Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Pennsylvania, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nail Technician in Pennsylvania
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Cosmetology Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$27,480 median (21% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#48 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 Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 27,480, Nail Technicians in Pennsylvania earn 21% below the national median of $34,660. Pennsylvania ranks #48 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$27,480Hourly estimate
$13.2121% below national median
Difference: -$7,180
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#48 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $27,480 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $33,390 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $31,470 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $28,480 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $36,380 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $36,020 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $35,900 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 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. |
| New Jersey | 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. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 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
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Cosmetology Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177837130
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $42,570 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $29,680 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $43,920 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $57,660 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Nail Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Nail Technician in Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Nail Technician licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Pennsylvania is 27,480. Salaries range from $19,770 (10th percentile) to $38,450 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Pennsylvania earn 21% below the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 27,480.
How many Nail Technicians work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 8,680 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Cosmetology Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Cosmetology/Pages/default.aspx.