Cosmetology License Requirements in Pennsylvania

Now that you have made the decision to become a cosmetologist, the next step is to consider what your options are in furthering your experience and education. Depending on which state you decide to further your cosmetology education, you need to know your personal career goals and the state’s licensing requirements. The best way to get started on the process and gather all the information you need is by contacting your school’s admissions office. As a Philadelphia beauty school, Queen Beauty Institute can guide you through Pennsylvania’s state regulations for any type of cosmetology certification or licensure you decide to look into. 

Cosmetology Education Requirements in Pennsylvania

There are two different ways to go about obtaining a cosmetology license in Pennsylvania. You can either graduate from an approved cosmetology school in the state or complete an apprenticeship program. Pennsylvania requires a minimum of 1,250 hours of cosmetology training before sitting for the exam. If you decide to attend a beauty school, you can expect to learn: 

• Hair Design & Styling
• Hair Cutting
• Coloring
• Makeup Application
• Business and Marketing
• Skincare Practices
• Safety Procedures
• State Laws

An apprenticeship is another direction to go and there are a few requirements before moving forward. The cosmetology teacher you apprentice with needs to have at least five years of experience. The salon you choose to complete your apprenticeship must have at least two cosmetologists who work at least 25 hours a week and are there at the same time you are practicing your hours.

 Consider Certifications

Before considering any additional certifications to support your background, you are going to want to take a couple of steps to become licensed in the state of Pennsylvania. No matter what direction you decide to take, cosmetologists must have a license to practice their services depending on state requirements. A certificate is not a requirement, but it is additional training you can use depending on your goals. 

A certification simply shows that you have received specific training in a specific subject. For example, at Queen Beauty Institute, your Esthetician License includes body waxing, face, and brow waxing. The curriculum does not not include Brazilian waxing. Brazilian waxing requires specific techniques that can be taught in a certification class by a licensed esthetician. However, certifications are pretty much meaningless without a license. 

Once you have received your license, now is a good time to look further into certificates as a way to further your skill set. Certificates offer opportunities to improve techniques and are ways you can offer more services. In some cases, depending on your goals and curriculum, there may be courses that are not offered in your program.

Cosmetology Exam

You cannot become a cosmetologist without completing the cosmetology exam. Going to Cosmetology School doesn’t  guarantee you your license. You have to pass your State Board Exam in order to legally work in Pennsylvania, which means your education should be taken seriously. You need a license to pursue your dreams as a nail tech, lash tech, hair stylist, waxer, or hair braider. 

Pursue an Education in the Beauty Industry

If you are ready to get the education and experience you need to become a licensed professional in the beauty industry, then schedule your tour with Queen Beauty Institute to learn more about what our beauty school has to offer. We have a variety of programs to choose from. Whether you have an interest in cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology or hair braiding, a tour can help you decide which program is right for you.

Queen Beauty Institute Enrollment Process

There are steps to take when enrolling in a beauty school program. Our admissions team is here to guide you through the process and get you the information you need to get started on accomplishing your goals. Here are a few ways to help you get started:

• • Step 1: Explore our programs to determine what you may be most interested in learning. We have a lot to choose from, including cosmetology, esthetics, and more!
  • Step 2: Schedule a tour of our campus. This step isn’t required, but it’s highly recommended, so you can see if our school can help you meet your goals.

• • Step 3: Fill out our pre-enrollment form. Once you do this, you’ll be emailed the school catalog, an overview of the program you’re interested in, and a link to the online application.

• Step 4: Fill out the online application. Once you do this, you’ll be contacted by the Admissions Officer to set up a Zoom interview.
• Step 5: Meet over Zoom for an interview with the admissions officer.
• Step 6: Once accepted, we’ll figure out a time for you to come in and fill out an enrollment contract. Submit the enrollment contract along with the non-refundable $250 registration fee to secure your seat in class.

For any more questions, contact our admissions office today! We can guide you through the enrollment process and answer any questions you may have.