StateLicensed

Nail Technician License Requirements in Mississippi

Verified · July 2026
Training hours
350 hrs
Upfront cost
$75
Exam
National Nail Technology Theory Examination
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
Issuing board
Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering

How to get licensed

  1. 1

    Meet the prerequisites

    Be at least 17 years old, Completion of at least 10th grade education or its equivalent. Applicants must disclose felony convictions. Criminal history is reviewed under the Fresh Start Act. [1]

  2. 2

    Complete approved training

    Complete 350 hours of training at a state-approved program. Requires 350 training hours at a board-licensed school (over a minimum of 9 weeks) or 700 hours in an approved apprenticeship program. [1]

  3. 3

    National Nail Technology Theory Examination

    Pass the National Nail Technology Theory Examination. Computer-based testing Effective February 2, 2026, the practical exam has been eliminated. Only the written theory exam is required for licensure. Testing fees are paid directly to Prometric. [2]

  4. 4

    Submit your application

    Submit your application to Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering with the $25 application fee. Typical processing time: 2-3 weeks. [2]

  5. 5

    Receive your license

    Once your application is approved, Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering issues your Manicurist for Mississippi.

Fees

Fee Amount
Application fee [1] $25
License fee [1] $50
Renewal fee [1] $50
National Nail Technology Theory Examination [2] None specified
Reciprocity Application Fee [1] $55

Renewal & continuing education

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

Continuing education is only required for instructors (24 hours per renewal cycle).

Reciprocity

Endorsement/reciprocity from another state is available.

Reciprocity is available for out-of-state licensees with equivalent qualifications.

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

Cost calculator

  • $25
  • $50
Total$75

Frequently asked questions

What are the training hour requirements for a manicurist/nail technician license in Mississippi?

You must complete 350 training hours in a board-licensed school or 700 hours in an approved apprenticeship program.

Is there a practical exam required for a manicurist/nail technician license in Mississippi?

No, the practical examination requirement was officially eliminated by the Board effective February 2, 2026. Applicants are only required to pass the written/theory examination.

How often must a manicurist/nail technician license be renewed in Mississippi?

The license must be renewed every two years.

Are there any continuing education (CE) hours required to renew a manicurist/nail technician license?

No, there are no continuing education hours required for standard manicurist/nail technician license renewals in Mississippi (CE hours are only required for instructors).

Sources

  1. [1] msbcb.ms.gov/licensure-renewals — accessed 2026-07-12
  2. [2] msbcb.ms.gov/examination — accessed 2026-07-12