Indiana Barbering Licensing & Career Guide
Thinking about becoming a licensed barber in Indiana?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know — from state licensing requirements and training hours to career paths and earning potential. Whether you’re passionate about fades, tapers, straight-razor shaves, or building a strong client base, Summit Salon Academy Kokomo helps prepare you for a successful barbering career.
Indiana Barber License Requirements
To work as a licensed barber in Indiana, students must complete state-approved education and pass the required licensing exams through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency.
IIndiana barber licensing requirements include:
Enrollment in an accredited barbering program
Completion of required training hours
Passing the written and practical state board exams
Summit Salon Academy Kokomo offers approved barbering education designed to prepare students for licensure and real-world barber shop environments.
Required Barbering Training Hours in Indiana
Indiana requires 1,500 training hours to qualify for a barber license.
At Summit Salon Academy Kokomo, barbering students receive hands-on training in:
Men’s cutting and styling techniques
Fades, tapers, and clipper work
Straight-razor shaving and beard services
Sanitation, safety, and infection control
Client consultation and professional communication
Students work with real clients under the supervision of licensed professionals to build confidence and skill before graduation.
Indiana State Board Exams (What to Expect)
After completing your training hours, students must pass:
A written (theory) exam
A practical exam
Summit students receive:
Structured state board prep
Practice exams and review sessions
Educator guidance throughout the process
License Transferability (Moving Out of State)
Barber license transferability varies by state. Some states may require:
Additional training hours
A written or practical exam
Proof of active licensure
Summit’s admissions team helps students understand transfer options early, especially for those planning to work outside Indiana.
Barbering Career Paths in Indiana
A barber license opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities.
Common barbering career paths include:
Barber shop professional
Men’s grooming specialist
Independent barber
Barber shop manager
Shop owner or booth renter
Educator or platform artist
Brand ambassador or content creator
Barbering is a skill-based career with strong demand and long-term growth potential.
Barber Salary Expectations in Indiana
Barber income varies based on experience, location, and services offered.
Factors that influence earning potential include:
Specialization and service pricing
Client retention and referrals
Retail and add-on services
Full-time vs. part-time work
Salary ranges vary and are not guaranteed. Summit Salon Academy does not promise specific income outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Most barbering programs take about 12–18 months to complete, depending on schedule and attendance.
-
Yes. Students gain hands-on experience working with real clients throughout their training
-
Yes. Straight-razor shaving and beard services are part of barbering education.
-
For those who enjoy hands-on work, creativity, and building client relationships, barbering can be a rewarding and in-demand career.