StateLicensed

Nail Technician License Requirements in Massachusetts

Verified · July 2026
Training hours
100 hrs
Upfront cost
$223
Exam
Manicurist Written Theory Exam
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
Issuing board
Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering

How to get licensed

  1. 1

    Meet the prerequisites

    Pass a criminal background check. A notarized Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) acknowledgment form is required with the application. The Board does not specify a minimum age or educational level (like high school diploma) for manicurist licensure. [5]

  2. 2

    Complete approved training

    Complete 100 hours of training at a state-approved program. Requires a course of at least 100 hours of professional training in manicuring in a school approved by the Board. [1]

  3. 3

    Manicurist Written Theory Exam

    Pass the Manicurist Written Theory Exam (fee: $155). Written Theory The practical portion of the examination was eliminated effective October 2, 2023. Candidates are only required to pass the written theory exam. [2]

  4. 4

    Submit your application

    Submit your application to Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering with the $68 application fee. [3]

  5. 5

    Receive your license

    Once your application is approved, Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering issues your Manicurist for Massachusetts.

Fees

Fee Amount
Application fee [3] $68
License fee [3] None specified
Renewal fee [3] $68
Manicurist Written Theory Exam [2] $155
Late Renewal Fee [3] $57
Certified Statement of Registration [3] $15
Duplicate License [3] $17
Name Change [3] $27

No separate initial license fee is charged; the licensing cost is included in the $68 application fee. Exam fees are paid directly to the exam vendor (PSI).

Renewal & continuing education

Renew every 2 years. 0 continuing education hours required per cycle.

Licenses must be renewed biennially on the licensee's birthday. No continuing education is required for renewal.

Reciprocity

Endorsement/reciprocity from another state is available.

Reciprocity is available for out-of-state applicants with active licenses in good standing from states with equivalent standards. Out-of-state applicants without active licenses must pass the Massachusetts written theory exam.

2 state-approved training providers in Massachusetts — browse programs and compare schools on tradecolleges.org.

Cost calculator

  • $68
  • $155
Total$223

Frequently asked questions

How many hours of training are required to become a licensed manicurist in Massachusetts?

You must successfully complete a course of at least 100 hours of professional training in manicuring at a Board-approved school.

Do I need to take a practical examination to get my manicurist license in Massachusetts?

No, the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering eliminated the practical (hands-on) portion of licensing exams effective October 2, 2023. You are only required to pass the written theory exam administered by PSI.

How often do I need to renew my manicurist license in Massachusetts?

Manicurist licenses must be renewed biennially (every two years) on your birthday. The renewal fee is $68.

Is continuing education required to renew a manicurist license in Massachusetts?

No, there are currently no state-mandated continuing education hours required for the renewal of a manicurist license in Massachusetts.

Can I transfer my manicurist license from another U.S. state to Massachusetts?

Yes, the Board may license any U.S. license holder whose current license is in good standing from another state that maintains standards substantially equivalent to those of Massachusetts. Out-of-state applicants who do not hold a current active license in good standing must pass the Massachusetts written theory exam.

Sources

  1. [1] mass.gov/doc/240-cmr-2-licensure-of-cosmetologists-manicurists-aestheticians-demonstrators-and-instructors/download — accessed 2026-07-12
  2. [2] mass.gov/info-details/how-can-i-become-a-cosmetologist-electrologist-manicurist-aesthetician-or-barber — accessed 2026-07-12
  3. [3] mass.gov/info-details/fees-and-license-renewal-schedules-for-cosmetology-barbering-and-electrology — accessed 2026-07-12
  4. [4] mass.gov/regulations/240-CMR-200-licensure-of-cosmetologists-manicurists-aestheticians-demonstrators-and-instructors — accessed 2026-07-12
  5. [5] mass.gov/how-to/cosmetology-barbering-and-electrology-licensing — accessed 2026-07-12