Skills, Education and Experience

• some secondary school education is required
• completion of a two- or three-year hairstyling apprenticeship program or completion of a college or other program in hairstyling combined with on-the-job training is usually required
• several years of experience may replace formal education and training
• employers may require applicants to provide a hairstyling demonstration before being hired

This occupation is not regulated in British Columbia.

Certification is currently not mandatory to work as a hairstylist in BC.  However, you may choose to become certified as a hairstylist by completing the Hairystylist program approved through the Industry Training Authority (ITA) .

There are 2 pathways to achieving a Hairstylist Certificate of Qualification: complete the apprenticeship training program, or, if you have significant work experience, apply to write the Interprovincial Red Seal written examination and take the practical assessment.

For more information see:

• Industry Training Authority

The BC Beauty Council is a voluntary professional trade association in BC. The BC Beauty Council administers a written hairdresser theory exam and practical examination to grant their Certificate of Qualification. Note that this certification is not government-issued and is not recognized in other provinces.

For more information see: