Georgia State Board Barber Exams: Free Practice Test, and Everything You Need to Know

Training as a Barber is tough. From shearing to facials, and from chemical waving to relaxing, there’s a whole lot to learn.

But… you did it!

You learned all you need to know to be a Master Barber, and you’re ready to build your very own client list.

And that’s exciting, right? After all, a career as a Barber is what you dreamed of.

But before you can all you’ll need is an official Barber’s license.

And that means passing the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers’ exams.

Sound scary? Well, don’t worry. On this page, you’ll find everything you need to know about scheduling and preparing for your Barbers exams, answers to all the most common questions, and a free practice test to check you’re prepared!

Go straight to the practice test

Step 1: Check you’re eligible to take the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers’ Barber exams

In Georgia, the talented professionals who are legally allowed to offer a full range of Barbering services are known as ‘Master Barbers’. And being a Master Barber takes more than just the ability to cut hair.

You have to be an artist, capable of creating the type of styles that will keep your clients’ looking dapper whatever the season. And you need to understand how to keep your customers safe when applying chemicals too.

So, it’s no surprise that you’ll need a license in order to ply your trade.

But before you can submit your license application, you must pass both a written theory and practical test.

And in order to be eligible to take these exams, you must:

  • Hold 1500 school hours in a minimum of 9 months
  • OR hold 52 Semester Credit Hours from an accredited state technical college encompassing the 1500 hours
  • Hold Master Cosmetologist licensee crossover hours plus 19 Semester Credit Hours from an accredited state technical college encompassing300 hours OR
  • Have completed 3,000 hours of training as an apprentice in a minimum of 18 months AND
  • Hold a high school diploma or GED

OK, so you’ve checked that you’re eligible to take your exams, what’s next?

Step 2: Schedule your theory exam

In the state of Georgia, all Cosmetology and Barbering exams take place at PSI centers. And that includes the Master Barber exams.

Now, if you completed your Barber training at a school or college, your education provider will inform PSI to let them know you have completed the required number of hours.

You will then receive an eligibility notice which allows you to book your exams.

This notice will contain important information like your ID number, along with instructions on how to book your exams- so it’s important that you keep it safe!

However, if you have completed your training via an apprenticeship, you will need to request permission to book your test yourself.

Luckily, this process is fairly straightforward.

All you need to do is send the following documents directly to the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers:

  •  All original transcripts of your completed hours AND
  •  A letter requesting that they supply you with  a ‘Letter of Eligibility’

There is no charge for the first request for the Letter of Eligibility; however, if you have to request a second time, there is a $25.00 fee.

Then, once you have your Letter of Eligibility, you are free to schedule your first exam.

The easiest method for booking your exams is via the PSI website.

And, to apply online, you will need to:

  1. Log onto the PSI website and create an account
  2. Select your written exam
  3. Enter the ID number
  4. Enter your zip code and select your examination center
  5. Choose from the available dates
  6. And finally, make a payment of $58 using a credit or debit card

Alternatively, you can schedule your exam:

Once you have booked your exam, be sure to make a note of the time and date so that you don’t miss your slot!

Step 3: Arrive at the exam center on exam day

You should arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled examination time to allow time to sign in and familiarize yourself with the exam process.

It is important to note that if you arrive late, you will not be allowed to sit your exam and your fees will be forfeited.

This means that you’ll need to rebook, and will have to pay your booking fee again.

When signing in at your test center, you will be asked to produce 2 forms of identification. One must be a government-issued identification (driver’s license, state ID, passport), which bears your signature and has your photograph. The second ID must have your signature and preprinted legal name.

The following forms of ID are acceptable:

Photo bearing ID:

  • US Government Issued Passport
  • State-issued driver’s license
  • US Government Issued Military Identification Card
  • State issued identification card
  • US Government Issued Alien Registration Card

Secondary ID:

  •  Credit Card (must be signed)

In the interest of security, and, of course, to prevent cheating, you will not be allowed to bring any of the following items into your test room:

  • Electronic devices
  • Bulky or loose clothing
  • Hats or headgear (except those worn for religious reasons)
  • Bags or purses
  • Notebooks or reference books
  • Food and drink
  • Writing implements
  • Good luck charms

When you arrive at the examination center, you will be told where to leave your bags and other personal items.  Then, it’s time to take your exam!

Step 4: Take the written theory exam

In the state of Georgia, the Master Barber theory exam is completed on a computer.

So, when it’s time to take your exam, you will be directed to a computer station. You will then be prompted to confirm:

  • Your name
  • Identification number
  • And the examination you are sitting

Next, you will be given 15 minutes to complete an introductory tutorial. This tutorial includes sample questions, but the time you take on this task doesn’t impact the amount of time you’ll have to complete your test.

When your test begins, you will have 90 minutes to answer multiple-choice questions covering:

  • Scientific Concepts (35%)
  • Implements and Equipment (10%)
  • Hair Care Services (40%)
  • Facial Hair and Skin Care Services (15%)

In Georgia, the Barber Theory test is developed by the National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC). This means that you can find a full breakdown of what will be covered in your exam here.

Step 5: Get your results

As soon as you complete your first exam, your results will appear on-screen. And an official score sheet will be printed for you to take away with you.

In order to pass your written exam, you must score at least 70%. And if you fail, you will need to book your test again.

However, try not to be disheartened. If you fail your exam, a diagnostic showing which questions you struggled with will show on screen, allowing you to concentrate your revision on areas you struggled with.

And don’t forget, our Barber preparation package can help you learn everything you need to know to pass next time.

OK, now you’ve taken your theory exam, it’s time to concentrate on your practical.

Step 6: Schedule your practical exam

Like the theory, your practical exam will take place at a PSI center, and the easiest way to schedule your exam is via the PSI website.

To do this you will need to:

  1. Log onto the PSI website
  2. Select your exam
  3. Enter your  ID number
  4. Enter your zip code and select your examination center
  5. Choose from the available dates
  6. And finally, make a payment of $89 using a credit or debit card

Alternatively, you can schedule your exam:

Then, once you have booked your exam, make a note of the time and date so that you don’t miss your slot!

Step 7: Arrive at the test center

Arriving at your exam center to take your practical exam is similar to taking your written test.

You should arrive 30 minutes early and will be asked to show your ID (don’t forget, if you’re late, you won’t be allowed to sit your exam and will forfeit your fee!).

However, there are some differences you should be aware of:

  • Students taking the practical exams are expected to wear closed-toe shoes and a smock/lab coat. If you don’t meet this requirement, you will not be allowed to sit your exam and your fee will be forfeited.
  • You will be expected to bring a mannequin and some clearly labeled supplies with you (a list of the supplies you’ll need can be found at the end of this document).

Step 8: Take your practical exam

After you have signed in and put away any prohibited items (like your purse and phone), it’s time to take your practical exam!

The examination will last for 155 minutes. And during your exam, you will be asked to demonstrate the following:

  • set up and client protection
  • haircutting
  • shaving with a straight razor
  • basic facial
  • blowdry styling
  • thermal curling
  • chemical waving
  • virgin hair lightening & hair color retouch
  • chemical relaxing, virgin, and retouch

Your examiner will read detailed instructions before each stage of the exam begins, and they will let you know when your time for each task is running out. However, can’t ask your examiner for any help with completing your tasks.

So, if you find yourself struggling, try taking a few deep breaths and just do your best!

Now, if you would like to read about each task in more detail, a full breakdown can be found.

Once your exam is finished, you’ll be directed to take a seat to wait for your results. This should only take 5-10 minutes.

Step 9: Get your results

After 5-10 minutes, you will be given a printed score report. The passing grade for your practical exam is 70%.

If you have passed both your theory and practical exams, you are now ready to apply for your license- congratulations!

However, if you didn’t score 70% or higher, you will need to book your test again.

Step 10: Apply for your Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers’ Master Barber license!

Now that you’ve passed both your written and practical exams, the only thing left to do is to get your license!

The cost of applying for a Master Barber license is $30. And you can either apply for your license online. Or if you prefer, you can download, complete, and post this application form to:

Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers,

237 Coliseum Drive,

Macon,

GA 31217

The most common reason for not getting your license is failing your written exams: However, students who use our Barber Exam Preparation Package has a pass rate of 98.5%!

Frequently asked questions about the Georgia State Board Master Barber exams

How do I apply for the Georgia State Board Barber exams if I am a school-based applicant?

If you have completed an approved Barber program through attending school or college, your education provider will inform PSI that you are eligible to take your tests.

You will then receive an eligibility notice containing your ID number along with instructions as to how to book your exams.

You must schedule your exams directly with PSI, which you can do:

How do I apply for the Georgia State Board Barber exams if I have studied via an apprenticeship?

If you have completed your training through an apprenticeship, you will need to request permission from the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers before you can schedule your exams.

To do this, you need to send all original transcripts of hours to the Board office, along with a letter requesting a ‘Letter of Eligibility’.

There is no charge for the first request for the Letter of Eligibility; however, if you have to request a second time, there is a $25.00 fee.

Once you have your Letter of Eligibility, you are free to schedule your first exam:

I can’t make the date/time of my examination. What should I do?

If you need to reschedule your examination, you must give at least 2 days’ notice. If you don’t give a minimum of 2 days notice, you may forfeit your exam fees.

How much does it cost to take the Georgia Barber exams?

  • Written Theory Test – $58
  • Practical Test – $89

Where do the examinations take place?

In Georgia, both the theory and practical exams for Barbers take place in PSI test centers.

How many hours of practical work do I need to qualify for the Georgia Barber exams?

If you have studied via a program at a school or college, you must have completed:

  • 1500 school hours in a minimum of 9 months OR
  • 52 Semester Credit Hours from an accredited state technical college encompassing the 1500 hours OR
  • Hold Master Cosmetologist licensee crossover hours plus 19 Semester Credit Hours from an accredited state technical college encompassing 300 hours

If you have trained as an apprentice, you must have completed:

  • 3,000 hours of training as an apprentice in a minimum of 18 months

Can I complete my hours through an apprenticeship instead of attending school in Georgia?

Yes, the state of Georgia recognizes apprenticeships for Barbers.

Can I take the examinations before I’ve completed the required hours?

No, you must complete your designated hours before you are eligible to take your exams.

How long is the written examination?

When you arrive at your exam center, you will have 15 minutes to complete a tutorial explaining how to sit your exam.

You will then have 90  minutes to answer a series of multiple-choice questions.

What’s the format of the written examination for Barbers in Georgia?

Your written exam will take place on a computer. It is comprised of multiple-choice questions and a breakdown of what the test includes can be found.

How long is the practical examination for Barbers in Georgia?

The practical examination lasts for 155 minutes.

What’s the format of the practical examination for Barbers in Georgia?

You will be given a set amount of time to demonstrate a range of different techniques needed for a career as a Barber.

What scores do I need to pass both of my Barber exams in Georgia?

  • Written Theory Exam – 70%
  • Practical Exam – 70%

Check if you’re on track to pass your exam by taking our free Barber practice test.

Can I take my Georgia Barber examinations again if I fail?

Yes, you are able to re-sit your exams again if you fail.

How long does Barber school take in Georgia?

The length of time it takes to complete Barber school in Georgia varies – especially if you are considering both full and part-time learning.

However, your program must last for a minimum of  9 months in order for you to be eligible to take your exams.

How long does a Barber apprenticeship take in Georgia?

In order to be eligible to take the Barber exams, your apprenticeship must last for a minimum of 18 months.

How do I transfer my Barber license to Georgia?

The state of Georgia endorses licenses from other states who have similar licensure requirements, as long as you have no disciplinary action against your license.

Currently, the Georgia State Board of Barbers does not endorse licenses from Alabama, California, District of Columbia, Hawaii, New York, Nevada, Oklahoma, or Washington. For all other states, an endorsement may be granted or denied on an individual basis.

To apply for endorsement, you must complete this form, and send it to:

GEORGIA STATE BOARD OF COSMETOLOGY AND BARBERS

237 Coliseum Drive

Macon, Georgia 31217

 You must also include:

  • An application fee of $75
  • Proof of ID
  • And verification of licensure from each state/country you are licensed in.

How do I get my Barber license in Georgia?

To get your Barber license in Georgia, you need to:

  • Complete 1500 school hours in a minimum of 9 months
  • OR hold 52 Semester Credit Hours from an accredited state technical college encompassing the 1500 hours
  • OR Hold Master Cosmetologist licensee crossover hours plus 19 Semester Credit Hours from an accredited state technical college encompassing 300 hours OR
  • Complete 3,000 hours of training as an apprentice in a minimum of 18 months AND
  • Pass two examinations (written and practical) AND
  • Submit a successful application with the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers

Once you have met all of these requirements, you will be issued with a license.

How do I renew my Barber license in Georgia?

In Georgia, you must renew your license every other year.

You will receive a reminder approx. 6 weeks before your license is due for renewal. And, once you have completed your mandatory training, you can apply to renew your license.

The cost of renewing your license is currently $50.

Georgia barber state board exam practice test

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