How much does a Barber license cost in California?

The estimated total cost is $325, including application fees, and education costs.

How long does it take to get a Barber license in California?

The process typically takes 9-12 months (including barber school), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.

What exam do I need for a Barber license in California?

You need to pass the PSI State Board Practical & Written Exam. N/A

Barber License in California

To become a licensed barber in California, you must be 17+, have a 10th grade education, complete an approved barber school program, and pass the PSI exam. The initial fee is $125 (includes exam and license), with $50 biennial renewal.

Education Required: 1500 hours
Exam: PSI State Board Practical & Written Exam
Total Cost: $325 (est.)
Timeline: 9-12 months (including barber school)
Renewal: Every Biennial

Requirements

Barber license in California

gold

Veterans Benefits

Expedited processing is available for military and spouses

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee: $125
Renewal Fee: $50
Total Estimated Cost: $325

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs~Board of Barbering and Cosmetology

Website 8009525210 Email

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Barber license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Application Fee

$125

Renewal Fee

$50

Total Estimated Cost

$325

Education / School Cost

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

Include first renewal fee ($50)

Application FeeEst.$125

Total Estimated Cost$125

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.

Barber Salary in California

Entry Level

$33,870

Median

$36,590

Experienced

$63,910

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Barber in California.

1

Submit Your Application

File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$125.
2

Receive Your License

Processing typically takes 9-12 months (including barber school).

Barber Licensing in California: What to Know

California's initial fee of $125 includes both examination and licensing costs — one of the more streamlined fee structures. Biennial renewal is just $50. Candidates must be at least 17 years old, have completed the 10th grade (or equivalent), and meet one of several pathways: barber school completion, apprenticeship, or cosmetology license with additional training. Exams are offered Monday through Friday at PSI testing locations throughout the state. The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology offers expedited processing for military and spouses.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Barber license cost in California?: The estimated total cost is $325, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Barber license in California?: The process typically takes 9-12 months (including barber school), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Barber license in California?: You need to pass the PSI State Board Practical & Written Exam. N/A