HowToGetLicensed

Cosmetologist License: Pennsylvania vs Illinois

Thinking about getting your cosmetologist license? Here's how Pennsylvania and Illinois compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement Pennsylvania Illinois
Education Hours 1250 hours 1500 hours
Exam Pennsylvania Cosmetology Exam Illinois Cosmetology Exam
Application Fee $30 $50
Exam Fee $80 $70
Total Estimated Cost $6,000 - $17,000 $7,000 - $18,000
Renewal Period Every 2 years Every 2 years
CE Hours 0 hours 14 hours
Renewal Fee $40 $60

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: Pennsylvania is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $6,000-$17,000 compared to $7,000-$18,000.

Fewer education hours: Pennsylvania requires 1250 hours of pre-license education, compared to 1500 hours in Illinois.

Full State Guides

Compare cosmetologist requirements across all 50 states →