Whether you're a recent high school grad or looking for a professional change of pace, a barber school in Rhode Island offers the path toward a growing field where you can make clients look and feel their best. And while the best barber schools introduce the ins and outs of the profession, they also lean into the essential business skills you'll need when running your own shop.
Throughout this page, we explore how to become a barber in Rhode Island, what you can expect from a barber program, and how to earn and maintain your license. Keep reading to learn more about this vital career in cosmetology!
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.
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1,000 education hours or a 2 year apprenticeship 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 in Rhode Island is $48,092.
There is a predicted 11% job increase for barbers between 2021-2031 nationally.
If you want a career where you can work with your hands while developing strong professional relationships with your client base, becoming a barber in Rhode Island is a solid option. But what does it take to jump-start a barbering career?
One straightforward option is tackling an accredited, Rhode Island-based barbering program. From skincare and haircuts to state regulations and entrepreneurial know-how, standout Rhode Island barber schools allow you to develop vital knowledge and hone skills in a safe environment.
You must be 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED
Enroll and complete a 1,000-hour state-approved barber program
Pass Rhode Island's barber license exam
Pay all relevant fees
Renew your barber license every two years
What to Expect From a Barber Program in Rhode Island
1,500 Education Hours
Required to earn a barbering license
Barber and cosmetology schools in Rhode Island must hold a license from the state's Department of Health. Throughout a 1,000-hour barber program, you gain the theoretical knowledge and technical skills needed for the state's licensing exam and begin your barbering career.
Barber programs can vary, with classes possibly including (but not limited to):
Facial Massage
Hair Coloring
Haircutting
Honing and Stropping
Mustaches and Beards
Relaxing and perming
Sanitation, Sterilization, and Bacteriology
Shaving
Alongside developing the technical skills, the best barbering programs instill business and soft skills—communication, problem-solving, time management, and leadership—essential to building a dedicated client base and managing your barbershop.
After completing a state-approved barber education program, it's time to secure your barber license.
Rhode Island Barber Licensing Requirements
After spending 1,000 hours studying and honing your barbering skills, the state's licensing exam is the final step in earning your license. Thankfully, the best barber programs leave you uniquely prepared to ace the test, secure your license, and begin your career. You must earn a score of at least 70% on both exams to pass. When scheduling the exam, test-takers pay a $75 fee.
Like other states, test-takers complete both a written and hands-on practical exam. We break down the test sections below.
Barber Theory Examination:
You have 90 minutes to complete this computer-based, multiple-choice exam. Show up early to check in. The test covers:
Anatomy
Client consults
Facial treatments
Hairstyling
Health and safety
Health issues of the skin and scalp
Infection control
Rhode Island rules and regulations
Shaving
Tools
Hands-On Practical Exam:
The practical exam allows you to show off the technical skills learned during your barber program. Be ready to showcase your knowledge of the following:
Preparation and client consultation
Haircutting
Basic facial
Display health and safety knowledge
Cleanup
You can expect to receive your test scores immediately after completing the exam. For those who fall short of a passing grade, a thorough diagnostic report breaks down test performance, letting test-takers know where they fell short.
Can I Apprentice as a Barber in Rhode Island?
2 Year Apprenticeship
Required to earn a barber license
Yes, you can complete a barber apprenticeship in Rhode Island. An apprenticeship provides a solid option if you prefer to develop your skills in a hands-on professional setting. Here's what you need to know:
Find a licensed barber willing to take you on as an apprentice.
Complete two years of full-time work as a barber apprentice.
After two years of supervised work, your mentor must submit a form verifying training.
Apply for licensure.
Rhode Island Barber License Reciprocity
Reciprocity is available if you hold a barber license outside of Rhode Island. Within Rhode Island's barber license application is an interstate verification form. You must complete this section of the application and include your active license number and information regarding barber education. You must also provide proof of passing both written and practical licensing examinations.
Barber License Renewal in Rhode Island
2 Years
License renewal period
0 Hours
Continuing education required
After securing your Rhode Island barbering license, you must renew it every two years. This biannual license expires on Sept. 30th—you can renew online and must pay a $25 renewal fee.
While Rhode Island doesn't require continuing education for license renewal, tackling additional technical training can enhance your skills and earning potential. Crossover programs provide a great way to broaden skills.
Barber Salary and Projected Job Growth in Rhode Island
$48,092
Average yearly salary for barbers in Rhode Island
According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual barber salary in Rhode Island exceeds $48,000, or about $23 per hour. This hourly rate is considerably higher than the national numbers—according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean wage for barbers is about $18.92 per hour. Additionally, the BLS projects that the number of US barbers could grow by as much as 8% by 2031.
Contact the Rhode Island Board of Barbering, Hairdressing and Cosmetology
Rhode Island Board of Barbering, Hairdressing and Cosmetology
Barbering FAQs Review answers to some of our readers most pressing questions about barber education and careers.
Rhode Island Department of Health Rhode Island's Department of Health is your resource for information about licensing requirements, regulations, and any state barbering updates.
