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Verified by SC Board of Personal Care

Barber Licensing in South Carolina

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for barber in South Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State-approved exam

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Barber in South Carolina

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Register with licensing agency
  • Education: Varies by state board
  • Examination: State-approved exam
  • Application Fee: See agency

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    SC Board of Barber Examiners

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $37,300 median (4% below national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #32 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in South Carolina

With a median salary of 37,300, Barbers in South Carolina earn 4% below the national median of $38,960. South Carolina ranks #32 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

Median annual salary

$37,300

Hourly estimate

$17.93
4% below national median

Difference: -$1,660

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$19,490
  • P2525th percentile$28,440
  • P50Median$37,300
  • P7575th percentile$49,500
  • P9090th percentile$62,950

State vs National Median

State: $37,300
National: $38,960

Total employment: 490 | Annual openings: N/A

Barber Salary Ranking

#32 of 50 statesfor Barber median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Iowa78,480
#2Washington70,750
#3North Carolina64,290
#4Colorado56,690
#5Louisiana49,850

Nearby States Comparison

Barber licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
South Carolina$37,300Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
North Carolina$64,290No educational requirementsNo exam required6-24 months
Georgia$47,630Specific course requiredState exam required6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
South Carolina78HighBoard-specific review required.
North Carolina54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Georgia25LowLimited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply.
  • License status indicator: Active.
  • Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Official Licensing Agency

SC Board of Barber Examiners

110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 201, PO Box 11329, Columbia, SC, 29211-1329

Phone: 8038964588

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in South Carolina

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Cosmetologist$29,120Varies by state board6-24 months
Esthetician$35,810Varies by state board6-24 months
Massage Therapist$62,830Varies by state board6-24 months
Nail Technician$25,980Varies by state board6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Barber in South 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 is the typical Barber salary in South Carolina?

The median annual salary for Barbers in South Carolina is 37,300. Salaries range from $19,490 (10th percentile) to $62,950 (90th percentile).

How does the Barber salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?

Barbers in South Carolina earn 4% below the national median of $38,960, with a state median of 37,300.

How many Barbers work in South Carolina?

South Carolina employs approximately 490 Barbers according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Barber license to South Carolina from another state?

Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Who is the licensing agency for Barbers in South Carolina?

The licensing agency is SC Board of Barber Examiners. Review agency details at http://www.llr.sc.gov/POL/Barber.