Barber in Georgia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for GA. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Georgia.
Jobs (GA)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a barber in Georgia
To become a Master Barber in Georgia, individuals must complete either a 1500-hour training program at a Board-approved barber school or a 3000-hour apprenticeship. Additionally, applicants must be at least 17 years old (16 for apprenticeships) and possess a high school diploma, GED, or postsecondary education degree. After completing the education prerequisite, candidates must pass both the PSI National Master Barber Theory Exam (written) and the Georgia Barber Practical Exam. The total cost for the exams is $148, with an additional $30 application fee. While Georgia does not have reciprocity agreements, it offers licensure by endorsement for those licensed in other states or U.S. territories, provided they meet specific criteria including proof of passing English-language exams and good standing.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Georgia. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Georgia requirements
| Licensing body | Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1500-hour training program (minimum 9 months) or 3000-hour apprenticeship (minimum 18 months). High school diploma, GED, or postsecondary education degree also required. |
| Exam | PSI National Master Barber Theory Exam (Written) and Georgia Barber Practical Exam ($148) |
| Application fee | $30 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing education | 5.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Georgia issues a 'Master Barber' license. Minimum age of 17 for school, 16 for apprenticeship. 3 of the 5 CE hours must be in Health and Safety. Applicants must have a high school diploma, GED, or postsecondary education degree. A criminal background check may be required. The first renewal cycle does not require CE hours. |
workspace_premium Georgia license tiers
Georgia offers multiple tiers of barber licensing:
| Tier | Hours required |
|---|---|
| Barber Apprentice | 3,000 |
| Master Barber | 1,500 |
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleGeorgia license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk