South Carolina Board of Barber Examiners

Use the applications for more information as found on the website under applications and forms.

Registered Barber/Master Hair Care Specialist

1. Possesses at least a 9^th grade education or its equivalent;
2. Submit a student permit application along with required documents (review application).
3. Pay the prescribed fee of $35.
4. Successfully complete 1,500 hours in a barber college/school approved by the Board or 1,920 hours of on-the-job training in a licensed barbershop under the supervision of a licensed barber instructor.
5. Upon completion of the required hours, you will need to register for and pass the National Interstate Council (NIC) examination (theory and practical).

Barber Instructor

1. You must be licensed for three years as a registered barber or master hair care specialist.
2. One year of apprenticeship  does not count towards years of licensure.
3. Register for and pass the National Interstate Council (NIC) examination (theory and practical).

Barber Assistant- Shampoo/Manicurist 

1. Be at least 16 years old.
2. Submit student permit application along with required documents(review application).
3. Pay the prescribed fee of $35.
4. Complete 240 hours of training in shampooing and manicures.
5. Upon completion of the required hours, you must register for and pass the Barber Assistant Exam.

Reciprocity Requirements

1. Possesses at least a 9th grade education or its equivalent.
2. Submit reciprocity application along with required documents (review application).
3. Have the state where you are currently licensed mail or email (Boardinfo@llr.sc.gov) a verification of licensure that displays the type of examination passed, status of license, license number, and  disciplinary status if applicable.
4. South Carolina does not accept “Apprentice” licenses.
5. All applicants must have passed the National Interstate Council (NIC) examination (theory and practical). If you didn’t pass the NIC examination , you will be required to test in South Carolina before a license can be issued.

Hair Braider

1. Submit hair braider registration application along with required documents (review application).
2. Pay the prescribed fee of $25.
3. Complete a six (6) hour online course on health and sanitation.
4. Upon completion of the training course, you must pass the online exam with a 70%.

Barbershop

1. Submit a completed application.
2. Pay the prescribed fee of $250.
3. Submit documented proof of the federal tax identification number (or EIN).
4. Designate a licensed registered barber, master hair care specialist or barber instructor as the manager of the barbershop who will be responsible for compliance with Barber statutes and regulations.
5. License will issued upon a satisfactory inspection.

Barber College/School

1. Submit a completed application along with required documents (review application).
   1. Board appearance is required
2. Pay the prescribed fee $300.
3. Supply a listing of current full/part-time instructors(include name , license number, and specify those who are backups).
4. Successfully pass the preliminary and final inspections after the Board appearance.