Virginia Barber License Exam — 2026/2027 | Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology (VBBC)
VIRGINIA BARBER LICENSE EXAM
2026/2027 Edition
100 Questions | Correct Answers & Detailed Rationales | VBBC-Aligned
Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology (VBBC) — Pearson VUE Testing
Regulatory Framework: Virginia Code §54.1-100 et seq. | 18VAC41-20 Regulations
OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard: 29 CFR 1910.1030 | EPA Disinfectant Guidelines
Eligibility: Age 16+ | 1,500-Hour Program or 3,000-Hour Apprenticeship | Background Check
Total Questions: 100 | Passing Score: 70% (70/100) | Testing Time: ~120 minutes
Question Types: Single-Best-Answer, Select-All-That-Apply (SATA), Scenario-Based
Section Question Range Points
Virginia Licensing Law & 1–10 10
Regulations
Sanitation & Infection Control 11–20 10
Safety & Health Practices 21–28 8
Virginia Scope of Practice 29–38 10
Client Consultation & A&P 39–50 12
Barbering Techniques & 51–62 12
Procedures
Chemical Safety & Product 63–72 10
Knowledge
Business Operations & Ethics 73–85 13
Emergency Procedures & First 86–95 10
Aid
Scenario-Based Integration 96–100 5
TOTAL 1–100 100
VIRGINIA LICENSING LAW & REGULATIONS
1. Under Virginia Code §54.1-100, which board has the authority to regulate the practice of
barbering in the Commonwealth of Virginia?
Type: single-best-answer
A) Virginia Department of Health
B) Board of Barbers and Cosmetology
C) Virginia Board of Medicine
D) State Council of Higher Education
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, Virginia Barber License Exam — 2026/2027 | Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology (VBBC)
Correct Answer: B) Board of Barbers and Cosmetology
Rationale: Virginia Code §54.1-100 establishes the Board of Barbers and Cosmetology within the
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) as the regulatory authority over
barbering, cosmetology, and related professions in Virginia.
2. According to 18VAC41-20, what are the three main types of barber-related licenses issued
in Virginia?
Type: single-best-answer
A) Barber, Barber Instructor, and Barber Shop
B) Barber, Master Barber, and Barber Apprentice
C) Barber, Cosmetologist, and Barber Shop Manager
D) Barber Technician, Barber Instructor, and Barber Salon
Correct Answer: A) Barber, Barber Instructor, and Barber Shop
Rationale: 18VAC41-20-40 specifies that the Board issues three types of licenses relevant to
barbering: a barber license, a barber instructor license, and a barber shop license. These are the official
categories recognized by the Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology.
3. Under 18VAC41-20, how often must a Virginia barber license be renewed?
Type: single-best-answer
A) Annually
B) Biennially (every two years)
C) Every three years
D) Every five years
Correct Answer: B) Biennially (every two years)
Rationale: 18VAC41-20-50 requires that all barber licenses in Virginia be renewed biennially (every
two years). The renewal period is based on the licensee's birth month, and renewal must be completed
by the last day of the birth month to remain active.
4. How many hours of continuing education (CE) must a licensed barber complete per
renewal cycle in Virginia?
Type: single-best-answer
A) 2 hours
B) 4 hours
C) 8 hours
D) 12 hours
Correct Answer: B) 4 hours
Rationale: Per 18VAC41-20-60, a licensed barber in Virginia must complete a minimum of 4 hours of
continuing education during each biennial renewal cycle. The CE must cover topics approved by the
Board, including sanitation and infection control, to ensure ongoing competency.
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, Virginia Barber License Exam — 2026/2027 | Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology (VBBC)
5. Marcus is 15 years old and wants to enroll in a barber training program in Richmond,
Virginia. He has his parent's written consent and has already graduated high school early.
Can Marcus legally enroll in a Virginia barber school?
Type: scenario-based [Scenario-Based]
A) Yes, because he has parental consent and a high school diploma
B) Yes, because he can begin a barber apprenticeship at any age with parental consent
C) No, because Virginia law requires a minimum age of 16 for barber licensure
D) No, because he must be at least 18 years old to enroll
Correct Answer: C) No, because Virginia law requires a minimum age of 16 for barber
licensure
Rationale: Under 18VAC41-20-90, an applicant for a barber license in Virginia must be at least 16
years of age. Even with parental consent and a high school diploma, Marcus cannot legally enroll in a
barber training program or pursue licensure until he turns 16. Age 18 is not the minimum; 16 is.
6. What are the two approved pathways to qualify for a Virginia barber license under
18VAC41-20?
Type: single-best-answer
A) 1000-hour school program or 2000-hour apprenticeship
B) 1500-hour school program or 3000-hour apprenticeship
C) 2000-hour school program or 4000-hour apprenticeship
D) 1200-hour school program or 2500-hour apprenticeship
Correct Answer: B) 1500-hour school program or 3000-hour apprenticeship
Rationale: 18VAC41-20-100 specifies two routes to barber licensure in Virginia: (1) completion of a
1500-hour approved barber training program at a licensed barber school, or (2) completion of a 3000-
hour registered barber apprenticeship under a licensed barber instructor. Both pathways require the
applicant to pass the Board-approved examination.
7. Which of the following are required when applying for a barber license in Virginia?
(Select all that apply.)
Type: SATA [Select All That Apply]
A) Proof of completion of a 1500-hour program or 3000-hour apprenticeship
B) A passing score on the Board-approved written and practical examinations
C) Payment of the required application and licensure fees
D) A background check disclosure as required by Virginia Code §54.1-204
E) A valid cosmetology license
Correct Answer: A, B, C, D
Rationale: Under 18VAC41-20-100 and Virginia Code §54.1-204, applicants for a Virginia barber
license must provide proof of education (1500-hour program or 3000-hour apprenticeship), pass both
written and practical Board examinations, pay all required fees, and submit to a criminal background
check disclosure. A cosmetology license (E) is not required for barber licensure, as barbering and
cosmetology are separate license types.
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, Virginia Barber License Exam — 2026/2027 | Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology (VBBC)
8. If a Virginia barber license expires, how long does the licensee have to reinstate it without
having to retake the Board examination?
Type: single-best-answer
A) 30 days
B) 6 months
C) 1 year
D) 2 years
Correct Answer: C) 1 year
Rationale: Under 18VAC41-20-60 and DPOR reinstatement policy, a barber whose license has expired
may reinstate it within 1 year by submitting a reinstatement application, paying the reinstatement fee
(which is higher than the renewal fee), and providing proof of completed continuing education. After 1
year of expiration, the individual must reapply and may be required to retake the Board examination.
9. A barber apprentice in Virginia registered under the 3000-hour apprenticeship program
must be supervised by:
Type: single-best-answer
A) Any licensed barber with at least 2 years of experience
B) A licensed barber instructor only
C) A barber shop owner or manager
D) Any individual holding a valid barber license
Correct Answer: B) A licensed barber instructor only
Rationale: 18VAC41-20-110 requires that a registered barber apprentice in Virginia receive
supervision from a licensed barber instructor. The instructor is responsible for maintaining training
records, ensuring the apprentice receives proper instruction in all required areas, and signing off on
completed hours. This ensures quality and accountability in the apprenticeship pathway.
10. What must be displayed conspicuously in a Virginia-licensed barber shop?
Type: single-best-answer
A) The barber's personal business card only
B) The current barber shop license and each individual barber's license
C) The shop's menu of services and prices only
D) A copy of the Virginia Constitution
Correct Answer: B) The current barber shop license and each individual barber's license
Rationale: 18VAC41-20-200 requires that every licensed barber shop in Virginia conspicuously
display the current barber shop license issued by the Board. Additionally, each barber practicing in the
shop must have their individual license displayed or readily available for inspection by the public and
Board representatives. Failure to display licenses may result in disciplinary action.
SANITATION & INFECTION CONTROL
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VIRGINIA BARBER LICENSE EXAM
2026/2027 Edition
100 Questions | Correct Answers & Detailed Rationales | VBBC-Aligned
Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology (VBBC) — Pearson VUE Testing
Regulatory Framework: Virginia Code §54.1-100 et seq. | 18VAC41-20 Regulations
OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard: 29 CFR 1910.1030 | EPA Disinfectant Guidelines
Eligibility: Age 16+ | 1,500-Hour Program or 3,000-Hour Apprenticeship | Background Check
Total Questions: 100 | Passing Score: 70% (70/100) | Testing Time: ~120 minutes
Question Types: Single-Best-Answer, Select-All-That-Apply (SATA), Scenario-Based
Section Question Range Points
Virginia Licensing Law & 1–10 10
Regulations
Sanitation & Infection Control 11–20 10
Safety & Health Practices 21–28 8
Virginia Scope of Practice 29–38 10
Client Consultation & A&P 39–50 12
Barbering Techniques & 51–62 12
Procedures
Chemical Safety & Product 63–72 10
Knowledge
Business Operations & Ethics 73–85 13
Emergency Procedures & First 86–95 10
Aid
Scenario-Based Integration 96–100 5
TOTAL 1–100 100
VIRGINIA LICENSING LAW & REGULATIONS
1. Under Virginia Code §54.1-100, which board has the authority to regulate the practice of
barbering in the Commonwealth of Virginia?
Type: single-best-answer
A) Virginia Department of Health
B) Board of Barbers and Cosmetology
C) Virginia Board of Medicine
D) State Council of Higher Education
Page 1
, Virginia Barber License Exam — 2026/2027 | Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology (VBBC)
Correct Answer: B) Board of Barbers and Cosmetology
Rationale: Virginia Code §54.1-100 establishes the Board of Barbers and Cosmetology within the
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) as the regulatory authority over
barbering, cosmetology, and related professions in Virginia.
2. According to 18VAC41-20, what are the three main types of barber-related licenses issued
in Virginia?
Type: single-best-answer
A) Barber, Barber Instructor, and Barber Shop
B) Barber, Master Barber, and Barber Apprentice
C) Barber, Cosmetologist, and Barber Shop Manager
D) Barber Technician, Barber Instructor, and Barber Salon
Correct Answer: A) Barber, Barber Instructor, and Barber Shop
Rationale: 18VAC41-20-40 specifies that the Board issues three types of licenses relevant to
barbering: a barber license, a barber instructor license, and a barber shop license. These are the official
categories recognized by the Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology.
3. Under 18VAC41-20, how often must a Virginia barber license be renewed?
Type: single-best-answer
A) Annually
B) Biennially (every two years)
C) Every three years
D) Every five years
Correct Answer: B) Biennially (every two years)
Rationale: 18VAC41-20-50 requires that all barber licenses in Virginia be renewed biennially (every
two years). The renewal period is based on the licensee's birth month, and renewal must be completed
by the last day of the birth month to remain active.
4. How many hours of continuing education (CE) must a licensed barber complete per
renewal cycle in Virginia?
Type: single-best-answer
A) 2 hours
B) 4 hours
C) 8 hours
D) 12 hours
Correct Answer: B) 4 hours
Rationale: Per 18VAC41-20-60, a licensed barber in Virginia must complete a minimum of 4 hours of
continuing education during each biennial renewal cycle. The CE must cover topics approved by the
Board, including sanitation and infection control, to ensure ongoing competency.
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, Virginia Barber License Exam — 2026/2027 | Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology (VBBC)
5. Marcus is 15 years old and wants to enroll in a barber training program in Richmond,
Virginia. He has his parent's written consent and has already graduated high school early.
Can Marcus legally enroll in a Virginia barber school?
Type: scenario-based [Scenario-Based]
A) Yes, because he has parental consent and a high school diploma
B) Yes, because he can begin a barber apprenticeship at any age with parental consent
C) No, because Virginia law requires a minimum age of 16 for barber licensure
D) No, because he must be at least 18 years old to enroll
Correct Answer: C) No, because Virginia law requires a minimum age of 16 for barber
licensure
Rationale: Under 18VAC41-20-90, an applicant for a barber license in Virginia must be at least 16
years of age. Even with parental consent and a high school diploma, Marcus cannot legally enroll in a
barber training program or pursue licensure until he turns 16. Age 18 is not the minimum; 16 is.
6. What are the two approved pathways to qualify for a Virginia barber license under
18VAC41-20?
Type: single-best-answer
A) 1000-hour school program or 2000-hour apprenticeship
B) 1500-hour school program or 3000-hour apprenticeship
C) 2000-hour school program or 4000-hour apprenticeship
D) 1200-hour school program or 2500-hour apprenticeship
Correct Answer: B) 1500-hour school program or 3000-hour apprenticeship
Rationale: 18VAC41-20-100 specifies two routes to barber licensure in Virginia: (1) completion of a
1500-hour approved barber training program at a licensed barber school, or (2) completion of a 3000-
hour registered barber apprenticeship under a licensed barber instructor. Both pathways require the
applicant to pass the Board-approved examination.
7. Which of the following are required when applying for a barber license in Virginia?
(Select all that apply.)
Type: SATA [Select All That Apply]
A) Proof of completion of a 1500-hour program or 3000-hour apprenticeship
B) A passing score on the Board-approved written and practical examinations
C) Payment of the required application and licensure fees
D) A background check disclosure as required by Virginia Code §54.1-204
E) A valid cosmetology license
Correct Answer: A, B, C, D
Rationale: Under 18VAC41-20-100 and Virginia Code §54.1-204, applicants for a Virginia barber
license must provide proof of education (1500-hour program or 3000-hour apprenticeship), pass both
written and practical Board examinations, pay all required fees, and submit to a criminal background
check disclosure. A cosmetology license (E) is not required for barber licensure, as barbering and
cosmetology are separate license types.
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, Virginia Barber License Exam — 2026/2027 | Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology (VBBC)
8. If a Virginia barber license expires, how long does the licensee have to reinstate it without
having to retake the Board examination?
Type: single-best-answer
A) 30 days
B) 6 months
C) 1 year
D) 2 years
Correct Answer: C) 1 year
Rationale: Under 18VAC41-20-60 and DPOR reinstatement policy, a barber whose license has expired
may reinstate it within 1 year by submitting a reinstatement application, paying the reinstatement fee
(which is higher than the renewal fee), and providing proof of completed continuing education. After 1
year of expiration, the individual must reapply and may be required to retake the Board examination.
9. A barber apprentice in Virginia registered under the 3000-hour apprenticeship program
must be supervised by:
Type: single-best-answer
A) Any licensed barber with at least 2 years of experience
B) A licensed barber instructor only
C) A barber shop owner or manager
D) Any individual holding a valid barber license
Correct Answer: B) A licensed barber instructor only
Rationale: 18VAC41-20-110 requires that a registered barber apprentice in Virginia receive
supervision from a licensed barber instructor. The instructor is responsible for maintaining training
records, ensuring the apprentice receives proper instruction in all required areas, and signing off on
completed hours. This ensures quality and accountability in the apprenticeship pathway.
10. What must be displayed conspicuously in a Virginia-licensed barber shop?
Type: single-best-answer
A) The barber's personal business card only
B) The current barber shop license and each individual barber's license
C) The shop's menu of services and prices only
D) A copy of the Virginia Constitution
Correct Answer: B) The current barber shop license and each individual barber's license
Rationale: 18VAC41-20-200 requires that every licensed barber shop in Virginia conspicuously
display the current barber shop license issued by the Board. Additionally, each barber practicing in the
shop must have their individual license displayed or readily available for inspection by the public and
Board representatives. Failure to display licenses may result in disciplinary action.
SANITATION & INFECTION CONTROL
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