How to become a barber in Indiana
Indiana barbers are licensed by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA), State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed barber in Indiana, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a barber in Indiana?
- At least 18 years old, or 17 and a high school graduate (or equivalent)
- Graduate of a barber program at a beauty culture school
Indiana barber license requirements
| Licensed by | Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA), State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners |
|---|---|
| License name | Barber |
| Education or training | 1,500 hours in a barber program at an Indiana beauty culture school, or completion of a Department of Labor registered apprenticeship program. |
| Exam | Written licensing exam administered by PSI; register with PSI after the board approves your application, then upload your pass notice. |
| License term | 4 years; licenses expire on a date set by the PLA and every four years after that. |
| Continuing education | No continuing education is required; the board's continuing education rules (820 IAC Article 6) are repealed. |
| Reciprocity | Indiana grants licensure by reciprocity if your current out-of-state license came from a jurisdiction with substantially equal requirements (education hours, or hours plus licensed practice, and at least 70% passing on written and practical exams); applicants from places that issue no license may seek a supervised provisional license. |
How much does it cost?
| Individual beauty culture license application fee (nonrefundable) | $40.00 |
|---|---|
| Renewal fee | $40.00 |
| Reinstatement fee (expired more than 3 years) | $80.00 |
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 Indiana
- Meet the age and education requirements and enroll in an Indiana-approved beauty culture school (barber program)
- Complete 1,500 hours (or a Department of Labor registered apprenticeship)
- Have your school complete the Beauty Culture Education Certification form
- Pass the written exam through PSI
- Apply online through MyLicense One, uploading your education certificate and exam pass notice, and pay the $40 fee
- Renew every four years for $40
Apply on the official Indiana site
How do you check a barber's license in Indiana?
- Search the name or license number on the official Indiana 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.