If you're interested in training to become a barber in Montana, you're in the right place! This page provides information about Montana barber schools and the requirements for getting licensed.
You must attend a school that meets any licensure requirements as defined by your state. Most states require that you graduate from an accredited or state-approved school.
Related Beauty Careers
Not sure this is the right fit for you? Learn more about other career options in the beauty industry. Related specializations include:
900 - 1,100 education hours are required to become licensed.
You must renew your license every 2 years.
0 continuing education hours are required to renew your license.
The average salary for barbers is $39,350 nationwide.
There is a predicted 7% job increase for barbers 2022-2032 nationwide.
To become a barber in Montana, you need to complete a 1,100-hour barber training program, pass a written and practical barber exam with a 75% or higher, and for a barber license. In Montana, you can also earn a nonchemical barber license, which involves only 900 training hours and enables you to perform clipper cuts and shaves but not chemical applications.
What To Expect From a Barber Program in Montana
900 - 1,100 Education Hours
Required to earn a barber license
To become a fully licensed barber in Montana—allowing you to perform haircutting, shaving services, and chemical applications—you must complete a 1,100-hour barber school program.
You can expect barber schools in Montana to offer this curriculum:
Haircutting: 185 hours
Shampooing, scalp treatments, and hair: 165 hours
Chemical services: 295 hours
Facial shaving with straight razor: 45 hours
Science related to hair and skin care: 60 hours
Shop management, cleanliness, and business ethics: 75 hours
Additional instruction (at the discretion of the school): 275 hours
For a nonchemical license, the curriculum includes:
Haircutting: 225 hours
Shampooing, scalp treatments, and hair styling: 205 hours
You completed the license application and sent it to the Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists with the above documentation and the $80 license fee.
The barber exam is a critical step in getting your license. You must apply to take the exam with one of the two test-administration entities in Montana, D.L. Roope or Prov. The company sends you a letter or email confirming your registration and test date/location or an opportunity to schedule your test.
On the exam day, you must present a valid photo ID. Expect to take both a 90-minute written exam and a three-hour practical exam to demonstrate your barbering skills. You may have to take the written and practical portions at different times and locations.
You must receive a 75% on each portion to earn your license. If you fail to reach this score on either part, you can apply to retake the exam and pay the $80 fee again. If you fail three times, you must wait 60 days before re-applying.
Can I Apprentice as a Barber in Montana?
No, Montana doesn't allow apprenticeship as a path to earning a barber license.
You can qualify for an out-of-state license with an unencumbered license from another state.
You must:
Be at least 18 years old
Have a high school diploma or equivalent
Pass a board-approved barber exam or graduate from an approved barber school with at least 1,100 hours of academic training as provided in the state's curriculum (or 900 hours for a nonchemical barber license)
You may also be able to apply professional experience earned in other states toward your Montana license if the board determines your experience is similar in scope to the state's requirements.
Your barber license must be renewed every two years, between January 2 and March 1; late renewals are accepted through April 15. The renewal fee is $80, and there's an additional $80 fee (for a total of $160) for late renewal. No continuing education is required for renewal, although staying current on laws, trends, and techniques is beneficial.
Barber Salary and Projected Job Growth in Montana
$39,350
Average yearly salary for barbers nationwide
Salary and job growth data specific to Montana barbers aren't available. But the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the average annual salary for barbers nationwide is $39,350, or $18.92 per hour, as of May 2022.
Montana Barber Association This state chapter of the American Barber Association offers members connections to fellow professionals, information to grow their businesses, opportunities to participate in events and community service, professional recognition, access to continuing education, and more.
Montana Cosmetologists & Barbering Club This private, members-only Facebook group is for licensed barbers and cosmetologists in Montana to share tips and career opportunities and support each other in the profession.
