Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nail Technician in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$35,000 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 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 California
With a median salary of 35,000, Nail Technicians in California earn 1% above the national median of $34,660. California ranks #22 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$35,000Hourly estimate
$16.831% above national median
Difference: +$340
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#22 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $35,000 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $35,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $35,340 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $34,820 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians
2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 205, Sacramento, CA, 95833
Phone: 9162637800
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $36,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $39,370 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $36,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $48,430 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in California?
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 is the typical Nail Technician salary in California?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in California is 35,000. Salaries range from $33,630 (10th percentile) to $44,610 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in California compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in California earn 1% above the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 35,000.
How many Nail Technicians work in California?
California employs approximately 37,730 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Nail Technicians in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. Review agency details at https://www.bvnpt.ca.gov/.