Requirements in New Jersey
| Detail | New Jersey |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a 900-hour training program in barbering from a New Jersey licensed school. |
| Exam | New Jersey State Board Theory Exam (Prometric) and Practical Exam ($45) |
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be at least 17 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. The licensing fee is $90 for the first year of a licensing cycle or $45 for the second year. Continuing education is not required for renewal. |
Source: New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling
Barber Salary in New Jersey
The median barber salary in New Jersey is $49,360 per year, which is 26.7% above the national median of $38,960.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $31,470 |
| 25th | $31,470 |
| 50th (median) | $49,360 |
| 75th | $59,830 |
| 90th (experienced) | $73,520 |
New Jersey employs approximately 1,150 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 New Jersey Worth It?
Factors to consider: New Jersey's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.