Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician in Wisconsin, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nail Technician in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
WI Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection • Veterinary Examining Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$34,180 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#30 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 Wisconsin
With a median salary of 34,180, Nail Technicians in Wisconsin earn 1% below the national median of $34,660. Wisconsin ranks #30 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$34,180Hourly estimate
$16.431% below national median
Difference: -$480
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#30 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $34,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $36,140 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $38,530 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $34,520 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $34,920 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
WI Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection • Veterinary Examining Board
P.O. Box 8911, Madison, WI, 53708-8911
Phone: 6082244353
Related Careers in Wisconsin
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $34,360 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $36,550 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $29,880 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $57,530 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician in Wisconsin?
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 Wisconsin?
Wisconsin lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Nail Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Nail Technician in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects Degree required for Nail Technician licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in Wisconsin is 34,180. Salaries range from $22,260 (10th percentile) to $44,450 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in Wisconsin earn 1% below the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 34,180.
How many Nail Technicians work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 2,210 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician license to Wisconsin from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required 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 Wisconsin?
The licensing agency is WI Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection / Veterinary Examining Board. Review agency details at https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/About_Us/VeterinaryExaminingBoard.aspx.