The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Needs You!

Are you passionate about shaping the future of California's barbering and cosmetology industry? The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC) is looking for Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) like you to help develop fair, relevant, and up-to-date licensing exams.

The BBC regularly conducts occupational analyses and develops the written licensing examinations. These processes define what new licensees need to know and do to perform safely and competently on the job. To ensure exams reflect the real work done in salons and barbershops, we need experienced professionals from across California to provide insight.

SME Eligibility Requirements

To be considered, you must:

  • Hold a current California license
  • Actively work in a California-licensed establishment
  • Have no BBC violations in the past 5 years
  • Not be a school instructor or owner
  • Agree to comply with all applicable health and safety laws and regulations

Compensation & Reimbursement

  • $100 per workshop day
  • In-person workshops: Reimbursement for meals and approved travel (at state rates; allow 6–8 weeks for processing)
  • Remote/virtual workshops: No travel or meal reimbursement

Upcoming Opportunities

Project Workshop Type Dates Location License Type Needed
Hairstylist Exam Development Item Review May 14-15, 2025 Sacramento Hairstylist, Cosmetologist, Barber
Passing Score June 2025 Sacramento Hairstylist, Cosmetologist, Barber
Cosmetologist Occupational Analysis Review Task and Knowledge Statements May 21-22, 2025 Remote Cosmetologist
Review Results of Occupational Analysis September 17-18, 2025 Sacramento Cosmetologist
Note: Full-day attendance is expected for all workshops.

If the above projects don't match your license type, we encourage you to apply to be considered for future workshops.

Complete the application here!

Don't know your license number? Find it here.