Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Massachusetts, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nail Technician in Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Public Safety • Engineering Division
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$34,180 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 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 Massachusetts
With a median salary of 34,180, Nail Technicians in Massachusetts earn 1% below the national median of $34,660. Massachusetts ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$34,180Hourly estimate
$16.431% below national median
Difference: -$480
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#29 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $34,180 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $31,720 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $33,520 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $33,390 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $32,640 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $36,180 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Rhode Island | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- 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
Department of Public Safety • Engineering Division
One Ashburton Place, Room 1301, Boston, MA, 02108
Phone: 6177273200
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $48,990 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $47,740 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $45,600 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $59,470 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Nail Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Nail Technician in Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Nail Technician licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Massachusetts is 34,180. Salaries range from $31,660 (10th percentile) to $44,280 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Massachusetts earn 1% below the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 34,180.
How many Nail Technicians work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 5,400 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Department of Public Safety / Engineering Division. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/dps/.