Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky
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: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Cosmetology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$60,950 median (76% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 60,950, Nail Technicians in Kentucky earn 76% above the national median of $34,660. Kentucky ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$60,950Hourly estimate
$29.3076% above national median
Difference: +$26,290
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $60,950 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $33,090 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $35,900 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $36,020 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $36,970 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $30,030 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $38,950 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $34,520 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | 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. |
- 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
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Cosmetology
111 St. James Court, Suite A, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5025644262
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $48,930 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $32,170 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $26,360 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $54,890 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Nail Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Nail Technician in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Nail Technician licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Kentucky is 60,950. Salaries range from $36,070 (10th percentile) to $64,220 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Kentucky earn 76% above the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 60,950.
How many Nail Technicians work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 150 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Cosmetology. Review agency details at http://kbc.ky.gov/.