LicenseCompass

Barber License in Kentucky

Quick Answer

To become a licensed barber in Kentucky, you need a high school diploma/GED, 1,500 hours of barber school, and must pass the state board exam. No CE required. No criminal record prohibitions.

Education Required
1500 hours
Exam
Kentucky State Board Exam
Total Cost
$275 (est.)
Timeline
9-12 months (including barber school)
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every Biennial

Requirements

Barber license in Kentucky

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
State exam required
Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
Continuing Education
No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
Expedited processing is available for military and spouses

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$50
Exam Fee
$75
Renewal Fee
$50
Total Estimated Cost
$275

Licensing Agency

Commonwealth of Kentucky~Board of Barbering

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Barber license in Kentucky. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$50
Exam FeeEst.$75
Total Estimated Cost$125

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Kentucky licensing board.

Barber Salary in Kentucky

Entry Level

$26,460

Median

$48,930

Experienced

$66,180

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Barber in Kentucky.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    No criminal record prohibitions

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    State exam required — Kentucky State Board Exam

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$50.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 9-12 months (including barber school).

Barber Licensing in Kentucky: What to Know

Kentucky requires a high school diploma or GED plus 1,500 hours in an accredited or licensed school of barbering. The state board exam covers cutting, styling, arranging hair, shaves, massages, and use of caustic/cosmetic chemicals. No CE required for renewal. No criminal record prohibitions. Kentucky offers expedited processing for military and spouses. The Board of Barbering oversees licensing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Barber license cost in Kentucky?
The estimated total cost is $275, including application fees, exam fees ($75), and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Barber license in Kentucky?
The process typically takes 9-12 months (including barber school), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Barber license in Kentucky?
You need to pass the Kentucky State Board Exam. State exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Barber requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.