How to become a barber in Connecticut
Connecticut barbers are licensed by the Connecticut Department of Public Health, Practitioner Licensing and Investigations Section (with the Connecticut Examining Board for Barbers, Hairdressers and Cosmeticians). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed barber in Connecticut, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a barber in Connecticut?
- Completed at least the 8th grade or its equivalent
Connecticut barber license requirements
| Licensed by | Connecticut Department of Public Health, Practitioner Licensing and Investigations Section (with the Connecticut Examining Board for Barbers, Hairdressers and Cosmeticians) |
|---|---|
| License name | Barber (statute refers to the occupation as master barber) |
| Education or training | 1,000 hours at a school approved by the board, or a Connecticut Department of Labor-approved apprenticeship |
| Exam | Connecticut barber written exam administered by Prometric, offered in English and Spanish. |
| License term | 2 years; expires per CGS 19a-88 |
| Continuing education | None required; DPH's list of license types with continuing education requirements does not include this license, and the statute sets none. |
| Reciprocity | DPH can license holders of a current barber license from another state, D.C. or U.S. territory issued after completing an education program and passing an exam, with license verifications sent from every jurisdiction where licensed. |
How much does it cost?
| Application fee | $100 |
|---|---|
| Renewal fee (every 2 years) | $100 |
| Application based on out-of-state license | $100 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a barber in Connecticut
- Complete 1,000 hours at an approved barber school or a Department of Labor apprenticeship
- Have your school send the affidavit of hours directly to DPH
- Apply online through eLicense with a photo and $100 fee
- Pass the Prometric barber exam
- Receive your license from DPH
- Renew every 2 years
Apply on the official Connecticut site
How do you check a barber's license in Connecticut?
- Search the name or license number on the official Connecticut barber license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.