North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 86B. Barber and Electrolysis Practice Act § 86B-40. Apprenticeship

(a) Before being issued an apprentice license, an applicant must pass an examination conducted by the Board to determine his or her competence, including his or her knowledge of barbering, sanitary rules and regulations, and knowledge of diseases of the face, skin and scalp.

(b) An apprentice license expires on May 31 of each year. Every holder of an apprentice license shall annually renew the apprentice license by the expiration date and pay the required renewal fee. An apprentice license issued under this Chapter is automatically suspended by operation of law after failure to renew the apprentice license by the expiration date. An apprentice whose apprentice license has expired may have the license restored immediately upon paying all lapsed renewal fees and the required late fee. The license of an apprentice is valid only so long as the apprentice works under the supervision of a licensed barber. The licensed barber shall remain present on the premises of the barbershop at all times while the apprentice is working. No apprentice shall operate a barbershop.

(c) On completion of at least one year's apprenticeship, evidenced by affidavit of the supervising licensed barber or barbers, and upon meeting the other requirements of G.S. 86B-23, the apprentice shall be issued a license as a barber, pursuant to G.S. 86B-26. No licensed apprentice may practice for a period exceeding three years without retaking and passing the required examination to receive a license as an apprentice.