Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AL Board of Personal Care
Barber Licensing in Alabama
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for barber in Alabama, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Barber in Alabama
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Alabama State Board of Cosmetology & Barbering
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$27,850 median (29% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#47 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Alabama
With a median salary of 27,850, Barbers in Alabama earn 29% below the national median of $38,960. Alabama ranks #47 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$27,850Hourly estimate
$13.3929% below national median
Difference: -$11,110
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationBarber Salary Ranking
#47 of 50 statesfor Barber median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Iowa | 78,480 |
| #2 | Washington | 70,750 |
| #3 | North Carolina | 64,290 |
| #4 | Colorado | 56,690 |
| #5 | Louisiana | 49,850 |
Nearby States Comparison
Barber licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $27,850 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $31,230 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $47,630 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $46,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $24,110 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Florida | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Alabama State Board of Cosmetology & Barbering
P.O. Box 301750, Montgomery, AL, 36130
Phone: 3342421918
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | $29,660 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $35,710 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $48,960 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $27,980 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Barber in Alabama?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Barbers in Alabama?
Alabama lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Barbers.
What education do you need to become a Barber in Alabama?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Barber licensure in Alabama.
What is the typical Barber salary in Alabama?
The median annual salary for Barbers in Alabama is 27,850. Salaries range from $23,570 (10th percentile) to $28,620 (90th percentile).
How does the Barber salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
Barbers in Alabama earn 29% below the national median of $38,960, with a state median of 27,850.
How many Barbers work in Alabama?
Alabama employs approximately 90 Barbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Barber license to Alabama from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Barbers in Alabama?
The licensing agency is Alabama State Board of Cosmetology & Barbering. Review agency details at https://www.aboc.alabama.gov/.