Barber / Pennsylvania
2026 data Pennsylvania board official source

Pennsylvania Barber License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Cuts and styles hair. Licensed in all 50 states and DC.

What the Pennsylvania data shows for Barbers

To practice as a barber in Pennsylvania, the state licensing board requires 1,284 documented education or training hours, a passing score on the State Barber Board Exam examination. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 16 years old. The regulation sits under Pennsylvania's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Barber School".

Upfront cost is $106, with renewal running $56 on a 2-year cycle. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in this state, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

Reciprocity is available: Varies by state — check with state board. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Pennsylvania

Education / Training Hours
Barber School
1,284 hours
Exam Requirement
State Barber Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$106
Renewal Fee
$56
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
16 years
0

License Reciprocity

Varies by state — check with state board

Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Pennsylvania licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Barber in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania requires 1284 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Barber Board Exam), and an initial fee of $106. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Barber in Pennsylvania?
To become a licensed barber in Pennsylvania, you must meet the state's requirements including 1284 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Pennsylvania licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Barber license to Pennsylvania from another state?
Pennsylvania has reciprocity provisions: Varies by state — check with state board. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Pennsylvania licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Pennsylvania require a background check for Barber licensing?
Yes, Pennsylvania requires a criminal background check as part of the barber licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

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