Barber in North Carolina
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NC
How to Become a Barber in North Carolina
To become a Registered Barber in North Carolina, individuals must complete a 1,528-hour training program at a North Carolina Board of Barber and Electrolysis Examiners-approved barber school. After completing the education and passing the Apprentice Barber Licensing Exam (written and practical), a 12-month apprenticeship under a licensed barber is required. Finally, applicants must pass the Registered Barber Examination (clinical) to obtain full licensure. North Carolina offers reciprocity for out-of-state licensees who meet comparable training and experience requirements.
Barber Requirements in North Carolina
| Detail | North Carolina |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | North Carolina Board of Barber and Electrolysis Examiners |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1528-hour training program |
| Exam | Apprentice Barber Licensing Exam (written and practical), Registered Barber Examination (clinical) ($85) |
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Renewal | Every 1.0 year |
| Notes | Applicants must be at least 16 years of age and have a U.S. Social Security Number. A criminal background check (FBI Criminal History Summary) is required. After completing the 1528-hour training program and passing the Apprentice Barber Licensing Exam, an apprentice license is issued. The individual must then complete a 12-month apprenticeship under a licensed barber before being eligible to take the Registered Barber Examination to become a Registered Barber. |
Source: North Carolina Board of Barber and Electrolysis Examiners
License Tiers
North Carolina offers multiple tiers of barber licensing:
| Tier | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| Apprentice | 1,528 |
| Registered Barber | N/A |
Barber Salary in North Carolina
The median barber salary in North Carolina is $64,290 per year, which is 65.0% above the national median of $38,960.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $41,070 |
| 25th | $59,420 |
| 50th (median) | $64,290 |
| 75th | $97,220 |
| 90th (experienced) | $104,700 |
North Carolina employs approximately 250 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 North Carolina Worth It?
Factors to consider: North Carolina's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.