Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Michigan, 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 Michigan
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Professional Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$34,920 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#23 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 Michigan
With a median salary of 34,920, Nail Technicians in Michigan earn 1% above the national median of $34,660. Michigan ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$34,920Hourly estimate
$16.791% above national median
Difference: +$260
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#23 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $34,920 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $35,900 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $33,090 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $34,180 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Indiana | 54 | 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. |
- 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
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Professional Licensing
P.O. Box 30670, Lansing, MI, 48909
Phone: 5172410199
Related Careers in Michigan
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $29,390 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $35,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $46,620 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $54,510 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Michigan?
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 Michigan?
Michigan 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 Michigan?
The board typically expects Degree required for Nail Technician licensure in Michigan.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Michigan is 34,920. Salaries range from $22,860 (10th percentile) to $50,160 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Michigan earn 1% above the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 34,920.
How many Nail Technicians work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 920 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Michigan 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 Michigan?
The licensing agency is Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs / Bureau of Professional Licensing. Review agency details at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-89334_72600---,00.html.