Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Iowa, 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 Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Affidavit or referral required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts & Sciences
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$38,530 median (11% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#9 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 38,530, Nail Technicians in Iowa earn 11% above the national median of $34,660. Iowa ranks #9 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$38,530Hourly estimate
$18.5211% above national median
Difference: +$3,870
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#9 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $38,530 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $36,140 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $34,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $34,520 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $38,950 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $36,560 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $40,210 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 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. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts & Sciences
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50319-0075
Phone: 5152810254
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $78,480 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $37,850 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $44,400 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $62,400 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Iowa 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 Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Nail Technician licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Iowa is 38,530. Salaries range from $26,540 (10th percentile) to $52,510 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Iowa earn 11% above the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 38,530.
How many Nail Technicians work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 120 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Iowa 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 Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts & Sciences. Review agency details at https://dial.iowa.gov/about/boards/barbering-cosmetology.