State Says SKIP the SCHOOLING For This Job!

A groundbreaking Iowa bill lets aspiring barbers and cosmetologists skip costly schooling by learning on the job under supervision and only two hours of sanitation instruction.

At a Glance

• House File 711 creates a supervised apprenticeship route requiring just two hours of sanitation training before trainees begin working
• The old requirement of 1,550 hours of formal education was slashed in March after already being reduced from 2,100 hours
• After 2,000 hours on the job, apprentices can choose to take the licensing exam
• Businesses participating must be registered and provide clients with written notice that services are by apprentices in training
• Critics warn the change could weaken standards in sanitation, chemical safety, and professional training

An On-the-Job Revolution

House File 711 signed by Governor Kim Reynolds, marks a national first: allowing barber and cosmetology trainees to skip school and begin working after only two hours of sanitation instruction. Instead of completing 1,550 hours of costly classes, apprentices now train directly in salons under licensed professionals. The old classroom requirement had already been reduced from 2,100 hours in 2023, but this new law eliminates it altogether for those opting for hands-on experience.

Economic Opportunity Meets Oversight

The law’s key feature is its 2,000-hour on-the-job training model, where apprentices can earn as they learn. Licensure is optional—trainees may take the exam but aren’t required to. Meagan Forbes of the Institute for Justice celebrated the move, saying it removes economic barriers for entry while preserving supervision and transparency. Registered salons must maintain sanitary conditions and clearly inform clients that their services may be performed by apprentices in training.

Watch a report: Aspiring barbers and cosmetologists in Iowa can now learn on the job instead of paying thousands.

Industry Response: Praise and Reservations

Supporters hail the reform as a pathway to opportunity. Craig Hunt, a barbershop owner involved in crafting the legislation, called it a victory for both workers and business owners. Lindsey Mollenhauer, a salon educator, added: “If anyone had a bad haircut… the license doesn’t necessarily speak to quality or craftsmanship.”

But not everyone is celebrating. Salon owner Madi Baxa criticized the move, warning that “a 25% decrease [in standards] and then to hammer in on this apprenticeship program… doesn’t make sense.” The Professional Beauty Association echoed concerns, emphasizing the importance of chemical safety, client protection, and formal training in sanitation.

A Model for Occupational Reform?

Iowa’s reform aligns with a broader national movement to dismantle burdensome occupational licensing barriers. Prior to HF 711, barbers required more training hours than EMTs or dental assistants. As the first state to implement such a model, Iowa’s success—or failure—will likely influence policy debates nationwide.

Whether this bold initiative elevates access and equity or compromises quality remains to be seen. What’s clear is that Iowa has placed itself at the center of the national conversation on balancing opportunity, oversight, and consumer safety in the professional beauty industry.