StateLicensed

Nail Technician License Requirements in Missouri

Verified · July 2026
Training hours
400 hrs
Upfront cost
$150
Exam
Nail Technology Theory (Written) Exam, Nail Technology Practical Exam
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
Issuing board
Missouri Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners

How to get licensed

  1. 1

    Meet the prerequisites

    Be at least 17 years old, 10th grade. Proof of successful completion of the 10th grade (at least 10 high school credits) is required. Fingerprint background checks are not standard for manicurist applicants. Verified via archive snapshot 2026-06-24. [1]

  2. 2

    Complete approved training

    Complete 400 hours of training at a state-approved program. School training requires a minimum of 400 hours. Alternatively, an apprenticeship program requires a minimum of 800 hours under a board-approved supervisor. Verified via archive snapshot 2026-06-24. [1]

  3. 3

    Nail Technology Theory (Written) Exam

    Pass the Nail Technology Theory (Written) Exam (fee: $90). Verified via archive snapshot 2025-06-10. [2]

  4. 4

    Nail Technology Practical Exam

    Pass the Nail Technology Practical Exam (fee: $60). Verified via archive snapshot 2025-06-10. [2]

  5. 5

    Submit your application

    Submit your application to Missouri Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. Typical processing time: 3-5 business days. [5]

  6. 6

    Receive your license

    Once your application is approved, Missouri Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners issues your Class MO - Manicurist for Missouri.

Fees

Fee Amount
Application fee [3] None specified
License fee [3] None specified
Renewal fee [3] $60
Nail Technology Theory (Written) Exam [2] $90
Nail Technology Practical Exam [2] $60
Student Enrollment Application Fee [3] $25

No separate initial application or licensing fee is charged by the Board for candidates applying by examination; applicants pay a $25 student enrollment fee and exam fees directly to the testing vendor, as established under 20 CSR 2085-3.010. Verified via archive snapshot 2025-12-15.

Renewal & continuing education

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

Missouri manicurist licenses are renewed biennially on September 30 of odd-numbered years. There are no continuing education requirements for renewal. Verified via archive snapshot 2026-06-24.

Reciprocity

Endorsement/reciprocity from another state is available.

Licensure by reciprocity is available. Reciprocity applicants must submit a $100 fee and pass an open-book Missouri state law examination. Verified via archive snapshot 2026-06-24.

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

Cost calculator

  • $90
  • $60
Total$150

Frequently asked questions

What are the training hour requirements to get a manicurist license in Missouri?

You must complete a minimum of 400 hours of training in a licensed school of cosmetology or manicuring, or a minimum of 800 hours under a board-approved apprentice supervisor.

Which vendor administers the manicurist licensing examinations in Missouri?

The Board contracts with Prov, Inc. to administer the written and practical licensing examinations. You must schedule and pay for examinations directly with Prov after receiving Board approval.

What is the license renewal cycle for manicurists in Missouri?

Manicurist licenses expire on September 30 of every odd-numbered year. Missouri does not require continuing education hours for manicurists to renew their licenses.

What are the age and education prerequisites for a manicurist license in Missouri?

Applicants must be at least 17 years old by the time they apply for examination and have completed at least the 10th grade (or home schooling equivalent).

Sources

  1. [1] sos.mo.gov/cmsimages/adrules/csr/current/20csr/20c2085-12.pdf — accessed 2026-07-12
  2. [2] pr.mo.gov/boards/cosmetology/provcib.pdf — accessed 2026-07-12
  3. [3] sos.mo.gov/cmsimages/adrules/csr/current/20csr/20c2085-3.pdf — accessed 2026-07-12
  4. [4] sos.mo.gov/cmsimages/adrules/csr/current/20csr/20c2085-7.pdf — accessed 2026-07-12
  5. [5] pr.mo.gov/cosbar-forms.asp — accessed 2026-07-12