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Verified by ME Board of Personal Care

Nail Technician Licensing in Maine

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Maine, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State-approved exam

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Nail Technician in Maine

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Tied to business
  • Education: No educational requirements
  • Examination: State-approved exam
  • Application Fee: See agency
  • Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
  • Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Maine Department of Professional & Financial Regulation • Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $49,430 median (43% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #2 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in Maine

With a median salary of 49,430, Nail Technicians in Maine earn 43% above the national median of $34,660. Maine ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

State Hiring Climate (QCEW)

Rising

QoQ Employment Change

+3.4%

Average Weekly Wage

$1,220

Median annual salary

$49,430

Hourly estimate

$23.76
43% above national median

Difference: +$14,770

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$38,630
  • P2525th percentile$45,000
  • P50Median$49,430
  • P7575th percentile$77,950
  • P9090th percentile$78,010

State vs National Median

State: $49,430
National: $34,660

Total employment: 220 | Annual openings: N/A

Nail Technician Salary Ranking

#2 of 50 statesfor Nail Technician median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Kentucky60,950
#2Maine49,430
#3Washington47,840
#4Alaska46,040
#5New Mexico42,840

Nearby States Comparison

Nail Technician licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
Maine$49,430No educational requirementsState-approved exam6-24 months
New Hampshire$31,720Varies by state boardThird-party exam required6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
Maine72MediumBackground check or criminal history review is indicated.
New Hampshire50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
  • License status indicator: Active.
  • Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
  • Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Official Licensing Agency

Maine Department of Professional & Financial Regulation • Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation

Gardiner Annex/ 76 Northern Ave, 35 State House Station, Augusta, ME, 04333-0035

Phone: 2076248603

Related Careers in Maine

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Barber$36,460No educational requirements6-24 months
Cosmetologist$48,480No educational requirements6-24 months
Esthetician$73,500Specific course required6-24 months
Massage Therapist$67,420No educational requirements6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Maine?

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 education do you need to become a Nail Technician in Maine?

The board typically expects No educational requirements for Nail Technician licensure in Maine.

What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Maine?

The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Maine is 49,430. Salaries range from $38,630 (10th percentile) to $78,010 (90th percentile).

How does the Nail Technician salary in Maine compare to the national average?

Nail Technicians in Maine earn 43% above the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 49,430.

How many Nail Technicians work in Maine?

Maine employs approximately 220 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Maine from another state?

Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement 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 Maine?

The licensing agency is Maine Department of Professional & Financial Regulation / Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.maine.gov/pfr/professionallicensing/index.shtml.