Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NJ Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in New Jersey
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- 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
Department of Law and Public Safety • Division of Consumer Affairs • State Board of Pharmacy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$31,470 median (9% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 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 New Jersey
With a median salary of 31,470, Nail Technicians in New Jersey earn 9% below the national median of $34,660. New Jersey ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$31,470Hourly estimate
$15.139% below national median
Difference: -$3,190
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#38 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $31,470 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $33,390 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $27,480 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $28,480 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | 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. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 54 | 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
Department of Law and Public Safety • Division of Consumer Affairs • State Board of Pharmacy
PO Box 45013, Newark, NJ, 7101
Phone: 9735046450
Related Careers in New Jersey
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $49,360 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $44,110 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $46,130 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $56,760 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in New Jersey?
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 New Jersey?
New Jersey lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Nail Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Nail Technician in New Jersey?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Nail Technician licensure in New Jersey.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in New Jersey?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in New Jersey is 31,470. Salaries range from $31,470 (10th percentile) to $46,200 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in New Jersey earn 9% below the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 31,470.
How many Nail Technicians work in New Jersey?
New Jersey employs approximately 10,530 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
The licensing agency is Department of Law and Public Safety / Division of Consumer Affairs / State Board of Pharmacy. Review agency details at https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/phar/Pages/default.aspx.