Barber in Wisconsin
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for WI. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Wisconsin.
Jobs (WI)
10-yr job growth
route How to become a barber in Wisconsin
To become a licensed Barber in Wisconsin, individuals must meet the requirements set by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. This typically involves completing a 1000-hour training program at an approved barber school or a 288-hour theoretical instruction and 1,712-hour practical apprenticeship. After completing the education prerequisite, applicants must pass the Wisconsin Barbering Examination, which includes both a theory and practical component. Wisconsin also offers licensure by endorsement for barbers licensed in other states, provided their qualifications are substantially similar and they complete a one-hour course on Wisconsin laws.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Wisconsin. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Wisconsin requirements
| Licensing body | Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1000-hour training program OR 288 hours of theoretical instruction and 1,712 hours of practical training through an apprenticeship |
| Exam | Wisconsin Barbering Examination (Theory and Practical) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing education | 4.0 hours per cycle |
| Reciprocity | Wisconsin offers licensure by endorsement if training is equivalent and a state law course is completed.Reciprocal states: Wisconsin offers licensure by endorsement for individuals licensed in other states, provided their training requirements are substantially equivalent or greater than Wisconsin's, and they complete a one-hour course on Wisconsin statutes and administrative code. If requirements are not met, applicants may need to take the state exams. Wisconsin does not have specific reciprocity agreements with individual states listed, but evaluates on a case-by-case basis. |
| Notes | Minimum age of 18 years old, or high school diploma/GED equivalent. CE hours must include 1 hour of Wisconsin statutes and administrative code relating to barbering practice. |
Source: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Wisconsin? See whether Wisconsin 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_circleWisconsin license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk
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