How to become a barber in Missouri
Missouri barbers are licensed by the Missouri Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners (Division of Professional Registration). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed barber in Missouri, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a barber in Missouri?
- At least 17 years old
- Free of contagious or infectious diseases (medical examination form required)
- Completion of barber school or apprenticeship
- Pass the board examination
Missouri barber license requirements
| Licensed by | Missouri Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners (Division of Professional Registration) |
|---|---|
| License name | Barber |
| Education or training | At least 1,000 hours over no less than six months in a barber school, or at least 2,000 hours as an apprentice under a licensed barber apprentice supervisor. |
| Exam | Barber examination administered by the board's contracted test administrator (Prov, Inc.); all parts must be passed with a minimum score of 75. |
| License term | Biennial; all licenses expire September 30 of each odd-numbered year. |
| Reciprocity | Barbers licensed for at least one year in another state may apply by reciprocity (affidavit from the other state board, $100 fee, online state law test with 75% passing grade, medical exam form). |
How much does it cost?
| Student barber enrollment application | $25 |
|---|---|
| Apprentice barber registration | $25 |
| Barber certificate of registration (first license) | $20 |
| Barber license renewal | $60 |
| Barber reciprocity | $100 |
| Exam score endorsement | $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 Missouri
- Enroll in a licensed barber school or register as an apprentice (with medical exam form) and pay the fee
- Complete 1,000 school hours (minimum six months) or 2,000 apprentice hours
- Submit the Application for Examination/Temporary Permit to the board
- Register and pay exam fees with Prov, Inc.
- Pass all parts of the barber exam (75 or higher)
- Pay the $20 first-license fee and renew every two years through MOPRO
Apply on the official Missouri site
How do you check a barber's license in Missouri?
- Search the name or license number on the official Missouri 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.