Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Tied to business
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health • Division of Regulatory Boards • Division of Regulatory Boards
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$30,030 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 30,030, Nail Technicians in Tennessee earn 13% below the national median of $34,660. Tennessee ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,297Median annual salary
$30,030Hourly estimate
$14.4413% below national median
Difference: -$4,630
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#41 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $30,030 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $60,950 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $36,970 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $34,810 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $26,500 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $27,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $42,370 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $27,780 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $38,950 | No educational requirements | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 54 | 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. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 19 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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 Health • Division of Regulatory Boards • Division of Regulatory Boards
665 Mainstream Drive 2nd floor, Nashville, TN, 37243
Phone: 6157412718
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $31,230 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $29,170 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $36,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $49,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Nail Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Nail Technician in Tennessee?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Nail Technician licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Tennessee is 30,030. Salaries range from $17,090 (10th percentile) to $49,180 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Tennessee earn 13% below the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 30,030.
How many Nail Technicians work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 1,280 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Health / Division of Regulatory Boards / Division of Regulatory Boards.