Education - Barbers
Public/Private Barbers Schools
In Maryland, barber schools are regulated by other state entities. The role of the Board of Barbers in you opening your school is to review and approve the curriculum that you plan to teach.
You will need to start the process with MHEC (Maryland Higher Education Commission) 410-767-3300 to open a Private Career School.
- Maryland State Department of Education — for public schools
- Maryland Higher Education Commission — for private schools
The document below outlines the approval process for Private Career Schools (PCS) as managed by the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC). It provides guidance on the steps required for a school to receive authorization to operate, including submission of required documentation, curriculum review, and compliance with state regulations. While the Board of Barbers oversees the curriculum and training standards for barbering programs, the PCS approval process itself is an MHEC responsibility, and schools must adhere to MHEC’s requirements in order to receive and maintain their official approval. This webpage serves as a resource for schools seeking to understand the necessary procedures and regulatory obligations.
MHEC - Private Career School Approval Process
Please use this Curriculum Review Checklist for Barber Schools as a guide.
There is no continuing education requirement to renew a barber license.
Apprenticeships
View Barber Apprenticeship PowerPoint
Effective October 1, 2021, with the passage of House Bill 1021 - Business Occupations and Professions - Barbers - Additional Apprentices’- Three apprentices’ may work under the supervision of a licensed Master Barber. This change only affects the Board of Barbers.
- Apprentice Barber: Sponsored by a Master Barber. Allowed to a two-year original
license and one two-year renewal. Must complete 2,250 hours of training with at least 30
hours per week. The maximum number of hours accepted per month is 240 hours.
- Apprentice Limited Barberstylist: Sponsored by a Master Barber. Allowed a two-year original license and one two-year renewal. Must complete 1,650 hours of training with at least 30 hours per week. The maximum number of hours accepted per month is 240 hours.
The Board of Barbers supports two apprenticeships. The individual registering for the apprenticeship must be at least 16 years old. A sponsor, using their registration number and password, may certify monthly apprentice training below:
Sponsor Certifications for Apprentice Training
All apprentices must apply online for a permit to practice. Additionally,before an online application will be processed, sponsors must complete and return a sponsor jot form .
HB-1547 Licensing Requirements
Beginning January 1, 2026, all applicants for an original license and all licensees renewing a license must complete a one-hour domestic violence awareness training course as required by HB 1547 (2025). This training must be completed through a Maryland Board-approved provider. Courses completed outside of the approved provider list will not be accepted.
You can find more information as well as the full bill text on the Maryland General Assembly website.