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Barber Schools in South Dakota

The barbering profession offers a wide range of career options for those who are passionate about hair and styling. Barber schools in South Dakota can provide you with the training and education you need to start your career in this exciting field.

There are a variety of barbering programs available at different schools, so it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you. Some programs may focus on cosmetology, while others may offer more specialized training in barbering.

No matter which program you choose, you can expect to learn about the latest hair cutting and styling techniques. You’ll also gain a strong understanding of the business side of the profession, including how to run a successful barber shop.

After completing a barbering program, you’ll be prepared to take the state licensing exam. Once you pass the exam and become licensed, you’ll be ready to start your career as a professional barber.

Barber Schools in South Dakota

State Requirements for Barber Licensing­ in South Dakota

To work as a barber in South Dakota, you must first meet the following criteria and complete the described steps:

  • Enroll in a barber school
  • Complete 1,500 hours of education
  • Pass the NIC Barber Theory Exam and Practical Exam
  • Renew license every year by June 30

How Much Do South Dakota Barber Programs Cost?

The cost of barber school in South Dakota can range from $8,000 – $12,000 depending on the school. Students in barber school must also pay for a kit and all necessary equipment, as well as tuition, textbooks, study guides, and any fees connected with taking the licensure examination.

You might be eligible for financial aid to help pay for your barber school education, such as Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), scholarships from the institution you choose, Pell Grants, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, VA benefits and direct subsidized loans. To see if you qualify for any of these programs, just contact the financial aid office at the barber school you’d like to attend.

Required Skills and Classes

The Barbers in South Dakota must first attend an accredited barber school and complete 1,500 hours of education at the school. 300 hours of training must be devoted to theory (classroom instruction and demonstrations) and the remaining 1,200 hours are spent on practical work. Barber schools must offer a minimum number of hours in the following barber education categories:

  • Infection Control, Implements and Equipment, Blood Exposure – 100 hours
  • Barbershop Management and South Dakota Laws and Rules – 70 hours
  • Scientific fundamentals – 220 hours
  • Hair Design, Scalp Care, Shampooing, Haircutting and Hairstyling – 430 hours
  • Chemical hair services – 280 hours
  • Shaving – 130 hours
  • Skin Related Care – 70 hours

Students cannot complete more than 8 hours of education in a single day. Theory hours can be spent in an online classroom format as long as the barber school meets specific teaching regulations outlined by the South Dakota State Legislature.

State Licensing Exams

Barbers must pass both the Theory Exam and the Practical exam to be eligible for licensure in South Dakota.

Theory

South Dakota uses the NIC barber Theory exam, which consists of 100 multiple choice questions that must be completed in 90 minutes. The exam will consist of concepts learned during barber school including but not limited to:

  • Men’s and Women’s haircutting
  • Infection Control
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Tools, Implements and Equipment
  • Electricity and Light
  • Hair and Scalp
  • Skin Histology
  • Draping Procedures
  • Chemistry of Barbering Products and Solutions
  • Chemical Services
  • Shaving Procedures
  • Facial Hair Design

Practical

Barbers must also pass a practical exam in which candidates must perform barbering services in front of a judge. The contents of the practical exam are outlined by the South Dakota Board of Barber Examiners. Your time spent on practical learning during barber school will help prepare you for the practical exam. Practicing and refining your skills on mannequins and models will help prepare you for the practical exam.

Upon passing both the Theory and Practical barber exams, you are eligible to apply for a barber license in South Dakota. A barber license application fee of $100 is required.

How Much Do Barbers Get Paid in South Dakota?

The average salary for barbers in  South Dakota according to the BLS is $33,870 per year and $16.28 per hour.

Continuing Education Requirements

There are 0 required continuing education hours for licensed barbers in South Dakota.

How Do I Renew My South Dakota Barber License?

Barber licenses must be renewed annually by June 30 in order to stay current. There is an annual renewal fee of $75 that can be paid online.

Contact Information for Licensing Board

Below is contact information for the South Dakota Board of Barber Examiners:

Website: https://dlr.sd.gov/barber/default.aspx
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (605) 773-6193
Address: 217 W. Missouri Ave.
Pierre, SD  57501