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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nail Technician in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
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 (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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 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 |
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
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 | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $30,510 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $38,310 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $57,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Rhode Island?
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 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.