Barber in District of Columbia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DC. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, District of Columbia.
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a barber in District of Columbia
To become a licensed Barber in the District of Columbia, individuals must complete a 1500-hour training program at a Board-approved school or an approved 2000-hour apprenticeship program. After completing the education prerequisite, applicants must pass the NIC National Barber Styling Examination (Written and Practical). The application fee is $65, and the exam fee is $230. Licenses must be renewed every two years, requiring 6 continuing education hours, including 2 hours of health and safety. The District of Columbia offers reciprocity for licenses from states with substantially equivalent requirements.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for District of Columbia. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist District of Columbia requirements
| Licensing body | District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1500-hour training program |
| Experience | 1,500.0 hours |
| Exam | NIC National Barber Styling Examination (Written and Practical) ($230) |
| Application fee | $65 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing education | 6.0 hours per cycle |
| Reciprocity | DC offers reciprocity and endorsement for barbers with equivalent licenses, good standing, and active practice.Reciprocal states: The District of Columbia offers reciprocity to applicants licensed in other jurisdictions with substantially equivalent requirements (1500 hours of training) at the time of their licensure, provided that jurisdiction admits DC-licensed barbers in a like manner. Applicants must provide a letter of good standing and prove they were actively engaged in the profession in the other jurisdiction. Licensure by endorsement is also available for those who passed an acceptable exam, have active certification from a recognized national certifying organization, and have not been disciplined by that organization. |
| Notes | Minimum age is 18 years old. Applicants must not have been convicted of crimes of moral turpitude. CE hours must include 2 hours of health and safety and 4 hours of general elective courses. First-time renewals are exempt from CE requirements. Apprenticeships are an alternative path requiring 2000 hours of work experience and classroom training, with the apprentice being at least 18 years of age. |
Source: District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology
Already licensed elsewhere and moving to District of Columbia? See whether District of Columbia recognizes an out-of-state credential — with the tier and pathway for all 50 states — in our Barber license reciprocity guide.
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_circleDistrict of Columbia license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk
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