How to Become a Successful Nail Technician State-by-state?

Nowadays, there are more nail technicians than ever before. So, how did nail salon technicians become successful? 

This article will show you how to become a professional nail salon technician. 

Figure 01. The fundamental factors in becoming a nail tech state-by-state.

Firmly grasp the knowledge of licenses and certifications of nail technician

To become a manicurist in the US, it is imperative to have a license or certificate. Therefore, equip yourself with the most detailed knowledge about them.

At the very least, you have to know the following information:

• What is this certificate?
• What are the requirements for the certification?
• What do you need to get a license or certification?
• How to get that certificate?

Read more information related to the license and certification of nail technicians here.

When do you need a nail technician license or certification?

If you want to be your boss, open your salon, or work as a manicurist for someone else, you'll need a nail technician license or certification.

The following are some advantages of obtaining a nail technician certification or degree:

• You can follow all health and sanitary precautions with the appropriate education and training.
• It's also a good idea to show your license to clients in your salon so they know you're a qualified nail technician and can put their trust in you.

How can you become licensed or certified as a nail technician?

You must possess the following to apply for a license as a nail technician, cosmetologist, or manicurist:

• The specific level of training in a cosmetology program at a nail technology school that has received state approval
• A successful written and/or practical test
• The licensing fee associated with it being paid

Read more basic ways to get a license or certificate in nail tech, here.

The basics of the nail exam are required. More is needed to understand the fundamentals of the nail test. Each state has its standards for nail salon technicians' licenses. Therefore, you must know each state's license and certification criteria.

Comprehend each state's licensing and certification criteria

States often require applicants to be at least 16-17 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Additionally, nail tech licenses are also suitable for two years. 

In addition, each state has its regulations:

How to become a nail technician in Houston?

Houston is Nail Technician School, and to become a graduate, candidates must fulfill these prerequisites:

• Must be at least 17 years of age
• Provide a valid driver’s license, state photo ID, or valid passport
• Must have a valid social security number
• Provide proof of prior education such as a high school diploma, GED certificate, or recognized equivalent. HTS does not accept ATB students.
• Submit a completed application and registration fee of $100
• Attend an interview and school tour with a school official
• Complete the enrollment agreement

How to become a nail technician in California?

In California, applicants must be:

• Be at least 17 years old, have at least a 10th-grade education
• Have completed 400 hours at a recognized manicurist school
• Passing the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology's written and practical tests
• Pay $110 for the license and first exam

Additionally, someone who is a licensed nail technician in another state can receive a reciprocal license in California by meeting the criteria listed below:

• Show evidence of an active nail technician license from another state
• Had to have been a working nail technician for three of the preceding five years
• Have been no sanctions or convictions for crimes.
• Pay a $35 charge.

Learn how to become a nail tech in California, here.

How to become a licensed nail technician in Texas?

In Texas, nail technicians must be:

• At least 17 years old and hold a high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED).
• Complete 600 hours of training
• Pass the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation's Board of Cosmetology's written and practical tests.
• Pay a price of $122
• If the applicant has a criminal history that includes a felony or a federal violation, a Criminal History Questionnaire must be included with the application for licensing. The board evaluates such applications on a case-by-case basis.

For exchanging licensing with several states, Texas charges $100. 

Learn how to become a nail tech in Texas, here.

How to become a licensed nail technician in Florida?

A nail tech license in Florida requires applicants to be:

• At least 16 years old with a high school diploma or GED
• Must complete 240 hours of training at a cosmetology school that has been approved
• Complete a state-approved HIV/AIDS course
• Candidates can apply for a nail tech license with the Florida Board of Cosmetology after passing a final exam
• Pay a $75 fee

If you already hold a license from a state with comparable educational and testing require it.

Learn how to become a nail tech in Florida, here.

How to become a licensed nail technician in Georgia?

To obtain a Georgia nail technician license, candidates must be:

• At least 17 years old and hold a GED or high school graduation.
• To be "Good moral character."
• Can either finish a 2,050-hour apprenticeship program or a four-month, 525-credit nail tech licensure course
• Take and pass the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology & Barbers license test for nail technicians.
• Pay the fee of $45.

Learn how to become a nail tech in Georgia, here.

Like many states, Georgia has reciprocal licensing agreements that cost $50 each. Nail technicians must renew their licenses by August 31 of each odd-numbered year.

Read more information about how to become a Nail Technician in the rest states, here.

Failing to meet your state’s requirements, working without a license or certification, or wrong working could result in hefty fines from your state board of cosmetology, or your local department of public health. So besides basic information, you need to comprehend the requirement of each state to avoid hefty fines. 

Visit our Nail Exam Website to learn more about the Nail Technician Tests and get advice on how to pass them and get your Nail Technician License.

With our Nail Exam App, which offers a range of exam-like and state-specific Nail practice tests, be ready for the Nail Technician Exam.