How To Become a Certified Barber in New Mexico

If you’re looking for a door leading to more career opportunities, good pay, and the possibility of entrepreneurship, consider becoming a certified barber. It’s a rewarding career that lets you help customers feel more confident and happy, and you get to enjoy many positive human connections along the way. This blog will help you understand New Mexico’s certification process, as well as how to prepare. And if you would like to enroll in the best barber school in Albuquerque, get in touch.

Taking the Barber Certification Test in New Mexico

Test Dates and Fees

In New Mexico, the certification test is managed by a state-approved board that oversees the licensing process. Testing centers located in various parts of the state administer the exam, allowing candidates to choose a location that best fits their schedule. The test takes place several times throughout the year, and you may find that the dates and locations are announced on the state board’s website. There is a fee associated with the exam, and its cost may vary based on the testing center. This fee covers administrative expenses and helps maintain the testing infrastructure. Some candidates have the opportunity to take additional tests if they wish to advance their careers further, such as becoming licensed instructors or branching out into cosmetology.

According to the state’s website, you can schedule your exam by emailing: cosandbar@pcshq.com

The Test Itself

The certification test itself is structured to evaluate both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The exam includes a written component that examines topics such as sanitation, state regulations, and the theory behind haircutting and grooming. Candidates receive questions that test their understanding of sanitation protocols, health and safety guidelines, and even business practices that affect day-to-day operations in a barber shop. The material emphasizes state-specific regulations as well as fundamental barbering techniques. Note that the written section challenges them to think about the theoretical background behind each skill they perform on a daily basis.

Alongside the written portion, a hands-on section forms an important part of the certification test. During this part of the exam, candidates demonstrate their proficiency in cutting, trimming, and styling hair. They might also be asked to perform shaving techniques and to display their ability to maintain clean and safe working conditions. The practical test evaluates manual dexterity, attention to detail, and an understanding of client safety. Some candidates report that the test simulates the environment of a busy barber shop, making it a realistic preview of what to expect in their careers. For those who wish to pursue teaching or cosmetology, additional tests cover topics specific to these areas, offering a path to broaden your service offerings and take on mentorship roles in the industry.

How To Prepare For Becoming a Certified Barber

Go to a Respected Barber School

If you attend a well-regarded barber school to prepare for both the certification test and the realities of a busy career, you’ll be far ahead of folks who try to self-learn. At Kings Barber College here in Albuquerque, students benefit from practical instruction and exposure to the latest techniques in barbering. You work directly with professionals who have years of experience in the field. You get the opportunity to practice in a dedicated barber shop environment, where instructors and experienced barbers guide you through various cutting and styling methods. This approach not only helps you gain technical skills but also allows you to connect with local shops and salons, which may open doors to job opportunities after graduation.

The training at Kings Barber College focuses on both the art and the business of barbering. Students take part in work-study programs that provide real-world experience alongside their classroom lessons. The program offers flexible class hours to fit a variety of schedules, making it easier for those who need to balance work, family, or other commitments while pursuing their certification. For individuals who wish to complete their training in a shorter period, fast-track options provide an accelerated path to certification. Instructors share their experiences and insights during hands-on sessions, and the school frequently hosts events that connect students with professionals in the industry. This network of contacts and mentors plays an important role in helping graduates start successful careers as barbers.

Our curriculum also includes instruction on the business side of running a barber shop. Topics such as client management, marketing, and basic financial practices prepare you to manage a business when you are ready to open your own shop. Learning these skills helps you not only to work in established shops but also to consider entrepreneurship when the time comes. The blend of technical training and business instruction makes the program a well-rounded experience for anyone interested in a future as a certified barber in New Mexico.

Consider Crossover Training in Cosmetology

While many barbers focus solely on hair cutting and grooming, some choose to expand their skills by obtaining a cosmetology license. Kings Barber College has a sister location, Queens Cosmetology School, where we often help barbers prepare for cosmetology licensing.

Crossover training in cosmetology introduces you to techniques that go beyond the barber chair. If you decide to pursue this path, you will learn about skin care, makeup application, and nail care. The additional training covers a range of topics that complement your existing barber skills, enabling you to offer a broader array of services. This broader training might involve extra classroom hours, practical sessions in a cosmetology lab, and separate examinations tailored to these disciplines.

The process of earning a cosmetology license follows a structure similar to that of a barber certification. You attend classes that cover theory and practice, and you participate in hands-on training that demonstrates your ability to perform additional beauty services. The training provides you with an understanding of various techniques that are useful in the cosmetology field. For example, you learn how to work with different hair textures, apply professional makeup, and manage skin treatments. This additional expertise can make you a more versatile professional. Many clients appreciate a service provider who can meet multiple needs, and some employers prefer candidates who have a diverse skill set.

Obtaining a cosmetology license may also open up career opportunities in environments that require a wide range of beauty services. You may find work in upscale salons, spas, or even on movie sets where a variety of beauty treatments are necessary. The knowledge you gain from crossover training enhances your credibility and may allow you to charge higher fees for a wider range of services. While the process involves a greater investment of time and money, the benefits of being able to offer more than standard barber services can be very appealing to both clients and employers.

Get Certified and Unlock a New Career

The journey to becoming a certified barber in New Mexico involves both testing and rigorous preparation. The certification test comprises written and practical elements that test your knowledge and skills in a realistic setting. Many aspiring barbers choose to prepare by attending respected institutions such as Kings Barber College in Albuquerque, where you receive hands-on training, business instruction, and valuable connections within the community. For those interested in broadening their career options, crossover training in cosmetology provides additional skills that lead to a diverse professional profile. With dedication, practice, and the right educational environment, you can build a fulfilling career that allows you to work creatively while serving clients across the state.