“You’re eligible for the Pennsylvania Cosmetology State Board Exam.”
It’s either the dream ahead or the official mail in your hands.
Either way, the next thought is the same: what exactly is this exam like?
The fees, the process, the test content… it adds up fast.
This guide lays it out clearly, from sign-up to exam day, plain and simple.
Test yourself with real-style 2026 questions.
Pennsylvania Cosmetology Exam FAQs
You must complete 1,250 training hours in a Pennsylvania-licensed cosmetology school before applying for the exam.
To understand the whole path from school to license, check out our step-by-step guide to getting a cosmetology license in 2026.
The Pennsylvania written exam has 110 multiple-choice questions covering theory, safety, and state law.
You apply online through the PSI Exams portal after your cosmetology school submits training records to the State Board.
You must score at least 75% on both the written and practical exams to pass in Pennsylvania.
Exams are held at PSI testing centers across Pennsylvania, including cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Harrisburg.
No. You must complete all 1,250 training hours before you can sit for the exam.
The written exam lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes, consisting of 135 questions, while the practical exam takes approximately 3–4 hours.
The Pennsylvania written exam covers safety/sanitation, hair care, chemical services, skin and nails, and state law.
You may retake the Pennsylvania exam as many times as needed, but you must pay exam fees each time.
The Pennsylvania exam costs $93 for the theory test and $93 for the practical test, paid to PSI. The application fee is a separate $26.
Apart from exam fees, are you curious about what beauty and esthetics schools really cost? Have a read.
That covers the key details. How about taking up a quick 10-question Pennsylvania practice test?
Pennsylvania Cosmetology State Board Exam Practice Test
"*" indicates required fields
For an Application for Licensure in Pennsylvania, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
Bonus Tips & Resources for Your Next Steps
Passing the Pennsylvania cosmetology exam is only the beginning. Once you’ve cleared it, here’s what comes next:
After Passing the Exam
Once you pass, you’ll receive instructions from the State Board to pay the initial license fee (about $67). Processing usually takes 2–4 weeks, and your license will arrive by mail.
License Validity & Renewal
A Pennsylvania cosmetology license is valid for two years, expiring on January 31 of even-numbered years.
And you probably ask,
Renewal is completed online via the PALS portal. Pennsylvania currently does not require continuing education hours for renewal, but rules can change, so always check the Board’s updates.
Working & Career Options
Owning a salon: You must hold a valid cosmetology license, but you’ll also need a separate salon license issued by the Board if you plan to open your own business.
Earnings: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, cosmetologists in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $32,240 per year (or about $15.50/hour), though top earners in urban areas may make more. (BLS Data)
Also read, how TikTok can actually help cosmetologists grow their client list.
Reciprocity & Out-of-State Work
If you’re moving, Pennsylvania allows license reciprocity with many states. You’ll need to apply to the new state’s board and provide proof of your PA license.
Some states may require additional hours if their standard exceeds Pennsylvania’s 1,250 hours.
If you’re thinking long-term, know more about the Cosmetology Compact.
Wrapping Up
You’ve got the essentials down – the hours, the fees, what’s on the test, and what comes after. Now it’s just about steady prep and showing up ready.
When you feel like you’ve covered enough, give yourself a quick run-through with a practice quiz. It’s a low-pressure way to see where you stand before exam day.
Related Reads:
Pennsylvania Esthetician State Board Exam: Free Practice Test, And Everything You Need To Know