Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nail Technician in Illinois
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$34,520 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#28 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 Illinois
With a median salary of 34,520, Nail Technicians in Illinois earn 0% below the national median of $34,660. Illinois ranks #28 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,451Median annual salary
$34,520Hourly estimate
$16.600% above national median
Difference: -$140
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#28 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $34,520 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $34,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $38,530 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $38,950 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $60,950 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $33,090 | Specific course required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | 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
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $36,300 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $34,800 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $38,580 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $60,640 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Illinois?
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 Illinois?
Illinois lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Nail Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Nail Technician in Illinois?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Nail Technician licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Illinois is 34,520. Salaries range from $29,120 (10th percentile) to $45,200 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Illinois earn 0% below the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 34,520.
How many Nail Technicians work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 2,490 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Illinois 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 Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.