How to Become a Barber in Utah

Are you passionate about hairstyling and grooming? Do you enjoy working with people and want to turn that passion into a career? Becoming a barber in Utah could be the perfect path for you. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or considering a career change, the journey to becoming a licensed barber in Utah can be an exciting one.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from education and training to obtaining your barbering license. Ready to take the first step toward a career in the beauty industry? Let’s get started!

What is Barbering?

First, anyone who is considering entering the field must have a complete understanding of exactly what barbering is. Every day, barbers provide personalized services while maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety in their workspace. In addition to cutting hair, barbers are licensed to shampoo, color, perm, and style clients’ hair, and also trim, shave, and style facial hair. Barbers can also focus on a specific specialization, such as textured hair cutting, intricate beard trimming, or complex fades. Many barbers also provide hot wax treatments and scalp therapies, and successful barbers must keep up with current trends in hairstyling and shaving to continuously improve haircutting skills and techniques. 

Complete a 1000-Hour Utah Barber Training Program

The first thing you need to do is to enroll in and successfully complete a program. The Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) requires 1,000 hours of learning and hands-on training. At Renaissance Academie, you’ll study a variety of barber training subjects, such as:

• History of Barbering
• Barber Equipment
• Hair, Skin, and Scalp Properties
• Sanitation, Disinfection, and Sterilization
• Personal, Client, and Shop Safety
• Professional Image and Ethics
• Analysis of Hair and Scalp
• Basic Hairstyling and Hair Cutting
• Shaving and Razor Cutting
• Legal Issues and Laws
• Barber Examination Review, and more.

A prospective barber also has the option of obtaining their education by completing an apprenticeship. Through 1,250 hours of one-on-one training under the supervision of a licensed barber instructor. During the apprenticeship, the instructor must display a sign that reads “Apprentice in Training” at the workstation and submit a daily record of your theory and practical hours of instruction to DOPL.

Take the Written Theory and Practical Exam

After completing the educational requirements, it is time to take the licensing exams. You can register directly with the vendor, PSI Services, and pay the fee of $174 ($96 for the written and $98 for the practical) before scheduling the date, time, and location of the exam. You’ll be given 100 minutes to complete the practical exam, where you will do the following:

• Set Up and Client Protection 
• Shaving with a Straight Razor 
• Haircutting
• Candidate Summary and Final Cleanup.

The written theory portion of the exam is a 90-minute, multiple-choice test that covers:

• Scientific Concepts
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Skin Histology
• Haircutting and Styling
• Draping Procedures
• Facial and Shaving Services
• Hair Care Services
• Scalp and Hair Analysis, and more.

Remember to bring all necessary tools to the exam and to practice your techniques ahead of time. It is important to stay calm and focused, so be sure to familiarize yourself with exam formats, study the key concepts that will be covered, and give yourself plenty of time to prepare. You’ll need to pass both portions of the exam with a score of 75% or higher, and exam results are results will be sent to the Utah Division within three business days.

Submit Your License Application

Now that you have passed your exams, you must submit your application for licensing. Be sure to attach all supporting documents, include the $60 application fee, complete the Verification of Graduation section, and send your application to the DOPL.

Begin Your New Career

Finally, the time has come to secure your first job as a barber, so apply to various barbershops or other places of employment such as spas, hotels, and resorts. There are plenty of options to consider, so take the time to find a position where you can fine-tune your skills and gain experience. Landing your first job is exciting, and you need to be ready. Make sure to create a strong resume, and go into each interview fully prepared. It is a good idea to talk to those who are currently in the barbering business and practice common questions and answers that you might be asked during the interview. Most of all, be confident about the skills that you have and the value that you will bring to your new position as a barber.

Renew Your License Every Two Years

One of the most important things to remember is that you need to renew your license by September 30th  of odd years. Always make sure that your address is current with the DOPL so that they can send important renewal materials and reminders so you don’t miss any deadlines. Keep in mind that there will be a fee of $52 along with the renewal. 

Becoming a barber can be exciting, and each step brings you closer to your new career. Remember to stay persistent and positive during the journey, and always be sure to keep evolving within the industry. There are many networking opportunities, so don’t forget to attend workshops and pursue professional development. This is the best way to stay on top of the latest barbering trends and techniques that will help you stand out as a top barber. 

The Renaissance Academie Barbering Program

At Renaissance Academie, we know just how important a well-rounded education is to your career aspirations. Our small class sizes can ensure that you are getting the one-on-one support that you need and deserve, and we offer flexible options so that your training always fits into your schedule. Additionally, we offer training for in-demand skills and instruction on selling and marketing your technical skills so that you can enter the field fully prepared to build a clientele. Ready to begin the journey of a barbering career? Contact us today to get started.