Barber in Wisconsin
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for WI
How to Become a Barber in Wisconsin
To become a licensed Barber in Wisconsin, individuals must meet the requirements set by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. This typically involves completing a 1000-hour training program at an approved barber school or a 288-hour theoretical instruction and 1,712-hour practical apprenticeship. After completing the education prerequisite, applicants must pass the Wisconsin Barbering Examination, which includes both a theory and practical component. Wisconsin also offers licensure by endorsement for barbers licensed in other states, provided their qualifications are substantially similar and they complete a one-hour course on Wisconsin laws.
Barber Requirements in Wisconsin
| Detail | Wisconsin |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1000-hour training program OR 288 hours of theoretical instruction and 1,712 hours of practical training through an apprenticeship |
| Exam | Wisconsin Barbering Examination (Theory and Practical) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 4.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age of 18 years old, or high school diploma/GED equivalent. CE hours must include 1 hour of Wisconsin statutes and administrative code relating to barbering practice. |
Source: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
Barber Salary in Wisconsin
The median barber salary in Wisconsin is $34,360 per year, which is 11.8% below the national median of $38,960.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $29,010 |
| 25th | $29,510 |
| 50th (median) | $34,360 |
| 75th | $47,260 |
| 90th (experienced) | $49,190 |
Wisconsin employs approximately 350 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 Wisconsin Worth It?
Factors to consider: Wisconsin's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.