Fines & Penalties
What happens if an inspector finds a violation?
The inspector reports to the Board, which may impose fines, citations, or suspension depending on severity.
How much additional space must be provided for each additional licensee working in a salon?
60 square feet per additional licensee
What must a cosmetologist do if a client shows signs of an infectious disease?
Refuse service until the client presents a physician’s certification stating they are free of communicable disease.
Can any part of a salon be used for non-cosmetology purposes?
No — salon areas (including lavatories and storage) may not be used for other business or living purposes.
What is our required academy uniform?
Black or gray scrubs purchased by the student, along with the Academy-provided smock. No open toe shoes.
What penalty applies for failure to display current licenses or permits?
$100 for first offense; $250 for second offense.
How long must schools keep student records after graduation or withdrawal?
At least 7 years.
What must be included in a salon’s first-aid kit?
Antiseptic, bandages, cotton, protective gloves, and a blood-spill kit.
May students render services to the public?
Yes — under instructor supervision after completing the required preliminary instruction.
Where are students allowed to eat and drink?
In the student kitchen and theory room only.
What civil penalty applies to employing an unlicensed individual to perform services (first offense)?
$500 per unlicensed individual.
What is the minimum age to apply for a cosmetologist license in PA?
16 years old, with completion of 10th grade or equivalent.
What sanitation standard applies to reusable implements?
Cleaned with soap and water, then disinfected with an EPA-registered solution before reuse.
How many apprentice hours equal one hour of school instruction?
One hour equals one hour — apprentices must complete the full 2,000 hours under supervision.
Can students perform cosmetology, esthetics, or nail services outside the Academy for compensation while they are students?
No. It is against State Board laws and regulations.
What penalty applies for not posting Clean Indoor Air Act signage?
$250 fine for first offense.
How many hours are required for a cosmetology-teacher license?
500 additional hours beyond the 1,250 cosmetology hours.
What are the lighting and ventilation requirements for a salon?
Every salon must be well-lit and well-ventilated to maintain sanitary conditions.
How should cosmetics or chemicals be labeled in the salon?
In clearly labeled containers showing contents; never stored in unlabeled bottles.
A student performs a service on another student but forgets to have an instructor check the service. What happens to the student's requirement credit?
They do not receive credit for the requirement.
What civil penalty applies to operating an unlicensed salon (first offense)?
$500 fine.
What is the minimum required equipment for a one-operator salon?
At least one styling station, shampoo bowl, chair, and first-aid kit with blood-spill kit.
What electrical safety rule must all salons observe?
All electrical appliances must be properly installed, maintained, and grounded.
How often must towels and linens be laundered?
After each client — all towels and linens must be clean, sanitary, and stored properly.
A student knows they're going to be late tomorrow. What should they do?
Notify the Academy and complete the Student Absence/Early Dismissal Request Form.