Become a Barber

About The Barber Association of South Dakota

The Barber Association of South Dakota exists to give barbers and future barbers of South Dakota the resources they need to succeed. Whether it’s helping you become a barber, furthering your knowledge, keeping your skills sharp, being a voice for the industry, or protecting the integrity and values of barbering, that is why BASD exists.

We’ll walk you through what it takes to become a barber.

You want to become a barber.

You’ve decided you want to become a barber. What Now?

Barbering is a fulfilling career with unlimited opportunities. Let’s take a look at why barbering is perfect for you.

Barbershops in America

Barbering in America has been growing at a steady pace for the past 5 years and is expected to continue growing into the future.

Industry Growth

Expected industry growth (2020-2030)

While the employment of barbers across the nation is steadily increasing so is the income. Barbers are an important staple in the community and are valued for their work. While these are common income levels, there is no limit on how much you make and many earn on the higher end of the spectrum.

Median Income

Hourly Income for Barbers (May 2021)

What makes being a barber so great?

Not many careers allow room for creativity but barbering is the opposite. The sky is the limit when it comes to creativity as a barber. Whether it’s a simple haircut or the craziest haircut you can imagine, that’s what makes being a barber so much fun.
Everyone likes to create their own schedules. Being a barber allows you flexibility in your schedule. Can’t work certain days? Don’t. Your schedule is up to you in most cases.
The sky is really the limit with barbering. You create your own success. If you put in the work you will succeed.
Like stated in the graphic above barbering is only expected to grow in the future and wages will increase. Barbers are staples in the community and everyone needs a good barber.

You’ve decided you definitely want to be a barber. Now what?

Once you’re ready to become a barber it’s important to become licensed. Licensing shows that you are serious about your craft and completed the necessary training and standards of your state or provincial government.

Let’s look at why getting your license is important.

Why do you need your license?

Safety

Safety is a very important aspect of being a barber. Unlicensed barbers may not have the necessary skills to give customers a safe, healthy haircut. By becoming licensed, you’re demonstrating your commitment to providing high-quality service and protecting your clients’ safety.
Assurance

Licensing shows you’re serious about your craft. This is important because it assures customers that they’re getting a quality haircut from someone who knows what they’re doing.
Stand Out

Being a licensed barber can help you stand out from the myriad of people simply cutting men’s hair.

License Requirements

The first thing you need to is to complete 1500 hours of schooling from a barber school. These schools will teach you many things such as hygiene, sterilization, haircutting, shaving and many more things to prepare you for your career as a barber.
After completing your schooling you will now apply and test for your license.
Take and pass the state practical and written tests to become a barber. These tests cover topics such as facial hair design, hair and scalp disorders, sanitation, and haircut and style. You must receive a 75% on both tests to receive your barber license.
Once you receive your license you are ready to go! Remember nothing worth doing in life is easy but it is worth it to get your license and practice as a safe and legal barber.