Lavish Academy FAQ
Lavish Academy: Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers about our program, the barbering permit, and what to expect. If your question isn't here, reach out — we'd rather you ask now than wonder later.
Do I need experience to start?
No. The Intro to Barbering class is open to everyone, from total beginners to people who've been cutting for years. Just know that the apprenticeship moves fast — 130 hours is a short runway for a real craft — so if you're starting from zero, come ready to work. It's doable. It's just not a free ride.
How do I become an apprentice?
Everyone starts with the Intro to Barbering class ($250). It's required, and it's where we get to know your hands, your work ethic, and your goals. From there, we select apprentices based on talent, coachability, and drive. Not selected yet but serious about it? The optional Intermediate class ($250) gives you a second opportunity to show us what you've got.
Why are there only two apprentice seats?
By Utah law, a supervising barber can mentor no more than two permit apprentices at a time, with one-on-one supervision. We take that seriously — every barber we train carries our name out into the world, so we'd rather go deep with two people than spread thin across ten. Seats are limited and selection is competitive.
Is the barbering permit a real, state-recognized credential?
Yes. It's issued by Utah's Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) under the state's current barbering law. Under Utah's updated licensing system, the permit is the standard entry point into professional barbering. When you earn it, you're a licensed barber — legally able to cut hair for paying clients anywhere in Utah.
What will I actually be able to do with the permit?
You'll be trained in, and licensed for, the core of the craft: haircuts, fades, clipper and shear work, razor and beard work, and hairpieces. Chemical services like color and perms fall under a separate, longer master barber license — that's not part of this program.
How long does it really take?
Active training runs about three and a half weeks. But we quote 30 to 40 days start to finish, because the last step — your application and approval through DOPL — is in the state's hands, not ours. Sometimes they turn it around in days; when they're swamped, it can take weeks. We'd rather set an honest expectation than make a promise we can't keep.
What does it cost, and what's included?
Intro to Barbering Class: $250/Intermediate Class (optional): $250
Apprenticeship — paid in full: $2,500/Apprenticeship — payment plan: $3,000
Your seat is reserved with a non-refundable $1,500 deposit — the same whether you pay in full or finance. Tuition covers your training and supervision. State fees are separate: a $60 application fee to DOPL and $210 in exam fees (paid to Prov). No continuing education is required to keep your permit active.
How does financing work?
Two ways to spread the cost. Use Klarna or Afterpay at checkout through our booking platform, Perceny — those pay us in full upfront, so you stay at the $2,500 rate and repay the financer over time. Or set up a direct payment plan with us at $3,000.
What happens if I don't finish paying?
On the direct payment plan, you have up to two months after completing your training hours to clear the balance. If it isn't paid in that window, your hours are voided and you'll need to start over. We built that deadline in on purpose — it keeps everyone moving and protects the value of your permit.
Is the deposit refundable?
No. The $1,500 deposit is non-refundable. It's your commitment to the seat, and it holds one of only two spots we can offer at a time.
Do I get a job at Lavish after I'm licensed?
No. Completing the program earns you a permit and the skills to use it — not a position at Lavish. Once you're licensed, your career is yours to build. Where you work and how you carry the craft is entirely up to you, unless you're hired on with us separately.
Who teaches the program?
You'll train under instructors who are licensed by the state of Utah, inside a fully operating salon and barbershop — not a classroom. You learn on real clients, in a real shop, from people doing the work every day.
What exam do I have to pass?
The NIC Theory and Practical exams, administered through Prov. Your training runs on Booked Out, which houses all your study material and coaches you through both exams — testing you until you pass at a standard set higher than the state's. Once you pass and your application clears DOPL, your permit is issued.
Do I need to bring my own tools?
Yes. Every barber works with their own cutting tools, so you'll bring your own clippers (corded or cordless, any brand), clipper guards, an edger/trimmer, and shears. Texture shears are optional. We provide everything else you need to learn and work the floor — neck strips, capes, hair clips, and spray bottles — plus full access to Booked Out. An optional tool bundle will be available later for anyone who'd rather buy in, though it's never required.
What is Booked Out?
It's the professional training platform your apprenticeship runs on, built by the team behind Savant Barbershops. It holds all your coursework and exam prep (kept current through a direct line to Utah's licensing division), it's where you punch in and out to track your hours, and it tests you until you pass. Heads up: Utah still requires your official hours on hand-filled log sheets, so you'll transfer your Booked Out time onto your state log — we'll walk you through it.
I just want to learn for myself — can I still take the class?
Absolutely. The Intro class is open to hobbyists too. Same class, whatever your reason — come learn real barbering skills for yourself, your friends, or your family. No pressure to pursue the permit.