Esthetician License in Pennsylvania
Quick Answer
Pennsylvania requires only 300 hours of esthetics training (one of the lowest in the US) and passing a state exam, with no continuing education needed.
- Education Required
- 300 hours
- Exam
- Pennsylvania State Board Esthetics Exam
- Timeline
- 2-5 months
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every Every 2 years
Requirements
Esthetician license in Pennsylvania
Esthetician Salary in Pennsylvania
Entry Level
$22,880
Median
$43,920
Experienced
$66,770
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Esthetician in Pennsylvania.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
State exam required — Pennsylvania State Board Esthetics Exam
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-5 months.
Esthetician Licensing in Pennsylvania: What to Know
Pennsylvania licenses estheticians through the Department of State, Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs, Cosmetology Board. At just 300 hours, Pennsylvania has one of the lowest education requirements for estheticians in the entire country. The COS data provides a scope-of-practice description covering facial massage, cosmetic preparations application, hair removal by tweezers, depilatories, or waxes, and eyelash/eyebrow dyeing. A state examination is required, and no continuing education is needed for license renewal. The significantly lower hour requirement compared to states like Georgia (1,500 hours) means Pennsylvania estheticians can enter the workforce much faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Esthetician license in Pennsylvania?
- The process typically takes 2-5 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Esthetician license in Pennsylvania?
- You need to pass the Pennsylvania State Board Esthetics Exam. State exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Esthetician requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.