Barber in New York
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NY
How to Become a Barber in New York
To become a licensed Barber in New York, individuals must complete an approved course of study or a two-year apprenticeship under a licensed barber. Applicants must pass the New York State Barber Examination (written and practical) and submit a health certification form and proof of completing a course on contagious diseases. New York offers reciprocity with Maine, New Mexico, and Pennsylvania, waiving the practical exam for licensees from these states. The minimum age to apply is 17.
Barber Requirements in New York
| Detail | New York |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of an approved course of study |
| Exam | New York State Barber Examination (Written and Practical) ($15) |
| Application Fee | $40 |
| Renewal | Every 4.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age 17. Requires a health certification form completed by a physician, physician's assistant, or nurse practitioner. Must complete a one-time course on transmission of contagious diseases and proper sanitation/sterilization. |
Source: New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services
License Tiers
New York offers multiple tiers of barber licensing:
| Tier | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| Barber Apprentice | N/A |
| Barber | N/A |
Barber Salary in New York
The median barber salary in New York is $32,050 per year, which is 17.7% below the national median of $38,960.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $32,050 |
| 25th | $32,050 |
| 50th (median) | $32,050 |
| 75th | $60,500 |
| 90th (experienced) | $86,850 |
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 York Worth It?
Factors to consider: New York's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.