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New Hampshire Barber — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Barber License

Personal barbering license under RSA 313-A:10(I).

Licensing authority: New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics; Office of Professional Licensure and Certification · Application information

Licensure by endorsement / reciprocity
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the universal initial application, fees and supporting documentation required by Plc 313.03 and Plc 313.05. Foreign credentials require a NACES or AICE evaluation under Plc 313.12.
Former Reciprocity Rule
Bar 304 still cites former RSA 313-A:14. That section was repealed July 1, 2024; this route applies current RSA 310:17 and Plc 313. The Board may request training and licensure verification described in Bar 304, but the repealed clause does not establish a separate current statutory reciprocity route.
License Held
Hold an active, non-temporary, unrestricted license in good standing from a jurisdiction with substantially similar requirements; provide primary-source verification.
Qualifying Jurisdiction
The licensing jurisdiction must require graduation from a state-approved education or training program and passage of a state-approved competency examination for barbers under Plc 313.18. The unidentified or other-jurisdiction examination is a condition, not a New Hampshire examination leaf.
Waiver
An applicant whose jurisdiction does not meet the stated substantially similar criteria may request a waiver based on education, training and actual work experience under Plc 313.11.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Licensure by examination — education exemption

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Universal Application for Initial License and profession-specific initial application; provide diploma, training verification and applicable fees; request direct transmission of test results to OPLC.
Education
Petition OPLC for an exemption from RSA 313-A:10(I)(b)-(c), specifically identifying the provision. The office may grant an exemption under RSA 313-A:10(II); it does not waive RSA 313-A:10(I)(d).
Exam Format
Bar 303.05 permits an English oral delivery in place of the written examination upon a signed, dated written request to the testing agency or Board. This is a delivery option for the national written test, not a separately registered examination.
Passing Scores
Pass both NIC written and practical examinations. OPLC-published CIB requires an overall scaled passing score of 75.00 for each; retake a failed written portion or the full failed practical exam under Bar 303.09.
Professional Character
Must be of good professional character under RSA 313-A:10 and Bar 301.02; disclose the background information required by the application.
Supporting Evidence
Bar 305.01 specifies eligibility and work-history documentation for exemptions, including the age-21 education exception and proof of current licensure, alternate training or work experience where applicable. Its older numerical training references do not replace the current statute.
Licensure by examination — out of state school

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Universal Application for Initial License and profession-specific initial application; provide diploma, training verification and applicable fees; request direct transmission of test results to OPLC.
Education
Must have completed high school or its equivalent.
Exam Format
Bar 303.05 permits an English oral delivery in place of the written examination upon a signed, dated written request to the testing agency or Board. This is a delivery option for the national written test, not a separately registered examination.
Passing Scores
Pass both NIC written and practical examinations. OPLC-published CIB requires an overall scaled passing score of 75.00 for each; retake a failed written portion or the full failed practical exam under Bar 303.09.
Professional Character
Must be of good professional character under RSA 313-A:10 and Bar 301.02; disclose the background information required by the application.
Training
Complete the required 800 barber school hours at a school approved by its licensing jurisdiction; obtain the state board verification letter containing the details required by Bar 301.07(d)-(e).
Licensure by examination — school

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Universal Application for Initial License and profession-specific initial application; provide diploma, training verification and applicable fees; request direct transmission of test results to OPLC.
Education
Must have completed high school or its equivalent.
Exam Format
Bar 303.05 permits an English oral delivery in place of the written examination upon a signed, dated written request to the testing agency or Board. This is a delivery option for the national written test, not a separately registered examination.
Passing Scores
Pass both NIC written and practical examinations. OPLC-published CIB requires an overall scaled passing score of 75.00 for each; retake a failed written portion or the full failed practical exam under Bar 303.09.
Professional Character
Must be of good professional character under RSA 313-A:10 and Bar 301.02; disclose the background information required by the application.
Training
At least 800 hours in an OPLC-approved school of barbering.
Licensure by examination — shop apprenticeship

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Universal Application for Initial License and profession-specific initial application; provide diploma, training verification and applicable fees; request direct transmission of test results to OPLC.
Education
Must have completed high school or its equivalent.
Exam Format
Bar 303.05 permits an English oral delivery in place of the written examination upon a signed, dated written request to the testing agency or Board. This is a delivery option for the national written test, not a separately registered examination.
Passing Scores
Pass both NIC written and practical examinations. OPLC-published CIB requires an overall scaled passing score of 75.00 for each; retake a failed written portion or the full failed practical exam under Bar 303.09.
Professional Character
Must be of good professional character under RSA 313-A:10 and Bar 301.02; disclose the background information required by the application.
Training
At least 1,600 hours over at least 12 months under a licensed barber who has practiced barbering in New Hampshire for at least 2 years; apprentice registration and documented completion are required.
Licensure by examination — training exemption

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Universal Application for Initial License and profession-specific initial application; provide diploma, training verification and applicable fees; request direct transmission of test results to OPLC.
Education
Must have completed high school or its equivalent.
Exam Format
Bar 303.05 permits an English oral delivery in place of the written examination upon a signed, dated written request to the testing agency or Board. This is a delivery option for the national written test, not a separately registered examination.
Passing Scores
Pass both NIC written and practical examinations. OPLC-published CIB requires an overall scaled passing score of 75.00 for each; retake a failed written portion or the full failed practical exam under Bar 303.09.
Professional Character
Must be of good professional character under RSA 313-A:10 and Bar 301.02; disclose the background information required by the application.
Supporting Evidence
Bar 305.01 specifies eligibility and work-history documentation for exemptions, including the age-21 education exception and proof of current licensure, alternate training or work experience where applicable. Its older numerical training references do not replace the current statute.
Training
Petition OPLC for an exemption from RSA 313-A:10(I)(b)-(c), specifically identifying the provision. The office may grant an exemption under RSA 313-A:10(II); it does not waive RSA 313-A:10(I)(d).
New application after lapse

All of the following:

Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Return To Practice
Expired for more than one year; apply for initial licensure and satisfy any additional applicable competence requirements.
New application after missing suspension restoration deadline

All of the following:

Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Return To Practice
Missed the restoration or reinstatement deadline in Plc 312.04; apply for initial licensure.
Reactivation after military inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Military Status
New Hampshire license was placed on inactive status because a reserve-component or National Guard licensee was called to active duty; request reactivation within one year of release. If the original term expired, pay renewal fees and document applicable continuing competence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Reinstatement within one year after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Expiration
License has expired for not more than one year. Complete renewal requirements and demonstrate continuing competence and retained or re-obtained required credentials. RSA 310:8 supersedes the older five-year late-renewal provisions in Bar 401.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Renewal
File timely before expiration. Satisfy applicable renewal criteria and monetary penalties. For this profession Bar 401.02 requires good professional character; business inspection requirements remain conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Restoration after suspension — timely request
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Suspension
Request within 30 days of the end of suspension, while unexpired, or apply for reinstatement within one year of expiration as Plc 312.04 provides. Demonstrate compliance with every suspension-order and correction-plan condition and pay imposed monetary penalties and costs; any order-specific assessment remains an unidentified applicant condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

New application after revocation

All of the following:

Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Return To Practice
Apply for initial licensure; satisfy the revocation order, required waiting period, continuing competence and outstanding penalties and costs; the Board may issue a license with conditions.

School Instructor License — Barber

School instructor in the specified barber licensure category.

Licensing authority: New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics; Office of Professional Licensure and Certification · Application information

Add barber discipline to an existing instructor license

All of the following:

Examination
Bar 303.10(b) requires passage of both practical and written examinations in the additional licensure category, followed by the instructor license fee. This is the category’s NIC barber examination pair identified on CIB page 5; it is not initial instructor licensure under Bar 301.08(c).
Existing Instructor
Already licensed as an instructor in another licensure category and seeking instruction authority in barber.
School instructor licensure by endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the universal initial application and required documents and fees; obtain a foreign-credential evaluation if applicable; may request a Plc 313.11 waiver of stated criteria.
License Held
Active, non-temporary, unrestricted school instructor license in good standing from a substantially similar jurisdiction; provide primary-source verification.
Qualification
Plc 313.18(f) requires a personal license or eligibility in the subject taught, the licensing jurisdiction’s approved instructor training, experience or education, and its state-approved competency examination. That unidentified or other-jurisdiction examination is an applicant condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Reactivation after military inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Military Status
New Hampshire license was placed on inactive status because a reserve-component or National Guard licensee was called to active duty; request reactivation within one year of release. If the original term expired, pay renewal fees and document applicable continuing competence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Reinstatement within one year after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Expiration
License has expired for not more than one year. Complete renewal requirements and demonstrate continuing competence and retained or re-obtained required credentials. RSA 310:8 supersedes the older five-year late-renewal provisions in Bar 401.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Renewal
File timely before expiration. Satisfy applicable renewal criteria and monetary penalties. For this profession Bar 401.02 requires good professional character; business inspection requirements remain conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Restoration after suspension — timely request
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Suspension
Request within 30 days of the end of suspension, while unexpired, or apply for reinstatement within one year of expiration as Plc 312.04 provides. Demonstrate compliance with every suspension-order and correction-plan condition and pay imposed monetary penalties and costs; any order-specific assessment remains an unidentified applicant condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Temporary Permit — Barber

Temporary supervised practice pending the licensing examination; RSA 313-A:18.

Licensing authority: New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics; Office of Professional Licensure and Certification · Application information

Initial temporary work permit

All of the following:

Eligibility
Eligible to take the corresponding professional licensure examination; completed training and submitted an approved application; good professional character.
Examination Timing
The currently offered national examination pair remains involved in this pending-examination route even though the permit is issued before it is passed.
Supervision
Practice under a licensed practitioner in a registered shop; immediate access to a licensee when providing client services.
Termination
Failure without just cause to take the notified examination terminates the permit; the permit does not itself authorize full licensure.
Second temporary work permit after exam failure

All of the following:

Eligibility
Eligible to take the corresponding professional licensure examination; completed training and submitted an approved application; good professional character.
Examination Timing
The currently offered national examination pair remains involved in this pending-examination route even though the permit is issued before it is passed.
Second Permit
After failing the licensing exam, OPLC may grant a second permit under the same supervision conditions. It expires 60 days after issuance unless just cause for not taking the examination is accepted.
Supervision
Practice under a licensed practitioner in a registered shop; immediate access to a licensee when providing client services.
Termination
Failure without just cause to take the notified examination terminates the permit; the permit does not itself authorize full licensure.

Master Barber License

Personal master barber license under RSA 313-A:10(III), including chemical hair services.

Licensing authority: New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics; Office of Professional Licensure and Certification · Application information

Licensure by endorsement / reciprocity
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the universal initial application, fees and supporting documentation required by Plc 313.03 and Plc 313.05. Foreign credentials require a NACES or AICE evaluation under Plc 313.12.
Former Reciprocity Rule
Bar 304 still cites former RSA 313-A:14. That section was repealed July 1, 2024; this route applies current RSA 310:17 and Plc 313. The Board may request training and licensure verification described in Bar 304, but the repealed clause does not establish a separate current statutory reciprocity route.
License Held
Hold an active, non-temporary, unrestricted license in good standing from a jurisdiction with substantially similar requirements; provide primary-source verification.
Qualifying Jurisdiction
The licensing jurisdiction must require graduation from a state-approved education or training program and passage of a state-approved competency examination for master barbers under Plc 313.18. The unidentified or other-jurisdiction examination is a condition, not a New Hampshire examination leaf.
Qualifying Jurisdiction Confirmation
OPLC determines whether the issuing jurisdiction meets the substantially similar Master Barber criteria in Plc 313.18(e). No other jurisdiction was investigated in this survey.
Waiver
An applicant whose jurisdiction does not meet the stated substantially similar criteria may request a waiver based on education, training and actual work experience under Plc 313.11.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Licensure by examination — out of state school

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Universal Application for Initial License and profession-specific initial application; provide diploma, training verification and applicable fees; request direct transmission of test results to OPLC.
Education
Must have completed high school or its equivalent.
Exam Format
Bar 303.05 permits an English oral delivery in place of the written examination upon a signed, dated written request to the testing agency or Board. This is a delivery option for the national written test, not a separately registered examination.
Passing Scores
Pass both NIC written and practical examinations. OPLC-published CIB requires an overall scaled passing score of 75.00 for each; retake a failed written portion or the full failed practical exam under Bar 303.09.
Professional Character
Must be of good professional character under RSA 313-A:10 and Bar 301.02; disclose the background information required by the application.
Training
Complete the required 1,500 master barber school hours at a school approved by its licensing jurisdiction; obtain the state board verification letter containing the details required by Bar 301.07(d)-(e).
Licensure by examination — school

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Universal Application for Initial License and profession-specific initial application; provide diploma, training verification and applicable fees; request direct transmission of test results to OPLC.
Education
Must have completed high school or its equivalent.
Exam Format
Bar 303.05 permits an English oral delivery in place of the written examination upon a signed, dated written request to the testing agency or Board. This is a delivery option for the national written test, not a separately registered examination.
Passing Scores
Pass both NIC written and practical examinations. OPLC-published CIB requires an overall scaled passing score of 75.00 for each; retake a failed written portion or the full failed practical exam under Bar 303.09.
Professional Character
Must be of good professional character under RSA 313-A:10 and Bar 301.02; disclose the background information required by the application.
Training
At least 1,500 hours in an OPLC-approved school of master barbering.
Licensure by examination — shop apprenticeship

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Universal Application for Initial License and profession-specific initial application; provide diploma, training verification and applicable fees; request direct transmission of test results to OPLC.
Education
Must have completed high school or its equivalent.
Exam Format
Bar 303.05 permits an English oral delivery in place of the written examination upon a signed, dated written request to the testing agency or Board. This is a delivery option for the national written test, not a separately registered examination.
Passing Scores
Pass both NIC written and practical examinations. OPLC-published CIB requires an overall scaled passing score of 75.00 for each; retake a failed written portion or the full failed practical exam under Bar 303.09.
Professional Character
Must be of good professional character under RSA 313-A:10 and Bar 301.02; disclose the background information required by the application.
Training
At least 3,000 hours over at least 18 months under a licensed barber who has practiced barbering in New Hampshire for at least 2 years; apprentice registration and documented completion are required.
New application after lapse

All of the following:

Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Return To Practice
Expired for more than one year; apply for initial licensure and satisfy any additional applicable competence requirements.
New application after missing suspension restoration deadline

All of the following:

Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Return To Practice
Missed the restoration or reinstatement deadline in Plc 312.04; apply for initial licensure.
Reactivation after military inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Military Status
New Hampshire license was placed on inactive status because a reserve-component or National Guard licensee was called to active duty; request reactivation within one year of release. If the original term expired, pay renewal fees and document applicable continuing competence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Reinstatement within one year after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Expiration
License has expired for not more than one year. Complete renewal requirements and demonstrate continuing competence and retained or re-obtained required credentials. RSA 310:8 supersedes the older five-year late-renewal provisions in Bar 401.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Renewal
File timely before expiration. Satisfy applicable renewal criteria and monetary penalties. For this profession Bar 401.02 requires good professional character; business inspection requirements remain conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Restoration after suspension — timely request
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Suspension
Request within 30 days of the end of suspension, while unexpired, or apply for reinstatement within one year of expiration as Plc 312.04 provides. Demonstrate compliance with every suspension-order and correction-plan condition and pay imposed monetary penalties and costs; any order-specific assessment remains an unidentified applicant condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

New application after revocation

All of the following:

Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Return To Practice
Apply for initial licensure; satisfy the revocation order, required waiting period, continuing competence and outstanding penalties and costs; the Board may issue a license with conditions.

School Instructor License — Master Barber

School instructor in the specified barber licensure category.

Licensing authority: New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics; Office of Professional Licensure and Certification · Application information

Add barber discipline to an existing instructor license

All of the following:

Examination
Bar 303.10(b) requires passage of both practical and written examinations in the additional licensure category, followed by the instructor license fee. This is the category’s NIC barber examination pair identified on CIB page 5; it is not initial instructor licensure under Bar 301.08(c).
Existing Instructor
Already licensed as an instructor in another licensure category and seeking instruction authority in master barber.
School instructor licensure by endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the universal initial application and required documents and fees; obtain a foreign-credential evaluation if applicable; may request a Plc 313.11 waiver of stated criteria.
License Held
Active, non-temporary, unrestricted school instructor license in good standing from a substantially similar jurisdiction; provide primary-source verification.
Qualification
Plc 313.18(f) requires a personal license or eligibility in the subject taught, the licensing jurisdiction’s approved instructor training, experience or education, and its state-approved competency examination. That unidentified or other-jurisdiction examination is an applicant condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Reactivation after military inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Military Status
New Hampshire license was placed on inactive status because a reserve-component or National Guard licensee was called to active duty; request reactivation within one year of release. If the original term expired, pay renewal fees and document applicable continuing competence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Reinstatement within one year after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Expiration
License has expired for not more than one year. Complete renewal requirements and demonstrate continuing competence and retained or re-obtained required credentials. RSA 310:8 supersedes the older five-year late-renewal provisions in Bar 401.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Renewal
File timely before expiration. Satisfy applicable renewal criteria and monetary penalties. For this profession Bar 401.02 requires good professional character; business inspection requirements remain conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Restoration after suspension — timely request
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the applicable universal application and profession-specific supplement, current truthful background disclosures, any required supporting documents and fees.
Competence
Meet applicable continuing competence requirements and retain any credentials required by applicable law; requirements are conditions, not an unidentified exam leaf.
Existing Credential
Previously held this New Hampshire credential.
Suspension
Request within 30 days of the end of suspension, while unexpired, or apply for reinstatement within one year of expiration as Plc 312.04 provides. Demonstrate compliance with every suspension-order and correction-plan condition and pay imposed monetary penalties and costs; any order-specific assessment remains an unidentified applicant condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2025-08-19.

Temporary Permit — Master Barber

Temporary supervised practice pending the licensing examination; RSA 313-A:18.

Licensing authority: New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics; Office of Professional Licensure and Certification · Application information

Initial temporary work permit

All of the following:

Eligibility
Eligible to take the corresponding professional licensure examination; completed training and submitted an approved application; good professional character.
Examination Timing
The currently offered national examination pair remains involved in this pending-examination route even though the permit is issued before it is passed.
Supervision
Practice under a licensed practitioner in a registered shop; immediate access to a licensee when providing client services.
Termination
Failure without just cause to take the notified examination terminates the permit; the permit does not itself authorize full licensure.
Second temporary work permit after exam failure

All of the following:

Eligibility
Eligible to take the corresponding professional licensure examination; completed training and submitted an approved application; good professional character.
Examination Timing
The currently offered national examination pair remains involved in this pending-examination route even though the permit is issued before it is passed.
Second Permit
After failing the licensing exam, OPLC may grant a second permit under the same supervision conditions. It expires 60 days after issuance unless just cause for not taking the examination is accepted.
Supervision
Practice under a licensed practitioner in a registered shop; immediate access to a licensee when providing client services.
Termination
Failure without just cause to take the notified examination terminates the permit; the permit does not itself authorize full licensure.

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