Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in North Carolina, 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 North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Board of Pharmacy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$34,810 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#25 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 34,810, Nail Technicians in North Carolina earn 0% above the national median of $34,660. North Carolina ranks #25 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$34,810Hourly estimate
$16.740% above national median
Difference: +$150
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#25 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $34,810 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $36,970 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $30,030 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $26,500 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $25,980 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | 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. |
| Georgia | 19 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
NC Board of Pharmacy
6015 Farrington Rd, Ste. 201, Chapel Hill, NC, 27517
Phone: 9192461050ext208
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $64,290 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $36,140 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $46,120 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $61,670 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Nail Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Nail Technician in North Carolina?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Nail Technician licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in North Carolina is 34,810. Salaries range from $19,550 (10th percentile) to $94,110 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in North Carolina earn 0% above the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 34,810.
How many Nail Technicians work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 1,880 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Nail Technicians in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board of Pharmacy. Review agency details at https://www.ncbop.org/.