Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IN Board of Personal Care
Barber Licensing in Indiana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for barber in Indiana, 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 Indiana
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Indiana Professional Licensing Agency • State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$43,590 median (12% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 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 Indiana
With a median salary of 43,590, Barbers in Indiana earn 12% above the national median of $38,960. Indiana ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$43,590Hourly estimate
$20.9612% above national median
Difference: +$4,630
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationBarber Salary Ranking
#15 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana | $43,590 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $29,390 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $46,930 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $48,930 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $36,300 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Illinois | 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
Indiana Professional Licensing Agency • State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners
402 West Washington Street, Room W072, Indianapolis, IN, 46204
Phone: 3172343031
Related Careers in Indiana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | $31,480 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $43,900 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $52,740 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $33,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Barber in Indiana?
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 Indiana?
Indiana lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Barbers.
What education do you need to become a Barber in Indiana?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Barber licensure in Indiana.
What is the typical Barber salary in Indiana?
The median annual salary for Barbers in Indiana is 43,590. Salaries range from $19,070 (10th percentile) to $56,470 (90th percentile).
How does the Barber salary in Indiana compare to the national average?
Barbers in Indiana earn 12% above the national median of $38,960, with a state median of 43,590.
How many Barbers work in Indiana?
Indiana employs approximately 270 Barbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Barber license to Indiana 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 Indiana?
The licensing agency is Indiana Professional Licensing Agency / State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.in.gov/pla/cosmo.htm.