Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Personal Care
Barber Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for barber in West Virginia, 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 West Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
BARBERS & COSMETOLOGISTS
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$34,360 median (12% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#39 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 34,360, Barbers in West Virginia earn 12% below the national median of $38,960. West Virginia ranks #39 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$34,360Hourly estimate
$16.5212% below national median
Difference: -$4,600
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationBarber Salary Ranking
#39 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $34,360 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $42,570 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $46,530 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $44,760 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $48,930 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $46,930 | Specific course 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 60 | 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. |
| Ohio | 56 | 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
BARBERS & COSMETOLOGISTS
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3045582924
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | $31,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $37,750 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $42,730 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $36,020 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Barber in West Virginia?
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 West Virginia?
West Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Barbers.
What education do you need to become a Barber in West Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Barber licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Barber salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Barbers in West Virginia is 34,360. Salaries range from $22,840 (10th percentile) to $58,990 (90th percentile).
How does the Barber salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Barbers in West Virginia earn 12% below the national median of $38,960, with a state median of 34,360.
How many Barbers work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 40 Barbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Barber license to West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is BARBERS & COSMETOLOGISTS. Review agency details at http://www.wvbbc.com/.