There are many reasons someone might want to become a barber in Hawaii. For one, barbers in Hawaii enjoy a high level of job security. The state’s warm climate and strong tourist industry mean that there is always a demand for good haircutting and styling services. In addition, becoming a barber in Hawaii can be an excellent way to build relationships with customers and develop a loyal following. Good barbers are always in high demand, and those who forged strong bonds with their clients often enjoy a steady stream of business. If you think the haircutting business might be right for you, read on to learn more about how to become a barber in Hawaii and how to find a barber school near you.
Barber Schools in Hawaii
State Requirements for Barber Licensing in Hawaii
There are several requirements and steps involved in obtaining a barber’s license in the state of Hawaii:
- Be at least 17 years old
- Complete a barber school program or apprenticeship
- Pass the barber exam
- Renew license every two years
Required Skills and Classes
The state of Hawaii requires at least 1,500 hours of training at a barber school or through an apprenticeship.
The majority of training hours involves practical learning, where you are observing barbering skills or performing skills on mannequins. At least 300 hours are dedicated for theory, or classroom-style, learning.
Below are the types of skills and topics learned during barber theory and practical learning.
Barber Theory
- Haircutting
- Shaving
- Hygiene, sterilization, and sanitation
- Shampooing
- Scalp manipulations
- Hair, skin and scalp analysis
- Beard trimming and designing
- Hair relaxing
- Hair coloring and bleaching
- Perms
- Laws, rules and regulations
Practical Learning
- Haircutting
- Hairstyling
- Hair and scalp treatments
- Reactive Process
- Shaving
- Facials
- Sanitation
- Shop Management
Barber school programs last on average between 10 and 12 months in Hawaii with maximum durations of 18 months and minimum durations of 10 months. Classes and training are typically offered 5 days a week and lasting 6 – 8 hours per day.
State Licensing Exam
Hawaii uses Prometric as the testing agency for the barber exam. You must register with Prometric to take the exam. The tests are offered four times a year, typically in the months of March, June, September, and December. All tests are administered at the Prometric testing site, located at:
354 Uluniu St., Kailua, HI 96734
A passing score of 70% is required to be eligible for a barber license in Hawaii.
How Much Do Barbers Get Paid in Hawaii?
The average annual salary for barbers in Hawaii is $43,370 per year, or $20.85 per hour. This is significantly higher than the national average and one of the highest paying states in the country for barbers.
License renewal:
Barbers must renew their licenses once every two years through the Hawaii MyPVL website. Barbers are required to renew their licenses by December 31 every odd numbered year.
Out-of-state barbers:
Barbers who are licensed in another US state and have been actively practicing as a barber for more than 6 months may be able to practice in Hawaii without attending a barber program or taking the exam. The Hawaii Barbering Board assesses licensure on a case-by-case basis.
Does Hawaii Have Continuing Education Requirements for Barbers?
No. Hawaii doesn’t require any continuing education credits for barbers to maintain their licenses.
Contact Information for Licensing Board: Below is contact details for the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
Website: https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/barber/
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (808) 586-2692
Address: P.O. Box 3469, Honolulu, HI 96801
