Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OH Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Ohio
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Ohio, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nail Technician in Ohio
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Ohio Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$35,900 median (4% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 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 Ohio
With a median salary of 35,900, Nail Technicians in Ohio earn 4% above the national median of $34,660. Ohio ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,256Median annual salary
$35,900Hourly estimate
$17.264% above national median
Difference: +$1,240
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#20 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $35,900 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $34,920 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $27,480 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $36,020 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $60,950 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $33,090 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Michigan | 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. |
| West Virginia | 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. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Ohio Board of Nursing
8995 East Main Street, Reynoldsburg, OH, 43068
Phone: 6144663947
Related Careers in Ohio
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $46,930 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $29,440 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $41,660 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $50,430 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Ohio?
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 is the typical Nail Technician salary in Ohio?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Ohio is 35,900. Salaries range from $29,060 (10th percentile) to $73,050 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Ohio compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Ohio earn 4% above the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 35,900.
How many Nail Technicians work in Ohio?
Ohio employs approximately 3,500 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Ohio 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 Ohio?
The licensing agency is Ohio Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.nursing.ohio.gov/.