32 Best Barber Schools in Chicago Illinois: Licensing Steps

There many barbing schools in and near Chicago that you can choose to attend for your professional Barbering program.

Each of these programs has its unique features, however, they all lead to you having a barbering license so you can practice in the state of Illinois.

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The List of Barber Schools in Chicago Illinois

Without further ado, here is a complete list of the best barber schools in Chicago Illinois. 

# Cosmetology & Spa Academy  

Address 1: 700 East Terra Cotta Avenue

Crystal Lake, IL 60014 

Address 2: 609 South Randall Road

Elgin, IL 60123 

Address 3 – 142 East Golf Road

Schaumburg, IL 60173

Their knowledgeable instructors have received training all over the world, including London, Paris, Rome, Los Angeles, and New York. You will receive straight razor shaves, business retail training, facial treatments, and the most recent cutting and coloring techniques.

American Crew, Toni & Guy, and Sassoon Cutting are all included in their curriculum. After completing the program, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and abilities needed to become a prosperous barber with a stable income and flexible hours.

Make a statement by becoming a skilled barber with the knowledge you need to launch a successful career. 

You will receive a thorough education that includes both theory and 90% practical experience. After completing this program, you will be able to join the beauty industry as a fully functional employee and advance in your career. 

Tuition: $13,293 / year 

Click here for more information.

Also See: 13 Top Barber Schools in New York City|Tuition

# Denmark College  

Address 1: 214 South Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IN 60604 

Address 2: 8101 Polo Club Drive

Merrillville, IN 46410 

The Merrillville School of Barbering was established on the premise that no two students are alike. Their strategy is based on your flourishing creativity and constantly growing skill set. You will pick up the theory and skills that emphasize adaptability in everything from hair styling to business.

On day one, practical training begins. You will learn how to use your tools correctly, gain a basic understanding of cutting and facial hair grooming techniques, and practice in a classroom setting that is both safe and hands-on. 

Classroom instruction and hands-on training go hand in hand to introduce the fundamental abilities required to learn the craft of barbering and instill the knowledge required to pass the state exam.

Under the guidance of their instructors, you can practice in a real barbershop setting on the clinic floor.

You will learn how to operate a barbershop, give clients a variety of haircuts, and establish a professional customer service presence throughout the course of the program.

You can develop your skills, learn more inventive techniques, pick up speed, and gain the experience you need to enter a real shop right after graduation by working on the clinic floor. 

Tuition: $19,600

Click here for more information. 

# Tricoci University of Beauty Culture

Address 1,2 and 3: 6458 North Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL 60626. 5321 North Harlem Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656. 7350 West 87th Street, Bridgeview, IL 60455 

Address 4 & 5: 264 South Randall Road

Elgin, IL 60123. 530 East North Avenue

Glendale Heights, IL 60139 

Address 6 & 7: 2549 Highway Avenue

Highland, IN 46322. 751 East Park Avenue

Libertyville, IL 60048 

Mario Tricoci, a renowned figure in the beauty industry who built a hugely popular chain of upscale salons and day spas under the names “Mario Tricoci Hair Salon & Day Spa” and “Mario Tricoci, Too,” founded Tricoci University in 2004.

In order to introduce cutting-edge cosmetology and beauty school curriculum and give students advanced technical skills, ethics, professionalism, and leadership values, Mario created and launched a brand-new company, Tricoci University of Beauty Culture.

Salon owners are requesting that new technicians have a higher level of technical, customer service, and client-building skills due to the industry’s rapid growth.

TUBC is addressing this need by producing salon-ready professionals who are eager to begin their prosperous careers in cosmetology, esthetics, etc. through its beauty schools. 

Tuition: $13,105 / year 

Click here for more information. 

Also See: 22 Top Barber Schools in Arizona; Tuition & License Requirements 

# ABC School of Cosmetology and Nail Technology 

Address: 9213 South Illinois Route 31

Lake In The Hills, IL 60156 

The A.B.C.School of Cosmetology, Barber, Esthetics & Nail Technology Inc. works one-on-one with each student to support them in realizing their potential and developing into valuable members of the beauty industry.

Their instructors bring to the table the best abilities in the fields of cosmetology, make-up artistry, aesthetics, nail technology, business, and marketing to provide students with a well-rounded education.

A.B.C. School of Cosmetology, Barber, Esthetics & Nail Technology Inc. is at the forefront of the beauty industry thanks to flexible scheduling and hands-on instruction.

Their team of consultants and specialists strives to provide the best education and training, from beginner students to experienced technicians. 

The Barber Program Is a 1500-hour course of study that covers the subjects needed for both the Illinois State Board exam for professional licensure administered by the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and employment in the field.

The 1500 hours of training cover every aspect, including shaving, cuts, colors, and fades. From 2018 to 2028, barbers’ employment is expected to increase by 7.4%. 

Tuition: $2,659 / year

Click here for more information. 

# Bell Mar Beauty College  

Address: 5717 West Cermak Road, Cicero, IL 60804 

In the Chicago Metropolitan Area, in Cicero, Illinois, is the for-profit college known as Bell Mar Beauty. 34 undergraduate students are enrolled, making it a small school.

The Bell Mar Beauty has a 100% acceptance rate. Cosmetology, cosmetology education, and salon management are popular majors. 

Applicants to Bell Mar Beauty College must fulfill the following criteria in order to be considered:

  1. Age: You must be 16 years old or older. (High school students must have their present high school’s written consent.)
  1. Citizenship is not necessary in the United States.
  1. Education: A high school diploma or GED is required for federal financial aid.
  1. Interview: Ask all of your questions during a meeting with the enrollment director.
  1. Identification: You must present a legitimate form of identification, such as a state ID card, a driver’s license, or a passport from the United States or another country. 

Tuition: $8,771 / year 

Click here for more information.

# Capelli Salon Academy

Address: 333 East Rand Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60004

Capelli’s school of barbering, the most recent addition to the Academy, provides you with all the tools and training you need to excel in this demanding and incredibly rewarding career.

By immersing you in technical, business, and theoretical knowledge, they will equip you with all the skills you need to advance and succeed in this constantly changing and expanding industry. 

Tuition: N/A

Click here for more information. 

Also See: 12 Best Music Schools in Chicago-Tuition & Programs 

# Champions Beauty-Barber University

Address: 4374 East New York Street

Aurora, IL 60504 

CBBU was founded in 2015 and moved into its brand-new, cutting-edge 7,000 sq. ft. facility in Aurora in 2020 to offer cosmetology and barbering training. Graduates receive a diploma, after which they proceed to take the state barber or cosmetology exam.

If they pass with a score of 75% or higher, they are granted a license to practice as a barber or cosmetologist.

By teaching each student the craft of barbering and cosmetology and equipping them with the tools required to find employment in the barbering and beauty industries, their mission is to coach future barbers and cosmetologists to discover the creative champion in them.

Tuition: N/A

Click here for more information.. 

Also See: Over 20 Top Pottery Classes in Chicago-Cost & Duration 

# Don Roberts School of Hair Design

Address: 152 East U.S. Route 30

Schererville, IN 46375 

Their goal is to provide high-quality instruction, practice for state exams, and employment at Don Roberts School of Hair Design.

They prefer to keep matters personal. Their skilled teachers can deliver one-on-one, individualized instruction that you won’t find in prettier larger schools thanks to small class sizes and a focus on individual learning styles.

Since 1978, their privately owned beauty school has served the Northwest Indiana neighborhood. They have witnessed numerous changes over the years, including self-revamps in the beauty industry. They put a lot of effort into constantly changing in order to meet the needs of the market and get students ready for jobs in fields they find interesting. 

Requirements:

A high school diploma or GED is required for enrollment in this barbering program. Prior to starting classes, they must also complete a tour, observe a class, and complete an orientation.

Schedule and Hours:

There are 1500 clock hours in their barbering program. There are both full-time and part-time program options for scheduling. 

Tuition: $19,900

Click here for more information. 

Also See: 5 Top Lineman Schools in Illinois-Become a Lineman

# Douglas J Aveda Institute  

Address: 2828 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60657 

Douglas J Aveda Institute offers a beauty school education that will equip you for a future career in the beauty industry. They have courses in barbering, massage therapy, estheology, and cosmetology.

With schools in Chicago, Knoxville, and four other locations throughout Michigan, you can enter the beauty industry with unrivaled brands at your back.

There are several stages to this barber program’s structure. Your education in the science and background of barbering will be extensive during the first 13 weeks of class.

After those initial 13 weeks are over, your education will change to a more practical style, allowing you to begin working with actual clients while being supervised by qualified barbers. 

Tuition: $22,516 / year 

Click here for more information 

# Erskine Reeves Barber Academy 

Address: 552 Mannheim Road B, Hillside, IL 60162 

You will receive the best instruction from the Erskine Reeves Barber Shop in Hillside, Illinois, to develop your entrepreneurial barbering potential.

Schedules for their barber programs range from full-time, part-time, and night classes. They provide the programs for barbers, barber instructors, and refresher courses. They are a state-approved institution that offers a multicultural learning environment that will prepare you for success in the barber and beauty industries of today. 

Tuition: N/A

Click here for more information.. 

Other Barber Schools in Chicago Illinois

Barbering SchoolWebsite & Location Tuition 
G Skin & Beauty Institute  
Website
1200 Harger RoadOakbrook, IL 60523 
$24,415 / year 
Head Quarters Barber Academy 
 
Website

5131 West Madison StreetChicago, IL 60644
N/A
His & Hers Barber School 
Website

5355 West Madison StreetChicago, IL 60644 
N/A
Larry’s Barber College
 
Website 

701 East 79th Street #709Chicago, IL 60619
$17,290.00 
Legacy Barber College 
 
Website 
N/A
Lil Lou’s Beauty and Barber College
Website

4853 BroadwayGary, IN 46409 
5625 Hohman AvenueHammond, IN 46320  
$17,600.00 
Loricee’s Beauty & Barber Acadamy College 
Website

155 East 61st AvenueMerrillville, IN 46410  
N/A
Marvelous Beauty & Barber School 
Website

3301 North Lewis AvenueWaukegan, IL 60087 
N/A
McCoy Barber College 
 
Website

1901 East 79th StreetChicago, IL 60649
$3,847.00 
Midwest Barber Academy 
 
Website

465 West Boughton RoadBolingbrook, IL 60440
N/A
Networks Barber College  
 
Website

6534 South Ashland AvenueChicago, IL 60636 
508 Burnham AvenueCalumet City, IL 60409 
325 West 103rd StreetChicago, IL 60628
$27,580.00 
Pat’s Barber Shop/School 
 
Website

2846 Chicago RoadSouth Chicago Heights, IL 60411
N/A
Paul Mitchell The School Tinley Park
 
Website

18454 West Creek DriveTinley Park, IL 60477 
N/A
Phipps Academy of Barbering  
 
Website

144 East Lake Street Suite CBloomingdale, IL 60108
$18500.00 
Pivot Point Academy  
 
Website

144 East Lake Street Suite Bloomingdale, IL 60108
$11,140 / year 
Salon Posh Beauty School for Kids 
 
Website

1224 West Ogden Avenue Suite FNaperville, IL 60563
N/A
Sandra Rossi Education Center 
 
Website

264 West Rand RoadArlington Heights, IL 60004
N/A
Silk N Classy Barber College 
 
Website

8501 South Green StreetChicago, IL 60620
$5,000 
Steven Papageorge Hair Academy 
 
Website

3401 West Lawrence AvenueChicago, IL 60625
$17,950 
The Barber Academy  
Website

1815 West Golf RoadSchaumburg, IL 60194 
$3,299 
Trenz Beauty Academy  
 
Website

695 Wentworth AvenueCalumet City, IL 60409
$20,500 
Your School of Beauty Culture 
Website

116 East Pershing RoadChicago, IL 60653 
$10,000 
Barber Schools in Chicago Illinois

Benefits Of Becoming A Barber

If you have ever been in doubt as to whether there are benefits of advantages of becoming a barber, this section will help to clear your doubts. 

1. Barbers have stable employment

You will never have to worry about losing your job unless everyone’s hair magically stops growing. You can rest easy as a barber knowing that there will always be a demand for your abilities.

2. Barbers Can Work Anywhere

Barbers can make a living wherever they choose in the world, unlike many other professions that are heavily concentrated in particular regions of the country.

There will be jobs everywhere there is hair to cut, from big cities to small farming communities. 

3. Barbering is an outlet for creativity

As a barber, you work with hair as your canvas. You will have plenty of chances to practice brand-new barbering methods as well as the newest hairstyles, which are constantly evolving.

Every customer who enters your door represents a fresh chance to produce a work of art. The barbering industry will never get boring for those with a creative streak! 

4. Sense of Pride in Your Work

It should come as no surprise that when you invest the time and effort necessary to master your craft, you will feel rightfully proud of your accomplishments whenever you witness a happy client leave your shop looking better than they did when they first walked in.

Because you help people look and feel good about themselves, you will always know as a barber that you are having a positive impact on other people’s lives. 

How Much Money Do Barbers Make?

Your salary will increase as you put more effort into mastering your profession. Your earning potential is virtually limitless, unlike many other industries.

Finding a skilled barber who meets their needs can be difficult for clients, but once they do, they’ll probably stick with you for years and even recommend you to their friends!

You won’t ever have to be concerned about how much money you will be able to make when your work speaks for itself. 

How To Become A Barber In Illinois

Follow these instructions to learn how to get an Illinois barber license:

Step 1: Finish at least 1500 hours of barber training

The Board mandates that you first complete a training course from an accredited barber school that lasts at least 1500 hours.

Step 2: Submit a National Barbering Written Licensing Exam application.

You must take your written national barber license exam through the testing provider, Continental Testing Services (CTS). You need only finish the following actions to submit an application for this test: 

  • Include an official barbering transcript and documentation that you passed the last barbering exam.

  • Pay the exam fee of $127.00.

You must mail all application materials and supplemental materials to CTS at the following address:

Continental Testing Services, Inc.

PO Box 100

LaGrange, Illinois 60525-0100 

You will receive an email confirming CTS’s approval of your application, after which you have 60 days to arrange and take your exam.

Step 3: Achieve a passing score on the National Barbering Written Licensing Exam

Computers now administer the national written exam. This 90-minute written computer-based exam will assess your knowledge of a variety of barbering-related topics.

Step 4: Submit an Illinois Barber License Application.

You will receive an application for an Illinois barber license from CTS when they inform you that you passed the licensing exam.

Within five years of completing your barber training and one year of passing the national written exam, you must submit that application for an Illinois barber license. 

You must deliver your score report and application, as well as any license fees noted on the application, to the Illinois Board at the following address as soon as you receive them: 

  • Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
  • ATTN: Division of Professional Regulation
  • P.O. Box 7007
  • Springfield, IL 62791 

Step 5: Begin working as a barber and renew your license every two years.

After receiving your Illinois barber license, you have the option of working in neighborhood barbershops, salons that employ barbers or even starting your own barbershop.

You need a certificate of registration for a barbershop before you can open your own business. You need only download the Illinois Board of Barbering’s Salon/Shop Registration Instructions and Application form, read it, and then fill it out.

Every odd-numbered year, on July 31st, your license will expire. The Board will send you a notice of renewal, but it is your responsibility to complete the online renewal process. 

Career Opportunities For Barbers in Chicago

Take a look at the variety of careers available to students who complete barber college:

  1. Professional barber: Offer guests haircut, styling, and grooming services.
  1. Barbershop Owner: Run a company with a staff of skilled barbers and the potential to interact with customers.
  1. Celebrity Barber: Create big-screen and red-carpet looks for high-profile clients.
  1. Scalp and Skin Specialist: Help clients achieve a healthy, youthful skin tone by offering men’s skin care services.
  1. Brand Agent: Brand agents work closely with manufacturers to fully grasp and promote products, whether you’re working with a shampoo line, beard care items, or men’s skincare. 

Job Growth And Salary By the Bureau of Labor Statistics

In the upcoming ten years, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that barber jobs will grow significantly. Due to the growing interest in advanced hair treatments and the rising demand for hair care services, barber jobs are predicted to grow by 8% by 2028. 

As of August 29, 2022, the average barber salary in Illinois was $33,880; however, the typical salary range is between $27,274 and $40,801.

Salary ranges can vary significantly depending on the city and a number of other crucial factors, such as education, certifications, additional skills, and the length of time you have been in your profession. 

How long is barber school in Chicago? 

Depending on the qualification, this education training can take anywhere between 6.3 and 16 months to complete. 

How long does barber school take in Illinois? 

According to Illinois law, all applicants for barbering licenses must complete 1,500 hours of training. You may spread out your training over a minimum of nine months and a maximum of three years. 

How do I become a barber in Chicago? 

  • Finish at least 1500 hours of barber training.

  • Application for the National Barbering Written Licensing Exam should be submitted.

  • Successfully complete the National Barbering Written Licensing Examination.

  • Submit a barber license application for Illinois.
    • Get your license renewed. 

Do barbers need a license in Illinois? 

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation issues licenses to barbers in Illinois. 

How often do you have to renew your barber license in Illinois? 

Licenses for barbers, barber instructors, and barber schools in Illinois must be renewed every two years by July 31 of years with an odd number of digits. 

How do I transfer my barber license to Illinois? 

You must submit an application, along with proof of your license from your home state, proof of the hours and exams you passed there, transcripts from the barbering school you attended, and documentation of your employment, in order to be granted licensure in Illinois by endorsement. 

Can a cosmetologist use a straight razor in Illinois? 

The Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Hair Braiding, and Nail Technology Act, 225 ILCS 410, permits cosmetologists to perform neck shaving services using a straight razor. 

How much is it to renew a barber license in Illinois? 

Applications for barber license renewal must be submitted by July 31 of each odd-numbered year. Each time you renew your license, you must pay a $50 fee. 

Do you need a license to braid in Illinois? 

For those who choose to practice hair braiding professionally, Illinois has a separate specialist license.

You must complete a 300-hour training program at an authorized school in order to become a licensed hair braider in this state. 

How many questions are on the barber exam in Illinois? 

There are inquiries about chemical services, facial and shaving services, and scientific concepts. There are 50 questions on the exam in total. 

Do you have suggestions about the Barber Schools in Chicago Illinois? Please leave a comment below.

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