HowToGetLicensed

Barber License: California vs North Carolina

Thinking about getting your barber license? Here's how California and North Carolina compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California North Carolina
Education Hours 1500 hours 1528 hours
Exam California Barber Exam (Written and Practical) North Carolina Barber Exam (Written and Practical)
Application Fee $50 $55
Exam Fee $75 $85
Total Estimated Cost $11,625 - $12,625 $9,640 - $10,640
Renewal Period Every 2 years Every 1 year
CE Hours 0 hours 0 hours
Renewal Fee $50 $55

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: North Carolina is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $9,640-$10,640 compared to $11,625-$12,625.

Fewer education hours: California requires 1500 hours of pre-license education, compared to 1528 hours in North Carolina.

Full State Guides

Compare barber requirements across all 50 states →