Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Personal Care
Barber Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for barber in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Barber in Illinois
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$36,300 median (7% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#37 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 Illinois
With a median salary of 36,300, Barbers in Illinois earn 7% below the national median of $38,960. Illinois ranks #37 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,451Median annual salary
$36,300Hourly estimate
$17.457% below national median
Difference: -$2,660
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationBarber Salary Ranking
#37 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $36,300 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $34,360 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $78,480 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $44,390 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $48,930 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $43,590 | Specific course 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | $34,800 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $38,580 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $60,640 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $34,520 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Barber in Illinois?
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 Illinois?
Illinois lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Barbers.
What education do you need to become a Barber in Illinois?
The board typically expects Degree required for Barber licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Barber salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Barbers in Illinois is 36,300. Salaries range from $32,320 (10th percentile) to $68,490 (90th percentile).
How does the Barber salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Barbers in Illinois earn 7% below the national median of $38,960, with a state median of 36,300.
How many Barbers work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 290 Barbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Barber license to Illinois from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Barbers in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.