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In order to obtain a license in Barbering, Cosmetology, Esthetics, or Nail Technology in the state of Pennsylvania, individuals must complete the requirements listed below. Other requirements may apply.

Cosmetologist: 1250 hours
Esthetician: 300 hours
Nail Technician: 200 hours
Natural Hair Braider: 300 hours
Barber: 1250 hours

Licensing Fee Schedule: (Fees subject to change)

Schedule is for all fields related to Cosmetology.

Complete Initial Exam/Licensure: $149
Biennial Renewal Fee: $35

Schedule is for Barbers:

Complete Initial Exam/Licensure: $149
Biennial Renewal Fee: $42

Continuing Education Requirements:

Reciprocity:
Pennsylvania does not have an understanding of reciprocity with California, Connecticut, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, New Jersey, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Wisconsin or Utah. Applicants cannot obtain a cosmetologist license by reciprocity based upon a license in any of these states - they would be required to take, and pass, the entire state board examination (theory and practical) to obtain a Pennsylvania license.
Reciprocity (licensure without examination) may be granted to applicants licensed in states with which Pennsylvania has an understanding-of-reciprocity. To qualify for licensure by reciprocity, an applicant must have a current license, and two (2) years of working experience from the original licensure date. If the applicant does not meet the requirements for reciprocity, the Pennsylvania examination (theory and practical) must be successfully completed.
Contact Information:
Pennsylvania State Board of Cosmetology
P.O. Box 2649
Harrisburg, PA 17105
717-783-7130
www.dos.state.pa.us/bpoa/cwp/view.asp?a=1104&q=432561 Cosmetology
www.dos.state.pa.us/bpoa/cwp/view.asp?a=1104&q=432505 Barber