Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Rhode Island, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nail Technician in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 3
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 4
A Telecommunications System Technician works under the supervision of the holder of a Contractor license.
- 5
Limited Installer installs wiring and related devices under supervision of a holder of a higher license.
- 6
A holder of a Telecommunications System Technician license may qualify for a Telecommunications System Contractor license which permits the holder to employ licensed workers to perform the actual work on systems.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Labor and Training • Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$36,180 median (4% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#16 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island eligibility requirements for Nail Technician licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 5. Submit the application to RI Department of Labor and Training~Professional Regulation and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of $36,180, Nail Technicians in Rhode Island earn 4% above the national median of $34,660. Rhode Island ranks #16 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$36,180Hourly estimate
$17.394% above national median
Difference: +$1,520
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#16 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $36,180 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $34,180 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $32,640 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Massachusetts | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 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
Official website verified
RI Department of Labor and Training • Professional Regulation
1511 Pontiac Ave, Cranston, RI, 02920
Phone: 4014628580
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $38,960 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Cosmetologist | $30,510 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $38,310 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $57,950 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Rhode Island?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Rhode Island is $36,180. Salaries range from $33,280 (10th percentile) to $45,480 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Rhode Island earn 4% above the national median of $34,660, with a state median of $36,180.
How many Nail Technicians work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 410 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Labor and Training / Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://dlt.ri.gov/regulation-and-safety/professional-regulation.
How often do you renew a Nail Technician license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.