Application Fee
See agencyVerified by GA Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Georgia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Georgia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nail Technician in Georgia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Any conviction is prohibited
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$26,500 median (24% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 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 Georgia
With a median salary of 26,500, Nail Technicians in Georgia earn 24% below the national median of $34,660. Georgia ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$26,500Hourly estimate
$12.7424% below national median
Difference: -$8,160
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#49 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | $26,500 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $30,030 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $34,810 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $25,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $32,370 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $27,980 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 19 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Florida | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Alabama | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: No new Licenses.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology
237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, GA, 31217-3858
Phone: 4782072440
Related Careers in Georgia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $47,630 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $30,790 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $42,340 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $56,740 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Georgia?
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 Georgia?
Georgia lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Nail Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Nail Technician in Georgia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Nail Technician licensure in Georgia.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Georgia?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Georgia is 26,500. Salaries range from $16,440 (10th percentile) to $41,640 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Georgia compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Georgia earn 24% below the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 26,500.
How many Nail Technicians work in Georgia?
Georgia employs approximately 1,900 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Georgia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: No new Licenses. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Nail Technicians in Georgia?
The licensing agency is Georgia State Board of Cosmetology. Review agency details at https://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing.