Illinois is the perfect place to start if you are considering a future in barbering. The industry is always growing and offering a variety of opportunities that could better prepare you for your future. Becoming a licensed barber is a great way to become your own boss and start your own business. 

At Pivot Point Academy our industry-leading education allows you to refine the technical skills you need to become successful. Our curriculum gives you the tools, knowledge, and experience to keep up with industry trends. Read our guide on how to get started and get a barber license in Illinois.

Complete a Barber Training Program

You must become licensed with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Board of Barbering. It is important to follow Board regulations and barber licensing standards. In the state of Illinois you must complete a minimum of 1500 hours of barber training. 

Pivot Point Academy has developed a 1500-clock hour barber program to meet state requirements. Our instructors can teach you everything you need to know about the men’s market of grooming. That way you can feel more confident when it comes to applying for the Illinois licensing exam. 

Sit for the Illinois State Exam

Once you complete your barber curriculum at an Illinois school of your choice, you can submit an application for the national barbering written licensing exam. The exam tests your knowledge of barbering and what you have learned in school. Here are some topics you can expect to be mentioned on the exam:

• Hair Care
• Hair and Scalp
• Haircutting and Styling
• Facial Hair Design
• Infection Control
• Skin Histology
• And More!

The exam testing site will be located in several Illinois cities. So whether you are hoping to schedule your test in Chicago or Springfield, you have the choice to choose the most convenient location for you. 

Once you have successfully completed the licensing exam, you must submit an application within 5 years of completing your training for your Illinois barber license. It must be within that year of passing your written exam as well. 

Explore Funding and Scholarship Opportunities

If you aren’t sure on how to pay for barber school, no worries! We have options for you that can assist you with tuition costs. At Pivot Point Academy, we want to help students achieve their dreams and do all we can to support them. One of our goals is to make the funding process easier for you.

Check out some of the scholarships we have to make your education more affordable! We also offer financial aid to those who qualify. Complete the application online and call our admissions office for further assistance. 

Barber Curriculum

During your training, you are expected to complete the course requirements that are required by the board in order to receive your license. Here are some of the courses that you must complete:

• Haircutting and Styling
• Facial and Scalp Massage
• Barber History
• Treatment of Hair and Scalp
• Barber Management 
• Shaving and Facial Hair Design
• Hair Coloring and Lightening
• Bacteriology
• Chemistry
• Chemical Texture Services
• Illinois Laws, Rules, and Regulations
• Worker’s Compensation Act
• Implements, Tools, and Equipment
• Infection Control and Safe Work Practices
• And More! 

Once you complete the course work and the required amount of hours, you are going to need to complete the final exam on your knowledge of hair cutting, shaving, sanitation, and infection control. Once you pass the exam with a 75% score, you can sit for the official licensing exam. 

Discover Future Possibilities

A future in barbering can open the door to a lot of exciting opportunities. Here are a list of possible career options to choose from:

• Barbershop Owner
• Barber School Educator
• Barbering Product Developers
• Personal Care Services
• Theatre Productions
• Freelancing
• Weddings and Events
• And More!

No matter what path you choose as a barber professional, you can work in a rewarding creative and growing industry, enjoy flexible hours, and become your own boss. 

Start Your Barber Journey at Pivot Point Academy

When you enroll in our barber program at Pivot Point Academy, you can expect to not only learn technical skills, but also come out confident in business and marketing. Become industry-ready with our business training courses that include Beauty as a Business (BAAB) and Prosper You. We offer a three-phase program to help you feel more confident in your skills. Here is what you can look forward to during your education:

• Phase 1: Craftsmanship of Barbering
• Phase 2: Enhance Craftsmanship of Barbering
• Phase 3: Getting Ready for the Shop Life

Get the experience you need to become successful and build your future clientele. If we sound like the right school for you, then schedule a tour at our Bloomingdale campus. A tour is a great way to see what our school has to offer. Contact us today to learn how to get started.