Are you interested in pursuing a career in barbering? If so, here’s a hot tip for you: get your barber certificate as soon as possible.
This is important because a certificate builds customer confidence. The more comfortable your customers are, the easier it will be to grow your clientele. This is also why most Dallas barbershops only hire certified barbers.
Not sure what it takes to become a certified barber? Here’s a three-step guide that will make your path ahead that much clearer!
Complete Your Educational Requirements
Once you get your high school diploma, there are three educational paths you can take as a barber. Here’s what they are and what they include.
Barber Certificate Program
First, you can get your certificate by completing a short barbering program. These programs focus on the basics of hair care and hairstyling. They include courses in hair care techniques, grooming facial hair, and more.
The certificate program also includes a barber course in professional development. By finishing the course, you’ll qualify for taking Texas’ barber license exam.
Cosmetology degree
Some states allow you to take a barber exam without completing a barber program. The easiest way to do that is to get a cosmetology degree. You can get it at a technical college, community college, or vocational school.
A degree in cosmetology includes up to two years of practical training and barber classes. These degrees cover hair styling, beard care, and chemical treatments. You may also need to take other barber-specific courses.
Apprenticeship
Finally, you may decide to get an apprenticeship with a licensed barber. This training program provides valuable experience in operating a barbershop. In Texas, barber apprenticeships require up to 3,000 hours of training.
Pass the State License Exam
Working as a barber requires you to pass a state license exam. All states have their own versions of this exam. In Texas, the exam consists of a written and practical part, but some states include an oral exam as well.
In general, the practical exam will be the most demanding. Your barber instructor will test all your skills, from shampooing to shaving. They’ll also look at how you prepare the client and set up your equipment.
Obtain and Renew Your License
Once you pass the exam, you’ll need to contact the TDLR (Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation). After processing and accepting your application, they’ll issue you your barber license.
Getting your license isn’t the end, though; you’ll need to keep renewing it every two years. This includes paying a $55 fee. You can also complete continuing education credits, though this isn’t a requirement.
If you have a barber license from another state, you may get a Texas license through reciprocity. For this to work, your training and experience must meet Texas’ requirements.
Barber Certificate Made Easy
As you can see, getting a barber certificate isn’t that complicated. The above guide contains all the key information you’ll need to get started.
Looking into the best ways to prepare for your state license exam? Consider enrolling in our 1,000-hour Class A Barber program! Fill out this application form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
