Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Personal Care
Barber Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for barber in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Barber in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Tied to business
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Department of Inspections & Appeals • About the Board of Barbering & Cosmetology Arts & Sciences
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$78,480 median (101% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 78,480, Barbers in Iowa earn 101% above the national median of $38,960. Iowa ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$78,480Hourly estimate
$37.73101% above national median
Difference: +$39,520
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationBarber Salary Ranking
#1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $78,480 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $37,250 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $34,360 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $36,300 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $44,390 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $38,960 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $38,960 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | 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. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Iowa Department of Inspections & Appeals • About the Board of Barbering & Cosmetology Arts & Sciences
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50319-0075
Phone: 5152810254
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | $37,850 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $44,400 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $62,400 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $38,530 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Barber in Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Iowa lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Barbers.
What education do you need to become a Barber in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Barber licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Barber salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Barbers in Iowa is 78,480. Salaries range from $33,450 (10th percentile) to $79,660 (90th percentile).
How does the Barber salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Barbers in Iowa earn 101% above the national median of $38,960, with a state median of 78,480.
How many Barbers work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 140 Barbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Barber license to Iowa 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 Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Department of Inspections & Appeals / About the Board of Barbering & Cosmetology Arts & Sciences. Review agency details at https://dial.iowa.gov/about/boards/barbering-cosmetology.