Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Personal Care
Barber Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for barber in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division of Regulatory Boards • Division of Regulatory Boards
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$31,230 median (20% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#45 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 31,230, Barbers in Tennessee earn 20% below the national median of $38,960. Tennessee ranks #45 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$31,230Hourly estimate
$15.0120% below national median
Difference: -$7,730
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationBarber Salary Ranking
#45 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $31,230 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $48,930 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $44,760 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $64,290 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $47,630 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $27,850 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $24,110 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $24,700 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $44,390 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 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. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 54 | Low | 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. |
| Alabama | 60 | Medium | 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
Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division of Regulatory Boards • Division of Regulatory Boards
Davy Crockett Tower 4th Floor, 500 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN, 37243
Phone: 6157412515
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | $29,170 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $36,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $49,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $30,030 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Barber in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Barbers.
What education do you need to become a Barber in Tennessee?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Barber licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Barber salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Barbers in Tennessee is 31,230. Salaries range from $20,110 (10th percentile) to $51,610 (90th percentile).
How does the Barber salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Barbers in Tennessee earn 20% below the national median of $38,960, with a state median of 31,230.
How many Barbers work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 280 Barbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Barber license to Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Commerce and Insurance / Division of Regulatory Boards / Division of Regulatory Boards.