Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Personal Care
Barber Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for barber in Pennsylvania, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Barber in Pennsylvania
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Barber Examiners Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$42,570 median (9% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#16 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 42,570, Barbers in Pennsylvania earn 9% above the national median of $38,960. Pennsylvania ranks #16 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$42,570Hourly estimate
$20.479% above national median
Difference: +$3,610
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationBarber Salary Ranking
#16 of 50 statesfor Barber median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Iowa | 78,480 |
| #2 | Washington | 70,750 |
| #3 | North Carolina | 64,290 |
| #4 | Colorado | 56,690 |
| #5 | Louisiana | 49,850 |
Nearby States Comparison
Barber licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $42,570 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $32,050 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $49,360 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $38,960 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $46,530 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $34,360 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $46,930 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 70 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Barber Examiners Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177833402
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | $29,680 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $43,920 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $57,660 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $27,480 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Barber in Pennsylvania?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Barbers in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Barbers.
What education do you need to become a Barber in Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Degree required for Barber licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Barber salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Barbers in Pennsylvania is 42,570. Salaries range from $27,860 (10th percentile) to $52,900 (90th percentile).
How does the Barber salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Barbers in Pennsylvania earn 9% above the national median of $38,960, with a state median of 42,570.
How many Barbers work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 920 Barbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Barber license to Pennsylvania from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Barbers in Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Barber Examiners Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/BarberExaminers/Pages/default.aspx.