⚠ Important Information: Effective May 1st, 2025: Mandatory Certification for Specific Licenses.

Certified Barber Apprentice Program

JC

The Certified Barber Apprentice (CBA) program is a training program by the Jefferson County Barber Commission (JCBC) that allows a trainee, called an apprentice, to earn a wage while studying to become a barber under the supervision of a licensed and approved JeffCo Journeyman barber Barbershop Owner or the designated Registered Shop Operating Manager.

A contract, called indenture agreement, is drawn up between an approved Journeyman barber/owner and trainer, the program sponsor and CBA. Note: candidates enrolled in barber school within the past 24 months do not qualify for this program. This is a full-time, two-year, 3200 hour program. The CBA must be employed full-time (at least 32 hours a week) and receive supplemental instruction in a classroom. 

In order to qualify for the CBA program a person must:

  1. Be at least (16) years of age and have completed the 10th grade or its equivalency.

2. Have a valid social security (SSN) or tax payer identification (TIN) number

3. Complete the the Pre-Apprentice JCBC training course

4. Complete and submit a CBA application and for Approval of Trainer and Establishment and, pay the appropriate fee to the Board

5. Be able to commit to working a minimum of 32 hours a week (OJT)

6. Receive at least minimum wage from your trainer/employer

7. Have a Journeyman trainer with a valid license and an establishment with valid license where your training will take place. Your trainer and establishment cannot have outstanding fines.

To start the process of becoming a CBA, you will need to find a qualified trainer/establishment, complete the CBA contract. Pay the necessary fees. After completing the required 3200 Apprentice hours in a barbershop and the hours of supplemental training, you will apply for your professional barbers license. After passing the written and practical exam, you will receive your professional barber license and will no longer have to work as an apprentice.

As of February 14, 2024; please check with office for updated cost for CBA Program.

– Jefferson County Barber Commission

Note: An apprentice cannot work until an apprentice certification has been issued and is in the possession of the apprentice. Failure to obtain all approvals before working as an apprentice will subject the establishment owner, trainer and apprentice applicant to administrative citations and fines of up to 1000.00.

The certified barber apprentice form is a vital document in the barbering industry, delineating the structured training and development of aspiring barbers under experienced professionals’ guidance. It typically outlines the curriculum, practical experience hours, and theoretical knowledge necessary for completing the apprenticeship program successfully. By formalizing the apprenticeship process, it ensures comprehensive training covering haircutting techniques to customer service skills.

One significant aspect of the certified barber apprentice form is its role in maintaining industry standards and fostering professionalism within the barbering community. By adhering to a standardized curriculum and training framework, aspiring barbers can confidently acquire the requisite skills and knowledge to excel in their profession. Furthermore, this formalized apprenticeship process upholds quality standards in barbering services, ensuring clients consistently receive high-quality experiences at barbershops.

Moreover, the certified barber apprentice form plays a crucial role in regulatory compliance and licensing requirements within the profession. In many jurisdictions, completing a certified apprenticeship program is a prerequisite for obtaining a barber license. By documenting training hours and acquired skills, the form provides aspiring barbers with a clear pathway to meet these licensing requirements. This not only benefits individual barbers in pursuing their career goals but also enhances the overall integrity and credibility of the barbering industry.”

Previous JCBC Testing & Examination Guidelines

#543, 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N. #230, Birmingham, AL 35203

Mon – Wed: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

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