Barber in District of Columbia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DC
How to Become a Barber in District of Columbia
To become a licensed Barber in the District of Columbia, individuals must complete a 1500-hour training program at a Board-approved school or an approved 2000-hour apprenticeship program. After completing the education prerequisite, applicants must pass the NIC National Barber Styling Examination (Written and Practical). The application fee is $65, and the exam fee is $230. Licenses must be renewed every two years, requiring 6 continuing education hours, including 2 hours of health and safety. The District of Columbia offers reciprocity for licenses from states with substantially equivalent requirements.
Barber Requirements in District of Columbia
| Detail | District of Columbia |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1500-hour training program |
| Experience Required | 1,500.0 hours |
| Exam | NIC National Barber Styling Examination (Written and Practical) ($230) |
| Application Fee | $65 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 6.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age is 18 years old. Applicants must not have been convicted of crimes of moral turpitude. CE hours must include 2 hours of health and safety and 4 hours of general elective courses. First-time renewals are exempt from CE requirements. Apprenticeships are an alternative path requiring 2000 hours of work experience and classroom training, with the apprentice being at least 18 years of age. |
Source: District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology
Barber Salary in District of Columbia
The median barber salary in District of Columbia is $102,360 per year, which is 162.7% above the national median of $38,960.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $71,350 |
| 25th | $78,080 |
| 50th (median) | $102,360 |
| 75th | $103,390 |
| 90th (experienced) | $107,760 |
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 District of Columbia Worth It?
Factors to consider: District of Columbia's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.