Barber in Arizona

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AZ. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary

$32,840

trending_down -15.7% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Arizona.

monitoring Strong

+4.1%

10-yr job growth

payments

$217

Licensing fees

schedule

9-12 months

Time to complete

route How to become a barber in Arizona

To become a licensed Barber in Arizona, individuals must complete a 1200-hour training program at a board-licensed barber school or an approved apprenticeship program. Applicants must be at least 16 years old and have completed at least two years of high school or its equivalent. After completing the education, candidates must pass both a written and practical examination administered by Professional Credential Services (PCS). The application process also requires a fee and proof of U.S. citizenship or authorized presence. Arizona offers reciprocity for barbers licensed in other states or countries, provided their qualifications are substantially similar and they have at least one year of work experience.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $30,530

25th percentile $32,510

50th (median) $32,840

75th percentile $32,840

90th (experienced) $35,610

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Arizona. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist Arizona requirements

Licensing body	Arizona State Board of Barbers
State license	Required
Education	1200-hour training program or approved apprenticeship
Experience	1,000.0 hours
Exam	AZ State Board Barber Examination (Written and Practical) ($177)
Application fee	$40
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Notes	Applicants must be at least 16 years old and have completed at least two years of high school education or its equivalent. Proof of U.S. citizenship or authorized presence is required. A passport-sized photo is also needed for the application.

Source: Arizona State Board of Barbers

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth

+4.1%

Faster than average

Annual openings

8,400

Nationwide per year

Total employment

76,000

Nationwide

neurology

AI & tech impact

verified Low exposure -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.

hub

balance Is it worth it?

check_circleArizona license required — clearer credential signal to employers
check_circleLow AI disruption risk

psychology

Wondering if a barber career is the right fit?

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Frequently asked questions

How do I become a barber in Arizona? expand_more

In Arizona, becoming a barber requires you to complete the required education (1200-hour training program or approved apprenticeship), gain 1,000.0 hours of supervised experience, pass the AZ State Board Barber Examination (Written and Practical), and submit your application ($40 fee).

Is a barber license required in Arizona? expand_more

Arizona mandates state licensure for barbers. Arizona State Board of Barbers oversees the process, which includes passing the AZ State Board Barber Examination (Written and Practical).

What do barbers earn in Arizona? expand_more

In Arizona, the median pay for barbers comes to $32,840/year. — 16% under the $38,960 national average. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $30,530, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $35,610.

How much does it cost to become a barber in Arizona? expand_more

Between exam fee ($177) and application fee ($40), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.

How many months or years does barber certification take in Arizona? expand_more

In Arizona, becoming a barber generally takes 9-12 months, accounting for education requirements, hands-on training, and the exam process.