How to Become a Nail Technician
Interested in learning how to become a nail tech? Nail technicians work in spas, nail salons and cosmetology centers to beautify and shape clients' nails. In addition to manicures and pedicures, nail technicians may also provide such services as hand and foot massages. Manicure and pedicure services involve cutting, shaping, polishing and painting nails. A great deal of sitting is involved, and masks and gloves must often be worn while working with chemicals. No degree is required to become a nail technician, but a certificate from a cosmetology school is. State licensure is also necessary to work in the field. Read on to learn more about how to become a licensed nail tech.
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Nail Technician Job Description
Nail technicians need to have strong communication skills, dexterity, the ability to sell nail care products, and time management skills. They also need to be familiar with nail care tools, such as nail files, cuticle cutters, and nail clippers. Knowledge about special equipment used to make custom nail art, or complete nail services such as French manicures, is also necessary. Most employers look for candidates with a neat and clean appearance who have the ability to maintain a hygienic work space and work schedule flexibility.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2020, the median annual wage for manicurists and pedicurists was $20,370, with the highest-paid 10% earning around $38,900.
| Job Titles | Nail technician; Manicurist; Nail artist |
| Required Education | High school diploma or GED; Nail tech program |
| Other Requirements | Licensure |
| Salary | $27,870 (as of May 2020) |
| Job Outlook | 33% growth (2020-2030) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Step 1: Complete Your Nail Technician Certification
Wondering how to get certified as a nail tech? The first step toward becoming a nail technician is to complete a nail technician program. Although it isn't always required, a number of nail technician programs require applicants to hold a high school diploma or its equivalent. Nail technician programs are available within cosmetology schools and prepare graduates for state licensure. These programs combine both academic and practical training in the field. Students learn about nail care applications, infectious control, and customer service. The practical training not only gives students experience in the field, but also provides them with the skills necessary to create art on nails. Programs typically meet the minimum state clock hours needed for licensure. The cost of these courses tends to vary, but most well-regarded and accredited beauty schools cost around $2,000 to $4,000 for a full course that will allow you to obtain your nail tech certification. Look into schools and requirements in your state to learn how to become a certified nail tech where you live.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Nail Tech?
Again, there are differences in nail technician requirements by state, but for the most part these courses take four months, or one college term, to complete. Some full-year or eight month courses are available.
If you are taking certified nail technician courses, here are some things you might study while obtaining your nail certificate:
- Hygiene
- Anatomy
- Chemistry
- Histology of Hands and Nails
- Artificial Nails
- Customer Relations
Step 2: Obtain a Nail Technician License
Do you need a license to be a nail technician? Yes. After completing a program, all nail technicians need to become licensed. Getting your nail tech license will require you to look into the ways that licensure varies by state. For example, Kentucky requires nail technicians to have 600 clock hours, while Florida mandates 240 hours. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that cosmetology applicants need to be at least 16 years old and be high school graduates, but prospective nail technicians should check with their state board of cosmetology for specific details. Each state requires that nail technicians pass a written and practical exam to obtain licensure. The written portion may include subjects in health and safety, nail technology, and nail care. In the clinical portion, an individual may be required to demonstrate how to perform a manicure and additional nail treatments.
Step 3: Continuing Education With Certified Nail Technician Courses
To maintain licensure, nail technicians need to apply for renewal. The number of continuing education hours and the expiration period varies by state. Many states' licenses expire annually or every two years. Continuing education classes for manicurists or nail technicians may cover such topics as health and sanitation, state laws or advanced nail techniques. Many independent continuing education companies and cosmetology schools offer continuing education online. Students should be sure to research the validity of these organizations before enrolling. Many states have an approved educator list to reference.
Step 4: Career Advancement
Some nail technicians continue their education in the personal appearance industry by going on to become cosmetologists or estheticians. Doing so requires completing additional education through a trade school or community college and then obtaining state licensure. Another option would be for a nail technician to eventually open his or her own nail care business.
Pros and Cons
Now that you understand how to be a nail tech, what kinds of things should you keep in mind about the job? Some of the benefits to becoming a nail technician include:
- Face to face interaction with people
- Ability to hone your skills
- Excellent job growth projected
- Relatively little training required
However, like all jobs, becoming a nail tech has its drawbacks:
- Lower than average wages
- Customer service has its challenges
- Some possibility of contracting contagious diseases from customers
Nail technicians need to complete a training program at a cosmetology school in order to be eligible for state licensure. Continuing education classes are needed to renew licensure on a regular basis.
