Cosmetologist / Pennsylvania
2026 data Pennsylvania board official source

Pennsylvania Cosmetologist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

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Provides hair, skin, and nail care services. Required in all 50 states.

What the Pennsylvania data shows for Cosmetologists

Becoming a licensed cosmetologist in Pennsylvania means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 1,341 training hours, a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 16. Pennsylvania regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

Upfront cost is $35, with renewal running $20 on a 2-year cycle. Expect roughly 2 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in Pennsylvania, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Varies by state — check with state board.

Licensing Requirements in Pennsylvania

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,341 hours
Exam Requirement
State Cosmetology Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$120
Renewal Fee
$62
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
16 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$35
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$20
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
2 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
Not required
Compare fees across all states for Cosmetologist →

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Compare all states for Cosmetologist All Pennsylvania licenses
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 Cosmetologist in Pennsylvania? ▼
In Pennsylvania, the license path calls for 1341 education/training hours, a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam, and a $120 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Cosmetologist in Pennsylvania? ▼
Pennsylvania licenses cosmetologists who complete its requirements (1341 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Pennsylvania licensing board.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Pennsylvania from another state? ▼
Cosmetologist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Varies by state — check with state board. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Pennsylvania licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Pennsylvania require a background check for Cosmetologist licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for cosmetologist licensing in Pennsylvania. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
How much does it cost to get a Cosmetologist license in Pennsylvania? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Pennsylvania is $35. The renewal fee is $20 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 2 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Cosmetologist license processing take in Pennsylvania? ▼
In Pennsylvania, license processing for cosmetologists typically takes approximately 2 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.