Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NY Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in New York
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in New York, 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 York
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Preliminary/temporary 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
NYS Department of State • Division of Licensing Services • One Commerce Plaza
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$33,390 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#32 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 York
With a median salary of 33,390, Nail Technicians in New York earn 4% below the national median of $34,660. New York ranks #32 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$33,390Hourly estimate
$16.054% below national median
Difference: -$1,270
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#32 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 York | $33,390 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $33,520 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $34,180 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $32,640 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $31,470 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $27,480 | 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 York | 54 | 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. |
| Massachusetts | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| New Jersey | 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. |
- 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
NYS Department of State • Division of Licensing Services • One Commerce Plaza
99 Washington Avenue, P.O. Box 22001, Albany, NY, 12201
Phone: 5184744429
Related Careers in New York
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $32,050 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $33,960 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $45,770 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $58,730 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in New York?
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 York?
New York 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 York?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Nail Technician licensure in New York.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in New York?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in New York is 33,390. Salaries range from $31,200 (10th percentile) to $37,620 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in New York compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in New York earn 4% below the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 33,390.
How many Nail Technicians work in New York?
New York employs approximately 19,770 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to New York 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 York?
The licensing agency is NYS Department of State / Division of Licensing Services / One Commerce Plaza. Review agency details at https://www.dos.ny.gov/.