How to become a barber in Vermont
Vermont barbers are licensed by the Vermont Secretary of State, Office of Professional Regulation (Barbers & Cosmetologists, advisor model). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed barber in Vermont, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a barber in Vermont?
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
- Completion of approved school hours or an OPR-approved apprenticeship
- Pass written and practical examinations recognized by the Director
Vermont barber license requirements
| Licensed by | Vermont Secretary of State, Office of Professional Regulation (Barbers & Cosmetologists, advisor model) |
|---|---|
| License name | Barber |
| Education or training | 750 school hours, or an OPR-approved apprenticeship of 1,125 hours under a Vermont-licensed supervisor (apprenticeship license required first). Licensed cosmetologists may cross over with 150 school hours or a 300-hour crossover apprenticeship. |
| Exam | Written (theory) and practical barbering examinations recognized by the Director; after OPR approves you to sit, you register with the national exam provider (Prov, per OPR as of November 1, 2023), or a licensed school approved as a testing site may administer them. |
| License term | Two years (fixed biennial period; renews September 30 of even years) |
| Continuing education | OPR renewal instructions require continuing education (24 credits per cycle) only for instructors; none is listed for regular licensees. |
| Reciprocity | Licensure by endorsement without exam if your other-state license has substantially equal requirements, or materially less rigorous ones plus 1,500 documented practice hours in at least one year; Fast Track Endorsement for those licensed in good standing elsewhere for 3+ years. |
How much does it cost?
| Application fee (non-refundable) | $120 |
|---|---|
| Biennial renewal fee | $155 |
| Apprentice license application | $50 |
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 Vermont
- Earn a high school diploma or GED
- Complete the required school hours, or apply for an apprentice license and complete an approved apprenticeship
- Submit an online application through OPR Online Services and pay the fee
- Upload diploma and proof of training hours (verification of education or apprentice verification form)
- Receive OPR's approved-to-sit email and register for the written and practical exams
- Pass both exams and receive your license
- Renew online every two years
Apply on the official Vermont site
How do you check a barber's license in Vermont?
- Search the name or license number on the official Vermont 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.