Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist 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 Cosmetologist 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 • Cosmetology Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$29,680 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 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 29,680, Cosmetologists in Pennsylvania earn 16% below the national median of $35,250. Pennsylvania ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$29,680Hourly estimate
$14.2716% below national median
Difference: -$5,570
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#41 of 50 statesfor Cosmetologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 58,920 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 52,000 |
| #3 | Vermont | 49,640 |
| #4 | South Dakota | 49,050 |
| #5 | Maine | 48,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
Cosmetologist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $29,680 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $33,960 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $44,110 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $30,980 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $36,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $31,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $29,440 | 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 | 74 | Medium | Continuing education compliance is 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 • Cosmetology Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177837130
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $42,570 | 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 Cosmetologist 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 Cosmetologists in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Pennsylvania is 29,680. Salaries range from $20,390 (10th percentile) to $61,990 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Pennsylvania earn 16% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 29,680.
How many Cosmetologists work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 18,630 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist 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 Cosmetologists in Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Cosmetology Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Cosmetology/Pages/default.aspx.