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 SkilledTradesBC .

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.

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: