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Idaho Barber — Requirements & Free Practice

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Barber

Individual license to practice barbering without chemical hair services.

Licensing authority: Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board · Application information

Initial licensure by examination after apprenticeship

All of the following:

Applicable Apprenticeship Recognition
67-9412 requires recognition of an applicable Board- or United States Department of Labor-adopted apprenticeship, with the same examination passing score and other nontraining criteria as ordinary applicants.
Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Professional Education
Complete at least 1,800 apprentice hours covering all barbering aspects; complete within 57 weeks under IDAPA 24.28.01.150.02.a(i).
Supervision
Registered apprenticeship under a licensed instructor; daily work and instruction records, subject to 54-5817.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Additional license for a currently licensed cosmetologist

All of the following:

Additional Training
Complete 100 hours in barber theory, haircuts, and shaving under IDAPA 24.28.01.100.02; examinations remain required by 54-5810(1)(c).
Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Existing License
Hold a current cosmetologist license.
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Endorsement based on equivalent original licensing standards
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Decision
Board or its agent evaluates the endorsement application under 54-5816.
Existing Credential
Hold a certificate of qualification or license from the proper authority of another United States jurisdiction or a foreign country.
General Qualifications
Meet 54-5810(1)(a), (b), and (d); submit the application and required fees.
Lower Ranked Bulletin
Idaho CIB page 2 says "Candidates seeking to be licensed in the State of Idaho must successfully complete the written examination and the practical examination." The controlling endorsement statute expressly permits issuance "without examination"; this bulletin demand is recorded as an applicant-facing condition, not an examination leaf.
Qualification Evidence
Official documentation that the original licensing or certification standards were no lower than the standards in Title 54 Chapter 58.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement based on recent practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Decision
Board or its agent evaluates the endorsement application under 54-5816.
Existing Credential
Hold a certificate of qualification or license from the proper authority of another United States jurisdiction or a foreign country.
General Qualifications
Meet 54-5810(1)(a), (b), and (d); submit the application and required fees.
Lower Ranked Bulletin
Idaho CIB page 2 says "Candidates seeking to be licensed in the State of Idaho must successfully complete the written examination and the practical examination." The controlling endorsement statute expressly permits issuance "without examination"; this bulletin demand is recorded as an applicant-facing condition, not an examination leaf.
Qualification Evidence
Official documentation of practice in the requested occupation for at least one of the last three years immediately preceding application.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Full unrestricted licensure after successful conditional licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Completion
Successfully complete the one-year probationary conditions; statute requires a full unrestricted license. Failure requires revocation and denial. No new examination is specified for this conversion.
Existing License
Hold the conditional license authorized by 67-9411(3).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Full licensure after limited universal licensure

All of the following:

Examination Discretion
67-9409(4) permits all or part of the standard existing NIC application examination; mounting reflects that possible requirement, and the Board decides individual completion or waiver.
Existing License
Hold a limited universal license and complete the additional Board-determined qualifications for full scope.
Military endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Military member, former member discharged under honorable conditions, veteran, or spouse of such a person; current, valid, unrestricted licensure in a United States jurisdiction or the armed forces or national guard.
Examination Exemption
67-9406(4) prohibits requiring all or part of an examination on the condensed military application; no application fee may be required. A narrower prior scope may result in limited licensure under subsection (5).
Processing
Intended issuance within fifteen business days when qualifications are validated.
Verification
Validate status and licensure; disclose current, pending, and subsequent disciplinary proceedings.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial examination route using relevant military education, training, or service

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Expedited Processing
67-9405 provides expedited applications for qualifying military members, former members, veterans, and spouses.
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Military Credit
Relevant and applicable military education, training, or service is accepted toward licensing qualifications under 67-9404.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Remaining Qualifications
Meet applicable noncredited training, general qualifications, and the NIC examination requirements.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Examination with practical experience credit for a foreign licensee ineligible for endorsement

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Eligibility
Board issues a Verification of Eligibility before examination registration for eligible out-of-state applicants.
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Existing License
Hold a current license in another state, territory, possession, or country and do not meet endorsement qualifications.
Experience Credit
For every six months of practical barbering experience the Board may credit 100 student hours or 200 apprentice hours.
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Remaining Training
Complete any remaining applicable education or apprenticeship requirements.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Renewal of a license issued under the prior barber law
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Prior Qualification
Qualified for licensure under former Title 54 Chapters 5 or 8 before the 2018 Barber and Cosmetology Services Act; entitled to renew under the current Act.
Renewal
Current biennial-renewal application, fees, and compliance obligations apply.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after failure to renew within five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discretion
Reinstatement is subject to the Division accepting compliance documentation.
Expiration
License canceled for failure to renew, no more than five years ago.
Reinstatement
Provide documentation of timely-renewal requirements and applicable fees and other reinstatement requirements under 67-2614(9); this statutory path lists no examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New licensure after cancellation for more than five years

All of the following:

Application
Submit all new-license forms and information, the current new-license fee, and amounts due or proof of a payment arrangement.
Cancellation
License canceled for more than five years.
Competency
Division determines competency requirements, which may include education, supervised practice, and examination; other-jurisdiction practice may be considered. The Idaho CIB identifies reinstatement candidates eligible for NIC licensure examinations and requires Board VOE. Required examinations or waivers depend on that determination.
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Military Protection
67-2606 may exempt military licensees from fees and keeps the license in good standing without renewal during qualifying service and six months after discharge.
Renewal
Renew before the licensee birthday, with approved application, required renewal fee, compliance documentation, and payment of amounts due or an approved payment arrangement.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination after school

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Professional Education
Graduate from a Board-approved barber school course of at least 900 hours.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Universal licensure

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Board Exam Discretion
67-9409(4) allows all or part of an existing application examination as necessary to demonstrate competence; NIC written and practical examinations approved in IDAPA 24.28.01.100.01 are retained as leaves. Whether the Board requires an individual to sit or excuses an examination is an applicant condition. A new jurisprudence examination may not be established under this provision.
Competency
Demonstrate competency by methods determined by the Board and meet applicable background checks and maintenance requirements.
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Existing License
Current, valid, unrestricted licensure in another United States jurisdiction.
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Universal work recognition

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Competency
Submit supporting materials and undergo ordinary background checks; use the same required passing score and licensing fee as standard applicants (67-9414).
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Work Experience
At least four years in the same profession or occupation with a similar scope in a United States jurisdiction or the military where that practice did not require a license.

Conditional Barber License

One-year conditional license in lieu of criminal-history denial, with conversion upon successful completion of probationary conditions.

Licensing authority: Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board · Application information

Conditional endorsement licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Decision
Board or its agent evaluates the endorsement application under 54-5816.
Criminal History
Conditional issuance under 67-9411(3) after relevance review in lieu of denial; one-year probation and Board-imposed conditions.
Endorsement Qualification
Show either equivalent original licensing standards or practice for one of the last three years.
Existing Credential
Hold a certificate of qualification or license from the proper authority of another United States jurisdiction or a foreign country.
General Qualifications
Meet 54-5810(1)(a), (b), and (d); submit the application and required fees.
Lower Ranked Bulletin
Idaho CIB page 2 says "Candidates seeking to be licensed in the State of Idaho must successfully complete the written examination and the practical examination." The controlling endorsement statute expressly permits issuance "without examination"; this bulletin demand is recorded as an applicant-facing condition, not an examination leaf.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conditional initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Criminal History
Board evaluates relevance factors in 67-9411 and may issue conditional licensure instead of denial.
Education
Satisfy an applicable initial pathway: school graduation, completed registered apprenticeship, the current-cosmetologist crossover course, accepted military training, eligible out-of-state education and experience credit, or universal work recognition. The profession-specific training amounts remain those in 54-5810(2) and IDAPA 24.28.01.100.02.
General Qualifications
Applicable general licensing, application, and examination passing requirements remain in force.
Probation
One year; satisfy all Board-imposed probationary conditions. Failure leads to revocation and denial of unrestricted licensure.
Conditional universal licensure

All of the following:

Criminal History
One-year conditional issuance under 67-9411(3), subject to Board-imposed probationary conditions.
Examination Discretion
Under 67-9409(4), the Board may require all or part of the existing standard NIC examinations to demonstrate competency.
Existing License
Current, valid, unrestricted prior licensure qualifying under 67-9409.

Limited Barber License

Restricted scope of practice pending satisfaction of additional qualifications under 67-9406(5) or 67-9409(6).

Licensing authority: Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board · Application information

Limited military endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Military member, former member discharged under honorable conditions, veteran, or spouse of such a person; current, valid, unrestricted licensure in a United States jurisdiction or the armed forces or national guard.
Examination Exemption
67-9406(4) prohibits requiring all or part of an examination on the condensed military application; no application fee may be required. A narrower prior scope may result in limited licensure under subsection (5).
Later Assessment
A narrowly tailored examination or partial examination may be administered for a later full license; the statute does not identify that assessment as a complete NIC examination.
Processing
Intended issuance within fifteen business days when qualifications are validated.
Scope Restriction
Prior licensed scope is narrower than Idaho; practice restricted to that scope for a limited period pending Board-required additional education, training, or other qualifications.
Verification
Validate status and licensure; disclose current, pending, and subsequent disciplinary proceedings.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Limited universal licensure

All of the following:

Examination Discretion
Under 67-9409(4), all or part of the ordinary NIC examination may be required for competency; applicant-specific sitting and waiver decisions remain conditions.
Existing License
Current, valid, unrestricted licensure in another United States jurisdiction with a narrower scope than Idaho.
Scope Restriction
Practice remains within the prior licensed scope for a limited time until additional Board-required qualifications are satisfied.

Barber-Stylist

Individual license to practice barber-styling, including chemical hair services.

Licensing authority: Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board · Application information

Initial licensure by examination after apprenticeship

All of the following:

Applicable Apprenticeship Recognition
67-9412 requires recognition of an applicable Board- or United States Department of Labor-adopted apprenticeship, with the same examination passing score and other nontraining criteria as ordinary applicants.
Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Professional Education
Complete at least 3,000 apprentice hours covering all barber-styling aspects; complete within 94 weeks under IDAPA 24.28.01.150.02.a(ii).
Supervision
Registered apprenticeship under a licensed instructor; daily work and instruction records, subject to 54-5817.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Additional license for a currently licensed cosmetologist

All of the following:

Additional Training
Complete 100 hours in barber theory, haircuts, and shaving under IDAPA 24.28.01.100.02; examinations remain required by 54-5810(1)(c).
Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Existing License
Hold a current cosmetologist license.
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Endorsement based on equivalent original licensing standards
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Decision
Board or its agent evaluates the endorsement application under 54-5816.
Existing Credential
Hold a certificate of qualification or license from the proper authority of another United States jurisdiction or a foreign country.
General Qualifications
Meet 54-5810(1)(a), (b), and (d); submit the application and required fees.
Lower Ranked Bulletin
Idaho CIB page 2 says "Candidates seeking to be licensed in the State of Idaho must successfully complete the written examination and the practical examination." The controlling endorsement statute expressly permits issuance "without examination"; this bulletin demand is recorded as an applicant-facing condition, not an examination leaf.
Qualification Evidence
Official documentation that the original licensing or certification standards were no lower than the standards in Title 54 Chapter 58.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement based on recent practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Decision
Board or its agent evaluates the endorsement application under 54-5816.
Existing Credential
Hold a certificate of qualification or license from the proper authority of another United States jurisdiction or a foreign country.
General Qualifications
Meet 54-5810(1)(a), (b), and (d); submit the application and required fees.
Lower Ranked Bulletin
Idaho CIB page 2 says "Candidates seeking to be licensed in the State of Idaho must successfully complete the written examination and the practical examination." The controlling endorsement statute expressly permits issuance "without examination"; this bulletin demand is recorded as an applicant-facing condition, not an examination leaf.
Qualification Evidence
Official documentation of practice in the requested occupation for at least one of the last three years immediately preceding application.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Full unrestricted licensure after successful conditional licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Completion
Successfully complete the one-year probationary conditions; statute requires a full unrestricted license. Failure requires revocation and denial. No new examination is specified for this conversion.
Existing License
Hold the conditional license authorized by 67-9411(3).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Full licensure after limited universal licensure

All of the following:

Examination Discretion
67-9409(4) permits all or part of the standard existing NIC application examination; mounting reflects that possible requirement, and the Board decides individual completion or waiver.
Existing License
Hold a limited universal license and complete the additional Board-determined qualifications for full scope.
Military endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Military member, former member discharged under honorable conditions, veteran, or spouse of such a person; current, valid, unrestricted licensure in a United States jurisdiction or the armed forces or national guard.
Examination Exemption
67-9406(4) prohibits requiring all or part of an examination on the condensed military application; no application fee may be required. A narrower prior scope may result in limited licensure under subsection (5).
Processing
Intended issuance within fifteen business days when qualifications are validated.
Verification
Validate status and licensure; disclose current, pending, and subsequent disciplinary proceedings.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial examination route using relevant military education, training, or service

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Expedited Processing
67-9405 provides expedited applications for qualifying military members, former members, veterans, and spouses.
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Military Credit
Relevant and applicable military education, training, or service is accepted toward licensing qualifications under 67-9404.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Remaining Qualifications
Meet applicable noncredited training, general qualifications, and the NIC examination requirements.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Examination with practical experience credit for a foreign licensee ineligible for endorsement

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Eligibility
Board issues a Verification of Eligibility before examination registration for eligible out-of-state applicants.
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Existing License
Hold a current license in another state, territory, possession, or country and do not meet endorsement qualifications.
Experience Credit
For every six months of practical barber-styling experience the Board may credit 200 student hours or 400 apprentice hours.
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Remaining Training
Complete any remaining applicable education or apprenticeship requirements.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Renewal of a license issued under the prior barber law
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Prior Qualification
Qualified for licensure under former Title 54 Chapters 5 or 8 before the 2018 Barber and Cosmetology Services Act; entitled to renew under the current Act.
Renewal
Current biennial-renewal application, fees, and compliance obligations apply.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after failure to renew within five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discretion
Reinstatement is subject to the Division accepting compliance documentation.
Expiration
License canceled for failure to renew, no more than five years ago.
Reinstatement
Provide documentation of timely-renewal requirements and applicable fees and other reinstatement requirements under 67-2614(9); this statutory path lists no examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New licensure after cancellation for more than five years

All of the following:

Application
Submit all new-license forms and information, the current new-license fee, and amounts due or proof of a payment arrangement.
Cancellation
License canceled for more than five years.
Competency
Division determines competency requirements, which may include education, supervised practice, and examination; other-jurisdiction practice may be considered. The Idaho CIB identifies reinstatement candidates eligible for NIC licensure examinations and requires Board VOE. Required examinations or waivers depend on that determination.
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Military Protection
67-2606 may exempt military licensees from fees and keeps the license in good standing without renewal during qualifying service and six months after discharge.
Renewal
Renew before the licensee birthday, with approved application, required renewal fee, compliance documentation, and payment of amounts due or an approved payment arrangement.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination after school

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Professional Education
Graduate from a Board-approved barber school course of at least 1,500 hours.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Universal licensure

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Board Exam Discretion
67-9409(4) allows all or part of an existing application examination as necessary to demonstrate competence; NIC written and practical examinations approved in IDAPA 24.28.01.100.01 are retained as leaves. Whether the Board requires an individual to sit or excuses an examination is an applicant condition. A new jurisprudence examination may not be established under this provision.
Competency
Demonstrate competency by methods determined by the Board and meet applicable background checks and maintenance requirements.
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Existing License
Current, valid, unrestricted licensure in another United States jurisdiction.
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Universal work recognition

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Board-authorized application, qualification documentation under oath, and required fees (54-5808).
Competency
Submit supporting materials and undergo ordinary background checks; use the same required passing score and licensing fee as standard applicants (67-9414).
Exam Timing
Students may sit the licensing examination after 80 percent of required educational hours; high-school students may accrue training hours before age 16 1/2 (54-5810(6)-(7)).
Fitness
Show no conduct constituting grounds for discipline under 54-5823; criminal history is evaluated for current relevance under 67-9411.
General Education
At least two years of high school or Board-determined equivalent, including equivalent nonpublic-school education (54-5810(1)(b)); a nonpublic high-school diploma of an adult is recognized under 67-9419.
Minimum Age
At least 16 1/2 years old at application (54-5810(1)(a)).
Passing Scores
Idaho CIB page 9: an overall scaled score of 75.00 on each written and practical examination.
Temporary License
Board FAQ: "No. Temporary licenses are not issued."
Work Experience
At least four years in the same profession or occupation with a similar scope in a United States jurisdiction or the military where that practice did not require a license.

Conditional Barber-Stylist License

One-year conditional license in lieu of criminal-history denial, with conversion upon successful completion of probationary conditions.

Licensing authority: Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board · Application information

Conditional endorsement licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Decision
Board or its agent evaluates the endorsement application under 54-5816.
Criminal History
Conditional issuance under 67-9411(3) after relevance review in lieu of denial; one-year probation and Board-imposed conditions.
Endorsement Qualification
Show either equivalent original licensing standards or practice for one of the last three years.
Existing Credential
Hold a certificate of qualification or license from the proper authority of another United States jurisdiction or a foreign country.
General Qualifications
Meet 54-5810(1)(a), (b), and (d); submit the application and required fees.
Lower Ranked Bulletin
Idaho CIB page 2 says "Candidates seeking to be licensed in the State of Idaho must successfully complete the written examination and the practical examination." The controlling endorsement statute expressly permits issuance "without examination"; this bulletin demand is recorded as an applicant-facing condition, not an examination leaf.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conditional initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Criminal History
Board evaluates relevance factors in 67-9411 and may issue conditional licensure instead of denial.
Education
Satisfy an applicable initial pathway: school graduation, completed registered apprenticeship, the current-cosmetologist crossover course, accepted military training, eligible out-of-state education and experience credit, or universal work recognition. The profession-specific training amounts remain those in 54-5810(2) and IDAPA 24.28.01.100.02.
General Qualifications
Applicable general licensing, application, and examination passing requirements remain in force.
Probation
One year; satisfy all Board-imposed probationary conditions. Failure leads to revocation and denial of unrestricted licensure.
Conditional universal licensure

All of the following:

Criminal History
One-year conditional issuance under 67-9411(3), subject to Board-imposed probationary conditions.
Examination Discretion
Under 67-9409(4), the Board may require all or part of the existing standard NIC examinations to demonstrate competency.
Existing License
Current, valid, unrestricted prior licensure qualifying under 67-9409.

Limited Barber-Stylist License

Restricted scope of practice pending satisfaction of additional qualifications under 67-9406(5) or 67-9409(6).

Licensing authority: Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board · Application information

Limited military endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Military member, former member discharged under honorable conditions, veteran, or spouse of such a person; current, valid, unrestricted licensure in a United States jurisdiction or the armed forces or national guard.
Examination Exemption
67-9406(4) prohibits requiring all or part of an examination on the condensed military application; no application fee may be required. A narrower prior scope may result in limited licensure under subsection (5).
Later Assessment
A narrowly tailored examination or partial examination may be administered for a later full license; the statute does not identify that assessment as a complete NIC examination.
Processing
Intended issuance within fifteen business days when qualifications are validated.
Scope Restriction
Prior licensed scope is narrower than Idaho; practice restricted to that scope for a limited period pending Board-required additional education, training, or other qualifications.
Verification
Validate status and licensure; disclose current, pending, and subsequent disciplinary proceedings.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Limited universal licensure

All of the following:

Examination Discretion
Under 67-9409(4), all or part of the ordinary NIC examination may be required for competency; applicant-specific sitting and waiver decisions remain conditions.
Existing License
Current, valid, unrestricted licensure in another United States jurisdiction with a narrower scope than Idaho.
Scope Restriction
Practice remains within the prior licensed scope for a limited time until additional Board-required qualifications are satisfied.

National Barber 1 (No Chemical) Practical Examination

This assessment does not have a question bank.

Provider
Developed by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); practical examinations administered by test administration companies and states upon approval and authorization of NIC
Format
Hands-on practical examination in 5 timed or variably timed core domain sections evaluated by examiners on specified tasks; candidates bring their own supply kit; model or mannequin requirements follow state guidelines; a straight razor must be used
Examination sources

National Barber 1 (No Chemical) Theory Examination

Provider
Developed by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); computer-based testing administered by test administration companies and states upon approval and authorization of NIC
Format
Multiple-choice theory examination; each question is followed by four answer options, only one of which is correct
Exam questions
60 items, of which 50 items are weighted and contribute to the final score
Time limit
90 minutes
Examination outline
  • Scientific Concepts (40% of items) (40%)
    • Infection control and safety practices — Identify how disease and infection are caused and transmitted
    • Infection control and safety practices — Apply principles of infection control: Sanitation/Cleansing; Disinfection; Sterilization; Contamination and cross-contamination
    • Infection control and safety practices — Apply blood exposure procedures
    • Infection control and safety practices — Identify requirements of government agencies related to public protection (e.g., CDC, OSHA, EPA)
    • Human anatomy and physiology — Identify function and structure of the: Hair and scalp; Skin
    • Human anatomy and physiology — Identify bones related to: Head and face; Neck, shoulders, and upper back
    • Human anatomy and physiology — Identify muscles and joints and their functions related to: Head and face; Neck, shoulders, and upper back
    • Human anatomy and physiology — Understand the functions of body systems: Nervous system; Circulatory system; Endocrine system; Integumentary system
    • Human anatomy and physiology — Identify signs and symptoms of conditions, disorders, and diseases related to skin: Types; Treatments
    • Human anatomy and physiology — Identify signs and symptoms of conditions, disorders, and diseases related to hair: Types; Treatments
    • Basic chemistry of products used in barbering — Understand purpose and effects of products, ingredients, and their interactions
  • Implements and Equipment Used in Barbering (10% of items) (10%)
    • Identify function, purpose, and care of tools used in hair services: Equipment (e.g., chair, workstation); Implements (e.g., razors, shears, combs/brushes); Supplies and materials (e.g., towels, drape, neck strips); Electrical tools (e.g. clippers, blow dryers)
    • Understand and apply safety and sanitation practices for use of implements and equipment
  • Hair Care Services (30% of items) (30%)
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for hair care services — Analyze condition of client’s hair and scalp (i.e., assessment)
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for hair care services — Recognize conditions that would prohibit service (i.e., contraindications)
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for hair care services — Determine hair services and/or products
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for hair care services — Document and maintain client records for hair services (e.g., consultation card, service history, medical history)
    • Hair care — Apply knowledge of draping (e.g., chemical, shampoo, hair cutting)
    • Hair care — Apply knowledge of principles and procedures for shampooing and conditioning
    • Hair care — Apply knowledge of principles and procedures for scalp treatments and scalp massage/manipulation
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety of hair cutting: Shaping; Outlining; Neck shave
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of principles, procedures and safety of hair styling: Wet styling; Blowdry styling; Thermal styling; Natural hair styling (e.g., braiding, locks)
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety of hair enhancements
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of preparation, procedures, and safety for head shaving
  • Facial Hair and Skin Care Services (20% of items) (20%)
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for facial hair and skin care services — Evaluate client’s skin (e.g., type, condition)
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for facial hair and skin care services — Identify contraindications: Disorders; Diseases
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for facial hair and skin care services — Determine services and/or products
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for facial hair and skin care services — Document and maintain client records for facial hair services (e.g., consultation card, service history, medical history)
    • Apply knowledge of draping for facial hair and skin care services
    • Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety for facial hair and skin care services — Complete shave service with required strokes
    • Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety for facial hair and skin care services — Facial hair design
    • Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety for facial hair and skin care services — Facial (e.g., cleansing, steam towel massage)
    • Electrotherapy and light therapy — Apply knowledge of purpose and types of electrotherapy and light therapy
Examination sources

National Barber Styling Practical Examination

This assessment does not have a question bank.

Provider
Developed by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); practical examinations administered by test administration companies and states upon approval and authorization of NIC
Format
Hands-on practical examination in 9 timed or variably timed core domain sections evaluated by examiners on specified tasks; candidates bring their own supply kit; model or mannequin requirements follow state guidelines; a straight razor must be used
Examination sources

National Barber Styling Theory Examination

Provider
Developed by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); computer-based testing administered by test administration companies and states upon approval and authorization of NIC
Format
Multiple-choice theory examination; each question is followed by four answer options, only one of which is correct
Exam questions
110 items, of which 100 items are weighted and contribute to the final score
Time limit
90 minutes
Examination outline
  • Scientific Concepts (35% of items) (35%)
    • Infection control and safety practices — Identify how disease and infection are caused and transmitted
    • Infection control and safety practices — Apply principles of infection control: Sanitation/Cleansing; Disinfection; Sterilization; Contamination and cross-contamination
    • Infection control and safety practices — Apply blood exposure procedures
    • Infection control and safety practices — Identify requirements of government agencies (e.g., CDC, OSHA, EPA)
    • Human anatomy and physiology — Identify function and structure of the: Hair and scalp; Skin
    • Human anatomy and physiology — Identify bones related to: Head and face; Neck, shoulders, and upper back
    • Human anatomy and physiology — Identify muscles and joints and their functions related to: Head and face; Neck, shoulders, and upper back
    • Human anatomy and physiology — Understand the functions of body systems: Nervous system; Circulatory system; Endocrine system; Integumentary system
    • Human anatomy and physiology — Identify signs and symptoms of conditions, disorders, and diseases related to skin: Types; Treatments
    • Human anatomy and physiology — Identify signs and symptoms of conditions, disorders, and diseases related to hair: Types; Treatments
    • Basic chemistry of products used in barbering — Understand the chemical pH scale
    • Basic chemistry of products used in barbering — Understand purpose and effects of products, ingredients, and their interactions
    • Basic chemistry of products used in barbering — Understand interactions among chemicals
    • Basic chemistry of products used in barbering — Understand chemical reactions (e.g., overexposure, chemical burn, inhalation)
  • Implements and Equipment Used in Barbering (10% of items) (10%)
    • Identify function, purpose, and care of tools used in hair services: Equipment (e.g., chair, workstation); Implements (e.g., razors, shears, combs/brushes); Supplies and materials (e.g., towels, drape, neck strips); Electrical tools (e.g. clippers, blow dryers)
    • Understand and apply safety and sanitation practices for use of implements and equipment
  • Hair Care Services (40% of items) (40%)
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for hair care services — Analyze condition of client’s hair and scalp (i.e., assessment)
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for hair care services — Recognize conditions that would prohibit service (i.e., contraindications)
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for hair care services — Determine hair services and/or products
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for hair care services — Document and maintain client records for hair services (e.g., consultation card, service history, medical history)
    • Hair care — Apply knowledge of draping (e.g., chemical, shampoo, hair cutting)
    • Hair care — Apply knowledge of principles and procedures for shampooing and conditioning
    • Hair care — Apply knowledge of principles and procedures for scalp treatments and scalp massage/manipulation
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety of hair cutting: Shaping; Outlining; Neck shave
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of principles, procedures and safety of hair styling: Wet styling; Blowdry styling; Thermal styling; Natural hair styling (e.g., braiding, locks)
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety of hair enhancements
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of preparation, procedures, and safety for head shaving
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety for chemical services — Understand preliminary tests (e.g., purposes, uses, applications): Predisposition; Strand test
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety for chemical services — Hair coloring (including facial hair)
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety for chemical services — Hair lightening
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety for chemical services — Foiling
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety for chemical services — Chemical hair relaxing/restructuring and curl reduction: Hydroxide; Thio; Keratin
    • Hair design — Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety for chemical services — Chemical waving/texturizing: Alkaline; Acid; Non-thio
  • Facial Hair and Skin Care Services (15% of items) (15%)
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for facial hair and skin care services — Evaluate client’s skin (e.g., type, condition)
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for facial hair and skin care services — Identify contraindications: Disorders; Diseases
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for facial hair and skin care services — Determine facial hair services and/or products
    • Client consultation, analysis, and documentation for facial hair and skin care services — Document and maintain client records for facial hair services (e.g., consultation card, service history, medical history)
    • Apply knowledge of draping for facial hair and skin care services
    • Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety for facial hair and skin care services — Complete shave service with required strokes
    • Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety for facial hair and skin care services — Facial hair design
    • Apply knowledge of principles, procedures, and safety for facial hair and skin care services — Facial (e.g., cleansing, steaming, mask)
    • Electrotherapy and light therapy — Apply knowledge of purpose and types of electrotherapy and light therapy
Examination sources