Becoming a licensed hairstylist in Alberta is one of the most rewarding career moves you can make. It’s a creative, in-demand profession with strong earning potential, flexible working arrangements, and a clear pathway to business ownership. But how exactly do you get there? Here’s everything you need to know.

Step 1: Complete an Approved Hairstyling Program

To become a licensed hairstylist in Alberta, you first need to complete a provincially approved hairstyling program. Programs must meet the standards set by Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) and TradeSecrets.

At NIWE Academy in Calgary, the Hairstyling Diploma is a 32-week, 1,100-hour program that covers everything from haircutting fundamentals and colour theory to perms, lightening, and business prep. Upon graduation, you’re fully prepared to enter your apprenticeship.

Step 2: Register as an Apprentice with Alberta AIT

After completing your technical training, you’ll register as an apprentice with Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training. Your apprenticeship consists of two periods, each requiring 1,450 hours of on-the-job work experience with a qualified sponsor (an employer).

Already working in a salon? NIWE also offers the Apprenticeship Hairstyling Program — the only AIT-approved technical training option in Southern Alberta — allowing you to earn your certification while you work.

Step 3: Complete Your Technical Training Periods

Each apprenticeship period includes 10 weeks of classroom instruction. NIWE Academy is one of only two approved providers in Alberta (serving Southern Alberta), making it the go-to choice for Calgary-area apprentices.

At the end of each period, you’ll write a theory exam. NIWE includes licensing exam preparation at no additional cost.

Step 4: Write Your Journeyperson Exam

After completing both periods and your required work hours, you’ll write the Journeyperson Certificate exam. Passing this exam makes you a fully licensed hairstylist in Alberta.

You also have the option to pursue your Red Seal Endorsement — a nationally recognized credential that allows you to work as a licensed hairstylist anywhere in Canada.

How Long Does It Take?

  • Hairstyling Diploma: 32 weeks
  • Apprenticeship (both periods): approximately 2 years of on-the-job experience
  • Total timeline from enrollment to Journeyperson Certificate: approximately 2.5–3 years

What Can You Do With a Hairstyling License in Alberta?

Licensed hairstylists in Alberta work in salons, spas, film and theatre, fashion, and education. Many open their own salons or chair rental businesses. The average hairstylist in Calgary earns $20–$35/hour, with salon owners and specialists earning significantly more.

Ready to Start?

NIWE Academy has helped 3,500+ students launch their beauty careers since 2012. Our Hairstyling Diploma and Apprenticeship Program are both designed to get you licensed, jobready, and ahead of the competition.

Book a Campus Tour → https://learn.niwe.ca/book-a-tour-niwe-academy