Blog

California requires skilled trade professionals in service sectors like barbering and cosmetology to hold a license. If you’re moving to California from another state, you may be able to take advantage of reciprocity laws that allow for some transfer of training hours or professional licenses.

Here’s what you should know about reciprocity if you’re training to become a barber or cosmetologist, or you already hold a license, and you’re looking to move your operation to The Golden State.

Obtaining a California Barbering or Cosmetology License

Barbers and cosmetologists provide their clients with a variety of personal grooming services, from haircuts, colors, styling, and shaves to nail services and certain skin treatments, depending on the license.

However, professionals in this field must prove their capabilities before obtaining licensure from the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.

You must complete 1,000 hours of approved barber training or apprenticeship before you qualify for a barber license. You must also pass the California Barber Theory Exam, an open-book test consisting of 95 questions (including 10 pretest questions) on the following topics:

• Safety and infection control
• Hair, scalp, and skin analysis
• Client consultation
• Chemical services
• Hairstyling
• Skin care
• Haircutting
• Shaving

You will have two hours to complete this exam, and you must answer at least 70% of the questions correctly to pass.

Cosmetology professionals must also complete 1,000 hours of approved cosmetology training or apprenticeship to qualify for a license and must pass the California Cosmetology Theory Exam. This open-book test features 110 questions (including 10 pretest questions) on topics like:

• Haircutting
• Safety and infection control
• Hairstyling
• Client consultation
• Hair, scalp, skin, and nail analysis
• Makeup
• Chemical services
• Skin care
• Nails
• Hair removal

You will have two hours to complete this exam, and you must answer at least 70% of the questions correctly to pass. Neither of these licenses requires applicants to complete a practical exam.

Transferring Training Credits From Another State

If you trained for a barber or cosmetology license in another state before moving to California, your completed hours may qualify for a California license.

Along with your application for licensure, you must submit the Out of State Applicant School Training Form B, which must be completed by the school you attended and signed and dated by you. The board will review your application and inform you if you qualify to take the state exam.

What if I Already Have a License From Another State?

If you’ve already obtained a barber or cosmetology license in another state, you may be eligible to apply for a California license without taking the state exam. You must first submit a reciprocity application, along with applicable fees.

The board that issued your out-of-state license will have to send a license certification directly to the California board for review (you may not submit it yourself). Your out-of-state license must be valid and in good standing. The board will verify your license and inform you if you are eligible to receive a reciprocal California license.

Preparing for California Licensing Exams

If you’re required to take a California licensing exam, it’s best to choose a state-approved exam prep program that offers self-paced learning via 24/7 online access. Contact RocketCert today to learn more about exam prep courses for California barber and cosmetology licenses.