StateLicensed

Nail Technician License Requirements in New Hampshire

Verified · July 2026
Training hours
300 hrs
Upfront cost
$242
Exam
National Manicurist Theory Examination (Written), National Manicurist Practical Examination
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
Issuing board
New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics

How to get licensed

  1. 1

    Meet the prerequisites

    Be at least 16 years old, High school diploma or equivalent. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age and have completed high school or its equivalent. Criminal background checks/fingerprinting are not required for licensure under this board. [1]

  2. 2

    Complete approved training

    Complete 300 hours of training at a state-approved program. Requires completion of at least 300 hours of training in a board-approved school, or 600 hours of apprenticeship training under a licensed manicurist. [1]

  3. 3

    National Manicurist Theory Examination (Written)

    Pass the National Manicurist Theory Examination (Written) (fee: $88). Computer-based or Remote Administered by Prov using NIC standards. The written exam can be taken at a computer-based testing site or remotely via Examroom.ai. [2]

  4. 4

    National Manicurist Practical Examination

    Pass the National Manicurist Practical Examination (fee: $99). In-person Administered in-person at the Prov testing center in Concord, NH. [2]

  5. 5

    Submit your application

    Submit your application to New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics with the $55 application fee. [2]

  6. 6

    Receive your license

    Once your application is approved, New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics issues your Manicurist for New Hampshire.

Fees

Fee Amount
Application fee [2] $55
License fee [2] None specified
Renewal fee [2] $55
National Manicurist Theory Examination (Written) [2] $88
National Manicurist Practical Examination [2] $99
Apprentice Application Fee [2] $55

The initial application fee of $55.00 covers the first license; there is no separate licensing fee. An apprentice license application is also $55.00.

Renewal & continuing education

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

Licenses must be renewed every 2 years. There are no continuing education hours required for manicurists.

Reciprocity

Endorsement/reciprocity from another state is available.

Licensure by endorsement is available for applicants who hold an active, unrestricted license in another jurisdiction with substantially similar requirements.

Cost calculator

  • $55
  • $88
  • $99
Total$242

Frequently asked questions

How many training hours are required for a manicurist license in New Hampshire?

You must complete at least 300 hours of professional training in a board-approved school or complete a minimum of 600 hours under a licensed manicurist apprentice program.

What is the renewal cycle and fee for manicurists in New Hampshire?

Licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal fee is $55.00.

Is continuing education required to renew a manicurist license in New Hampshire?

No, there are currently no continuing education requirements for renewing a manicurist license in New Hampshire.

Who administers the manicurist licensing exams in New Hampshire?

The licensing exams are administered by Prov, Inc. (using National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology standards).

Where can I take the practical exam in New Hampshire?

The practical exam must be taken in-person at the Prov testing center in Concord, NH.

Sources

  1. [1] gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/XXX/313-A/313-A-12.htm — accessed 2026-07-12
  2. [2] oplc.nh.gov/board-barbering-cosmetology-and-esthetics — accessed 2026-07-12
  3. [3] oplc.nh.gov/apply-and-renew — accessed 2026-07-12