California Barber License

You must get a California barber license to work in the state. The process is not as complicated as many think. It is just a matter of meeting some necessary steps. And, this article will walk you through them.

California Barber License Requirements

The CA Board of Barbering and Cosmetology regulates the process. It also issues nail technician, esthetician, electrologist, and manicurist permits. Alabama also has permits for these majors.

Hairdressers must complete the following steps for legal practice.

Educational Background

The initial stage is enrolling in an approved training program. It should have at least 1,500 hours. Note that you are not allowed entry to the exams unless you finish these hours. Equally important is choosing an accredited institution.

The Salon Professional Academy, for example, prepares students. Click to see the full list of approved schools.

In general, courses include subjects like:

• Hairstyling
• Coloring, cutting, and bleaching
• Shaving
• Waving
• Chemical straightening
• Rules of hygiene and preparation
• Safety
• Anatomy

Apprenticeships are acceptable as well. They consist of two years. So, you learn and work at the same time. To start with, you have to:

• Be at least 16 y/o
• Have valid Social Security number (SSN)
• Show completion of the 10th Grade
• Find an establishment ready to help you

Once done, sign an indenture with salon owners and trainers. Your sponsor will be there, too. His/her main role is to assist with paperwork.

Submit an Application

As soon as you finish your studies, you have to complete the application form for examination. Provide information such as your date of birth, city, zip code, etc. The fee is $125. It is non-refundable.

You may also apply online. Accordingly, enter your user ID and password to sign in. If you do not have an account, register with BreEZe. You shall find the instructions on the website.

Once the Board receives and reviews your request, they will notify you. This way they confirm your eligibility.

Required Examinations

You need to pass the written and practical exams. For the former, you schedule a sitting within 6 weeks. Thus, you select both the location and time. You have 90 minutes to answer 50 questions. Furthermore, you are given time to set up universal supplies necessary for the procedure.

For the latter, you receive an admission letter. As a rule, the testing takes place 25-30 days later. During that, you are to demonstrate your skills. For example, work area and client preparation. Not to forget about blood exposure procedures, haircutting, etc.

Fairfield (north) and Glendale (south) are two permanent testing sites.

After fulfilling the steps mentioned above, you obtain your certification. In general, the entire process takes about ten months.

CA Barber License Renewal

You need to renew your permit in odd-numbered years. Fill in the form and pay the fee of $50.

Note that the state does not demand any continuing education credits. Nonetheless, it is still worth digging deeper into the beauty world.

Verify a California License

To verify your hairdresser’s credentials, you may do a license lookup. The Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) has a similar tool, too.

Contact Information

Mailing Address

PO Box 944226
Sacramento, 94244-2260

In-Person Payments

Department of Consumer Affairs
1625 North Market Blvd Suite S100
Sacramento, 95834