Although it is different from state to state, almost every one requires a person to attend some type of training program or apprenticeship to become a barber. You will need to be able to pass a state certification test before you can put up a barber pole or work on your own cutting men's hair. Here is a bit of information about barber training to help you reach your goal.

Training Program

You may choose to attend a community college and take the cosmetology course to ready yourself for barber certification. Of course,  you will end up learning a lot more about cosmetics than you will ever need as a barber, but that could be a good thing if you plan on expanding your business in the future. There are also barber training programs offered through technical or trade schools. You will take courses concerning the health and safety regulations as well as some courses about running your own business. You will also have a practical aspect to the training. In the beginning, you will work on wigs and mannequins, but as you learn the proper techniques you will start to work on actual people. Most training programs have a shop where customers can get a hair cut at a discounted price because everyone there is in training. After completing the number of hours the state requires for your training, you will be able to take a written and practical exam for your certification.

Apprenticeship

The other route to becoming a barber is through an apprenticeship. You will work with a certified, licensed barber for your training. While this type of training will not be as structured as going to some type of school, you will still learn everything you need to know in order to pass the certification tests. In addition, you may end up learning more techniques that are currently popular or trending. A good apprenticeship can be a great way to not only learn about hairstyles and care but will also give you a mentor you can turn to throughout your career for every aspect of being a barber and owning a business.

Which type of barber training you receive will be entirely up to you. Some people want to just go by the book and learn more easily when they study hard and have a set schedule for what and when they learn things. Others prefer a more free style of learning. These people may not be able to attend classes regularly due to family or work obligations, however, they can fit in a few shifts with their mentor every week.

For more information about barber training, contact a school like Deluxe Barber College.