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South Carolina Barber — Requirements & Free Practice

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

Registered Barber Apprentice

Apprentice registration following the registered-barber or master-hair-care examination track; the track is an applicant condition.

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Barber Examiners · Application information

Apprentice registration after barber high school training

All of the following:

Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum age
At least sixteen years old.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Supervision
Apprentice registration precedes twelve months/1,920 hours of directly supervised practice in actively licensed premises.
Track
Registered barber (no chemicals).
Training
Board-approved high-school program: 1,540 hours; the Board examination form also asks for 1,500 hours at an approved school.
Apprentice registration after barber ojt training

All of the following:

Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum age
At least sixteen years old.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Supervision
Apprentice registration precedes twelve months/1,920 hours of directly supervised practice in actively licensed premises.
Track
Registered barber (no chemicals).
Training
Board-approved on-the-job training: 1,920 hours under a licensed barber instructor in licensed premises.
Apprentice registration after barber school training

All of the following:

Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum age
At least sixteen years old.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Supervision
Apprentice registration precedes twelve months/1,920 hours of directly supervised practice in actively licensed premises.
Track
Registered barber (no chemicals).
Training
Board-approved barber college or school: at least 1,500 hours over at least nine months.
Expired apprentice registration reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Prior registration
Expired apprentice certificate may be reinstated immediately upon the reinstatement fee under §40-7-250(B).
Restriction
Section 40-7-250(C) prohibits renewal once proof is submitted for full registered-barber licensure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Registered apprentice renewal before final upgrade
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing registration
Existing apprentice registration; pay fee.
Restriction
An apprentice who has submitted proof for registered-barber licensure must take the examination before the next July first and may not renew the apprentice licence under §40-7-250(C). The ordinary initial/upgrade route retains those current examination leaves.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Apprentice registration after styling high school training

All of the following:

Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum age
At least sixteen years old.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Supervision
Apprentice registration precedes twelve months/1,920 hours of directly supervised practice in actively licensed premises.
Track
Master hair care specialist (chemical services).
Training
Board-approved high-school program: 1,540 hours; the Board examination form also asks for 1,500 hours at an approved school.
Apprentice registration after styling ojt training

All of the following:

Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum age
At least sixteen years old.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Supervision
Apprentice registration precedes twelve months/1,920 hours of directly supervised practice in actively licensed premises.
Track
Master hair care specialist (chemical services).
Training
Board-approved on-the-job training: 1,920 hours under a licensed barber instructor in licensed premises.
Apprentice registration after styling school training

All of the following:

Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum age
At least sixteen years old.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Supervision
Apprentice registration precedes twelve months/1,920 hours of directly supervised practice in actively licensed premises.
Track
Master hair care specialist (chemical services).
Training
Board-approved barber college or school: at least 1,500 hours over at least nine months.
Board reinstatement after voluntary surrender
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board decision
Cannot practise until the Board, by majority vote, reinstates the authorisation; the Board may impose conditions before reinstatement. Section 40-1-150 itself names no examination.
Individual conditions
Surrender does not admit guilt or prevent discipline; comply with any restoration conditions and the separately applicable current licence requirements.
Prior surrender
Licence or registration voluntarily surrendered during an investigation.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Special Certificate of Registration as an Apprentice Barber

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Barber Examiners · Application information

Special inmate apprentice certificate — barber

All of the following:

Custody
In custody of the South Carolina Department of Corrections.
Duration
120 days; renewal is at Board discretion.
Sentence
Youthful Offender Act sentence with at least nine months served, or determinant sentence with release/parole consideration eligibility within 120 days.
Track
Registered barber (no chemical)
Training
Meet §40-7-230(B), including required hours at a Board-approved barber school or college.
Discretionary renewal of special inmate apprentice certificate
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board discretion
Section 40-7-340(B) makes renewal discretionary; it imposes no renewal examination.
Existing certificate
Existing special inmate apprentice certificate.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Special inmate apprentice certificate — styling

All of the following:

Custody
In custody of the South Carolina Department of Corrections.
Duration
120 days; renewal is at Board discretion.
Sentence
Youthful Offender Act sentence with at least nine months served, or determinant sentence with release/parole consideration eligibility within 120 days.
Track
Master hair care specialist track.
Training
Meet §40-7-230(B), including required hours at a Board-approved barber school or college.

Master Hair Care Specialist

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Barber Examiners · Application information

Upgrade from completed registered apprenticeship

All of the following:

Already passed examinations
The current examinations passed for apprentice registration remain leaves; the upgrade form calls for supervisor certification rather than a new sitting.
Apprenticeship
Complete one year/1,920 hours under an actively licensed registered barber or master hair care specialist in licensed premises; provide signed supervisor attestation and the upgrade fee.
Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Initial issuance following high school training and supervised apprenticeship

All of the following:

Apprenticeship
After passing the examinations, practice as a registered apprentice for twelve months/1,920 hours under direct supervision; the Board requires the apprentice upgrade form and supervisor certification.
Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum age
At least seventeen years of age for unrestricted registration; apprentice registration begins at sixteen.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Track
Chemical master hair care specialist training must be supervised by a licensed master hair care specialist instructor.
Training
Board-approved high-school program: 1,540 hours; the Board examination form also asks for 1,500 hours at an approved school.
Initial issuance following ojt training and supervised apprenticeship

All of the following:

Apprenticeship
After passing the examinations, practice as a registered apprentice for twelve months/1,920 hours under direct supervision; the Board requires the apprentice upgrade form and supervisor certification.
Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum age
At least seventeen years of age for unrestricted registration; apprentice registration begins at sixteen.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Track
Chemical master hair care specialist training must be supervised by a licensed master hair care specialist instructor.
Training
Board-approved on-the-job training: 1,920 hours under a licensed barber instructor in licensed premises.
Initial issuance following school training and supervised apprenticeship

All of the following:

Apprenticeship
After passing the examinations, practice as a registered apprentice for twelve months/1,920 hours under direct supervision; the Board requires the apprentice upgrade form and supervisor certification.
Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum age
At least seventeen years of age for unrestricted registration; apprentice registration begins at sixteen.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Track
Chemical master hair care specialist training must be supervised by a licensed master hair care specialist instructor.
Training
Board-approved barber college or school: at least 1,500 hours over at least nine months.
Expedited reciprocity for a military spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board testing demand
The October 2022 Board instructions, requirement 4, state: 4. All applicants must have passed the National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) barber or barber styling examination. If you did not pass the NIC examination (theory and practical), you will be required to test in South Carolina as this state requires successful passing of the national examination to practice.
Documents
Complete application, fee, ninth-grade education evidence, licence verification, health certification and the supporting documents listed in the Board reciprocity instructions.
Experience
Licensed and actively practising during the preceding calendar year; provide the statutory notarized employer statements and the Board experience affidavit.
Law acknowledgment
Certify that the applicant has read, understands and will abide by Chapter 7 and its regulations.
License held elsewhere
Current barber licence in good standing from a state or country with requirements meeting or exceeding South Carolina requirements, as determined by the Board; apprenticeship licences are not accepted.
Military spouse
Married to and living with an active-duty member relocated to South Carolina by military orders; submit the expedited request, military orders, marriage evidence and licence verifications.
Source precedence
Section 40-7-300 commands issuance upon receipt of its enumerated documents and imposes no examination condition. Its terms control this route; the lower-ranked Board demand remains visible as an applicant condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by reciprocity from another state or country
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board testing demand
The October 2022 Board instructions, requirement 4, state: 4. All applicants must have passed the National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) barber or barber styling examination. If you did not pass the NIC examination (theory and practical), you will be required to test in South Carolina as this state requires successful passing of the national examination to practice.
Documents
Complete application, fee, ninth-grade education evidence, licence verification, health certification and the supporting documents listed in the Board reciprocity instructions.
Experience
Licensed and actively practising during the preceding calendar year; provide the statutory notarized employer statements and the Board experience affidavit.
Law acknowledgment
Certify that the applicant has read, understands and will abide by Chapter 7 and its regulations.
License held elsewhere
Current barber licence in good standing from a state or country with requirements meeting or exceeding South Carolina requirements, as determined by the Board; apprenticeship licences are not accepted.
Source precedence
Section 40-7-300 commands issuance upon receipt of its enumerated documents and imposes no examination condition. Its terms control this route; the lower-ranked Board demand remains visible as an applicant condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after more than three years of lapse
National Barber Styling Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Pay the reinstatement fee, complete application, and provide required identification, photograph, lawful-presence and personal-history documentation.
Exam selection
The Board reinstatement form specifies the practical examination; the statute leaves the examination unspecified.
Lapse
Licence has expired for more than three years.
Reinstatement within three years of lapse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Lapse
Licence expired no more than three years ago; pay reinstatement fee and supply the Board reinstatement application and supporting documents.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Ordinary licence renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current license
Existing valid licence; submit renewal application and required fee by the applicable Board renewal deadline.
Military fee exemption
Section 40-1-620 exempts licence fees in a calendar year containing active military service.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Board reinstatement after voluntary surrender
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board decision
Cannot practise until the Board, by majority vote, reinstates the authorisation; the Board may impose conditions before reinstatement. Section 40-1-150 itself names no examination.
Individual conditions
Surrender does not admit guilt or prevent discipline; comply with any restoration conditions and the separately applicable current licence requirements.
Prior surrender
Licence or registration voluntarily surrendered during an investigation.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Registered Barber

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Barber Examiners · Application information

Upgrade from completed registered apprenticeship

All of the following:

Already passed examinations
The current examinations passed for apprentice registration remain leaves; the upgrade form calls for supervisor certification rather than a new sitting.
Apprenticeship
Complete one year/1,920 hours under an actively licensed registered barber or master hair care specialist in licensed premises; provide signed supervisor attestation and the upgrade fee.
Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Initial issuance following high school training and supervised apprenticeship

All of the following:

Apprenticeship
After passing the examinations, practice as a registered apprentice for twelve months/1,920 hours under direct supervision; the Board requires the apprentice upgrade form and supervisor certification.
Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum age
At least seventeen years of age for unrestricted registration; apprentice registration begins at sixteen.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Track
Registered barber without chemical services.
Training
Board-approved high-school program: 1,540 hours; the Board examination form also asks for 1,500 hours at an approved school.
Initial issuance following ojt training and supervised apprenticeship

All of the following:

Apprenticeship
After passing the examinations, practice as a registered apprentice for twelve months/1,920 hours under direct supervision; the Board requires the apprentice upgrade form and supervisor certification.
Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum age
At least seventeen years of age for unrestricted registration; apprentice registration begins at sixteen.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Track
Registered barber without chemical services.
Training
Board-approved on-the-job training: 1,920 hours under a licensed barber instructor in licensed premises.
Initial issuance following school training and supervised apprenticeship

All of the following:

Apprenticeship
After passing the examinations, practice as a registered apprentice for twelve months/1,920 hours under direct supervision; the Board requires the apprentice upgrade form and supervisor certification.
Documents
Submit the Board application, applicable fee, identification, social security information, lawful-presence affidavit, photograph, training affidavit, and applicable name-change and criminal/disciplinary documentation.
Early testing
The Board permits early testing at 1,728 OJT hours, 1,386 high-school hours or 1,350 college hours; all training hours must be completed before apprentice registration.
Earn and learn
Section 40-1-77(J)(3) excludes apprenticeship programs established by state law; the barber apprenticeship in § 40-7-230 remains the controlling pathway.
Examination score
Pass both required NIC portions with a score of 70%; proof is required, and absent proof the Board requires reexamination.
Health
Provide the statutory physical examination and the tuberculosis certification required by Regulation 17-30; positive results require certification that the applicant is not contagious.
Military training
Under § 40-1-640, documented military education, training and experience are credited as favorably as possible; other licensure and examination requirements remain.
Minimum age
At least seventeen years of age for unrestricted registration; apprentice registration begins at sixteen.
Minimum education
At least ninth-grade education or equivalent.
Track
Registered barber without chemical services.
Training
Board-approved barber college or school: at least 1,500 hours over at least nine months.
Expedited reciprocity for a military spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board testing demand
The October 2022 Board instructions, requirement 4, state: 4. All applicants must have passed the National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) barber or barber styling examination. If you did not pass the NIC examination (theory and practical), you will be required to test in South Carolina as this state requires successful passing of the national examination to practice.
Documents
Complete application, fee, ninth-grade education evidence, licence verification, health certification and the supporting documents listed in the Board reciprocity instructions.
Experience
Licensed and actively practising during the preceding calendar year; provide the statutory notarized employer statements and the Board experience affidavit.
Law acknowledgment
Certify that the applicant has read, understands and will abide by Chapter 7 and its regulations.
License held elsewhere
Current barber licence in good standing from a state or country with requirements meeting or exceeding South Carolina requirements, as determined by the Board; apprenticeship licences are not accepted.
Military spouse
Married to and living with an active-duty member relocated to South Carolina by military orders; submit the expedited request, military orders, marriage evidence and licence verifications.
Source precedence
Section 40-7-300 commands issuance upon receipt of its enumerated documents and imposes no examination condition. Its terms control this route; the lower-ranked Board demand remains visible as an applicant condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by reciprocity from another state or country
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board testing demand
The October 2022 Board instructions, requirement 4, state: 4. All applicants must have passed the National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) barber or barber styling examination. If you did not pass the NIC examination (theory and practical), you will be required to test in South Carolina as this state requires successful passing of the national examination to practice.
Documents
Complete application, fee, ninth-grade education evidence, licence verification, health certification and the supporting documents listed in the Board reciprocity instructions.
Experience
Licensed and actively practising during the preceding calendar year; provide the statutory notarized employer statements and the Board experience affidavit.
Law acknowledgment
Certify that the applicant has read, understands and will abide by Chapter 7 and its regulations.
License held elsewhere
Current barber licence in good standing from a state or country with requirements meeting or exceeding South Carolina requirements, as determined by the Board; apprenticeship licences are not accepted.
Source precedence
Section 40-7-300 commands issuance upon receipt of its enumerated documents and imposes no examination condition. Its terms control this route; the lower-ranked Board demand remains visible as an applicant condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after more than three years of lapse
National Barber 1 (No Chemical) Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Pay the reinstatement fee, complete application, and provide required identification, photograph, lawful-presence and personal-history documentation.
Exam selection
The Board reinstatement form specifies the practical examination; the statute leaves the examination unspecified.
Lapse
Licence has expired for more than three years.
Reinstatement within three years of lapse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Lapse
Licence expired no more than three years ago; pay reinstatement fee and supply the Board reinstatement application and supporting documents.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Ordinary licence renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current license
Existing valid licence; submit renewal application and required fee by the applicable Board renewal deadline.
Military fee exemption
Section 40-1-620 exempts licence fees in a calendar year containing active military service.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Board reinstatement after voluntary surrender
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board decision
Cannot practise until the Board, by majority vote, reinstates the authorisation; the Board may impose conditions before reinstatement. Section 40-1-150 itself names no examination.
Individual conditions
Surrender does not admit guilt or prevent discipline; comply with any restoration conditions and the separately applicable current licence requirements.
Prior surrender
Licence or registration voluntarily surrendered during an investigation.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

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