Short answer: Yes — but “quickly” is limited by state-required training hours and exams. In Illinois you must complete a 1,500‑hour barber program (or an approved apprenticeship) before you may sit for the licensing exam, and statute sets a minimum program duration (about 9 months for full‑time programs). (barber-schools.org)

What that means in practice

• Minimum training: 1,500 hours in an approved barber school (or an approved apprenticeship route). (barber-schools.org)
• Minimum time: the law requires the 1,500 hours to extend over not less than about 9 months (so even a very intensive full‑time program normally takes ~9 months). (ilga.gov)
• After graduation you must pass the state barber exam (written and practical) and submit the application/fees to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (DFPR). Processing and next available exam date add extra time. (barber-schools.org)

Ways to shorten the calendar time (within the rules)

• Enroll full‑time in an accelerated schedule so you complete the 1,500 hours in the minimum allowed months (many schools offer intensive schedules). (ilga.gov)
• If you already have related training (for example cosmetology hours), some schools may accept part of that training toward the 1,500‑hour requirement (up to limits set in law/rules). (ilga.gov)
• Check whether your chosen school offers early exam scheduling or a temporary permit (some states allow limited temporary practice after graduation until the next exam; confirm with the school/DFPR). (DFPR/school verification recommended.)

Typical fastest timeline estimate

• Fastest realistic: about 9 months to finish school + time to schedule and pass the exam + application processing — so plan on roughly 9–12 months total if you attend full‑time and pass the exam promptly. If you take part‑time classes it will take longer. (ilga.gov)

Next steps I recommend

1. Contact a few DFPR‑approved Barber Schools near you and ask: program hours, weekly schedule (how many hours/week), earliest graduation date, exam prep and scheduling, and whether they credit prior cosmetology hours.
2. Confirm exam dates and application requirements with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (DFPR).
3. Ask the school whether they help with exam registration and licensure paperwork so there’s no delay after graduation.

If you want, I can look up approved Barber Schools near your city or pull the DFPR application/exam links and current exam dates for Illinois. Which would you prefer?