Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Personal Care
Barber Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for barber in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Barber in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Tied to business
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: No 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
NC Board of Barber and Electrolysis Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$64,290 median (65% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 64,290, Barbers in North Carolina earn 65% above the national median of $38,960. North Carolina ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$64,290Hourly estimate
$30.9165% above national median
Difference: +$25,330
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationBarber Salary Ranking
#3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $64,290 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $44,760 | Specific course required | Third-party 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 |
| South Carolina | $37,300 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 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. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
NC Board of Barber and Electrolysis Examiners
7001 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC, 27699
Phone: 9198140640
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | $36,140 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $46,120 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $61,670 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $34,810 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Barber in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Barbers.
What education do you need to become a Barber in North Carolina?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Barber licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Barber salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Barbers in North Carolina is 64,290. Salaries range from $41,070 (10th percentile) to $104,700 (90th percentile).
How does the Barber salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Barbers in North Carolina earn 65% above the national median of $38,960, with a state median of 64,290.
How many Barbers work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 250 Barbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Barber license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board of Barber and Electrolysis Examiners. Review agency details at https://barbers.nc.gov/.