Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MO Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Missouri
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Missouri, 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 Missouri
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Tied to business
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: No 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
Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division Of Professional Registration • Missouri State Board of Pharmacy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$38,950 median (12% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 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 Missouri
With a median salary of 38,950, Nail Technicians in Missouri earn 12% above the national median of $34,660. Missouri ranks #8 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,232Median annual salary
$38,950Hourly estimate
$18.7312% above national median
Difference: +$4,290
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#8 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | $38,950 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $38,530 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $34,520 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $60,950 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $30,030 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $27,780 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $29,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $30,650 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $36,560 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | 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. |
| Arkansas | 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
Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division Of Professional Registration • Missouri State Board of Pharmacy
3605 Missouri Boulevard, P.O. Box 625, Jefferson City, MO, 65102-0625
Phone: 5737510091ext8007352966
Related Careers in Missouri
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $44,390 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $30,390 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $49,410 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $66,870 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Missouri?
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 Missouri?
Missouri lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Nail Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Nail Technician in Missouri?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Nail Technician licensure in Missouri.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Missouri?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Missouri is 38,950. Salaries range from $25,580 (10th percentile) to $51,320 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Missouri compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Missouri earn 12% above the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 38,950.
How many Nail Technicians work in Missouri?
Missouri employs approximately 1,480 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Missouri 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 Missouri?
The licensing agency is Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance / Division Of Professional Registration / Missouri State Board of Pharmacy. Review agency details at http://pr.mo.gov/pharmacists.asp.