Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AR Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Arkansas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nail Technician in Arkansas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Arkansas Department of Agriculture • Veterinary Medical Examining Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$27,780 median (20% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#47 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Arkansas
With a median salary of 27,780, Nail Technicians in Arkansas earn 20% below the national median of $34,660. Arkansas ranks #47 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$27,780Hourly estimate
$13.3620% below national median
Difference: -$6,880
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#47 of 50 statesfor Nail Technician median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Kentucky | 60,950 |
| #2 | Maine | 49,430 |
| #3 | Washington | 47,840 |
| #4 | Alaska | 46,040 |
| #5 | New Mexico | 42,840 |
Nearby States Comparison
Nail Technician licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $27,780 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $38,950 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $30,030 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $42,370 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $29,100 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $36,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $29,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Arkansas Department of Agriculture • Veterinary Medical Examining Board
1 Natural Resources Dr., Little Rock, AR, 72205
Phone: 5012242836
Related Careers in Arkansas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $24,700 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $26,450 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $37,250 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $31,280 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Arkansas?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Nail Technicians in Arkansas?
Arkansas lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Nail Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Nail Technician in Arkansas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Nail Technician licensure in Arkansas.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Arkansas is 27,780. Salaries range from $23,700 (10th percentile) to $47,510 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Arkansas earn 20% below the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 27,780.
How many Nail Technicians work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 280 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Arkansas from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Nail Technicians in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Arkansas Department of Agriculture / Veterinary Medical Examining Board. Review agency details at https://www.arvetboard.statesolutions.us/.