Alaska Hair Braiding Schools and Requirements

To become a hair braider in Alaska, you will likely need to complete hair braiding training and get a hair braiding license. However, the state makes exceptions for those in small communities and in a few other circumstances. Keep reading to learn more details about hair braiding school in Alaska!

Browse our directory of hair braiding schools in Alaska, or skip ahead to learn about the state's hair braiding licensing requirements and job outlook.

How to Become a Hair Braider in Alaska

Alaska hair braiders must complete 35 training hours, apply for a license, and pay $330 in fees as of 2023. Training can occur at a hair braiding school or apprenticeship.

Whether you train as a hair braider in a school or as an apprentice, you must go through 35 training hours. Your program should include:

• 5 hours of hair and scalp analysis
• 5 hours of relevant illnesses and disorders
• 5 hours of sanitation
• 5 hours of relevant state law
• 15 hours of hair braiding skills

Hair braiding apprenticeships can occur under a licensed hair braider, hairdresser, or hairdressing instructor. The trainer must have worked in the field for at least one year.

If you've already worked as a licensed hair braider, hairdresser, or cosmetologist with the ability to do hair, you can send paperwork to your previous state. That way, you can see if Alaska requires you to complete any additional training.

What Can Hair Braiders in Alaska Do?

Alaska hair braiders can work with natural hair, fibers, extensions, and hair attached by braiding alone. No chemicals or cutting of actual hair are allowed. Working with wigs is also not covered by the license.

If you want to work with chemicals or be allowed to cut hair, you need a hairdresser license.

READ MORE: Learn About Hair Schools in Alaska

What Exceptions Are There for Alaska Hair Braiding Rules?

You don't need to get a license to be a hair braider in Alaska if you live in specific communities or have particular other credentials. Exceptions to hair braiding license rules include:

• Having a Hairdresser, Barber, or Non-Chemical Barber License
• Living in a Small Community: Licensure isn't needed if you live in a community with less than 1,000 people farther than 25 miles away from a place with more than 1,000 people; you may not use chemicals unavailable to the public in this circumstance.
• Practicing Only in Particular Circumstances: If you work only in healthcare facilities with clients with mobility challenges, at charitable events, or at demonstrations or workshops, you don't need a hair braiding license.
• Working in Healthcare: Licensed healthcare professionals don't need a braiding license to perform these treatments.

READ MORE: Learn More About Alaska Cosmetology School

Alaska Hair Braider Salary

As of 2023, ZipRecruiter reports that hair braiders in Alaska earn about $21,000 to $118,000 per year, averaging $44,782 ($22 per hour). Workplace, location, years of work, and skill level all factor into how much you may earn. Being self-employed will also affect how much you can make, and ZipRecruiter doesn't report much on those pay rates. Talk to other braiders to find out more about your personal pay potential.

Contact the Alaska State Board of Cosmetology