Barber / Montana
2026 data Montana board official source

Montana Barber License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Cuts and styles hair. Licensed in all 50 states and DC.

What the Montana data shows for Barbers

Montana's path to barber licensure runs through 1,378 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on State Barber Board Exam, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 16 can be licensed. Montana folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Barber School".

Upfront cost is $130, with renewal running $67 on a 2-year cycle. There's no continuing-education mandate tied to this profession in Montana, which keeps the long-run cost of staying licensed lighter than in CE-heavy states.

On reciprocity, barbers should know: Varies by state — check with state board.

Licensing Requirements in Montana

Education / Training Hours
Barber School
1,378 hours
Exam Requirement
State Barber Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$130
Renewal Fee
$67
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
16 years

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Barber All Montana licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Montana licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Barber in Montana? ▼
Montana's requirements cover 1378 hours of education or training, the State Barber Board Exam exam, and an initial fee of $130. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Barber in Montana? ▼
Montana licenses barbers who complete its requirements (1378 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Montana licensing board.
Can I transfer my Barber license to Montana from another state? ▼
For barbers, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Varies by state — check with state board. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Montana licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Montana require a background check for Barber licensing? ▼
Montana does require a background check before issuing a barber license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.