Action:
Barbers and Cosmetology Examination Eligibility Amendment
Action 7134
General Information
| Action Summary |
The regulatory action revises the examination eligibility requirements to provide less burdensome pathways for licensed cosmetologists to obtain a barber or master barber license through examination following changes to the cosmetology scope of practice enacted by Chapter 102 (HB 2669) of the 2025 Acts of Assembly. Effective July 1, 2025, HB 2669 removed shaving from the scope of practice of cosmetologists, limiting straight razor shaving services to licensed barbers.
The regulatory change allows individuals who were licensed as cosmetologists in Virginia prior to July 1, 2025, to qualify to obtain a barber or master barber license by passing only the practical examination, which tests the ability to perform in the occupation. This recognizes that these individuals were previously authorized to perform straight razor shaving prior to the statutory change and provides a less burdensome means of obtaining the appropriate barber license. The action also allows licensed cosmetologists with a minimum of one year of licensed work experience to qualify for the barber or master barber theory and practical examinations. Currently, cosmetologists are required to have a minimum of two years of licensed work experience to qualify for the master barber examination. The amendment provides an additional licensure option for experienced cosmetologists who wish to obtain a barber license rather than a master barber license.
The regulatory action also establishes a comparable examination pathway for licensed master barbers seeking cosmetology licensure. The amendments reduce the required licensed work experience from two years to one year for master barbers to qualify for the cosmetology theory and practical examinations.
The action also reduces the minimum amount of qualifying experience for those who have professional experience from service in the United States Armed Forces. The experience required for such individuals to sit for license examinations is reduced from two years to one year.
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| Chapters Affected |
Only affects this chapter.
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| Executive Branch Review |
This action will go through the normal Executive Branch Review process.
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| RIS Project |
Yes [8653] |
| New Periodic Review |
This action will not be used to conduct a new periodic review.
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Stages
Stages associated with this regulatory action.
| Stage ID |
Stage Type |
Status |
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11362
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Fast-Track
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Attorney General review is complete - Agency can submit to DPB. |
Contact Information
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Name / Title:
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Ashley Reed
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Executive Director
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Address:
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9960 Mayland Drive
Suite 400
Richmond, VA 23233
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Email Address:
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barbercosmo@dpor.virginia.gov
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Phone:
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(804)367-8590
FAX: (866)245-9693
TDD: ()-
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This person is the primary contact for this board.
