Can You Style Or Cut Clients' Hair At Home Without A License?

5 July 2016
 Categories: , Blog

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For many amateur barbers and stylists, setting up shop in their home seems like a logical way to earn money. However, there are consequences from doing so that could prove to be costly for them. If you are an amateur barber or stylist who services clients in your home, here is what you need to know. 

Why Is Setting Shop Up at Home a Bad Idea?

Even though you can earn money styling and cutting clients' hair in your home, it does not mean you should. There are state laws that prohibit practicing cosmetology without obtaining the proper licensing. How strict your state's laws are can vary, but generally, if you receive compensation for styling or cutting hair and present yourself as a business, you could be at risk of facing legal problems. 

For instance, in the state of Texas, you could face up to a $1,000 fine for practicing without a license. If you continue, you could face additional fines. 

Why Should You Enroll in a Cosmetology Program?

Although you are skilled and have built up a clientele, the most important thing you can do is enroll in a cosmetology program. In the program, you will learn what is needed to pass the state's examination to become licensed. The requirements you have to complete to pass the cosmetology program and the state exam varies by state. To determine what the requirements are, contact your state's licensing board.

In addition to obtaining your license, there are many benefits to completing a cosmetology program that you could not otherwise enjoy without the license. For instance, with your license, you can purchase hair styling products in bulk from speciality stores. The items are sold to you at a discount, which you can then recommend and sell to your customers for a profit. You can supplement your home salon earnings without having to do more than be a trusted adviser to your clients. 

Getting a license can also open the door for setting up your own salon outside of your home. With your own outside salon, you can contract with other barbers and stylists and grow your business. Since the barbers and stylists have to pay you a chair or booth fee, you can earn a percentage of everything they earn. 

Contact a cosmetology program in your area to learn about the requirements for enrolling and to learn about financial aid to help you pay tuition. You can also explore the opportunities that will be available to you by obtaining your license. Contact a business, such as Eastern Hills Academy of Hair Design, for more information.