StateLicensed

Nail Technician License Requirements in New Jersey

Verified · July 2026
Training hours
300 hrs
Upfront cost
$140
Exam
Written Examination, Practical Examination
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
Issuing board
New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling

How to get licensed

  1. 1

    Meet the prerequisites

    Be at least 17 years old, High school or its equivalent, pass a criminal background check. Requires criminal history record check and fingerprinting. Verified via archive snapshot [2025-03-17]. [1]

  2. 2

    Complete approved training

    Complete 300 hours of training at a state-approved program. Requires 300 hours of instruction in manicuring at an approved school. Verified via archive snapshot [2025-03-17]. [1]

  3. 3

    Written Examination

    Pass the Written Examination. Computer-based Eligibility is electronically uploaded to Prometric by the school. A separate test fee is paid directly to Prometric. Verified via archive snapshot [2025-03-17]. [2]

  4. 4

    Practical Examination

    Pass the Practical Examination. Administered by the Board. The Board's $50 application fee covers the authorization to sit for the exams; there is no separate board fee for the practical exam itself. Verified via archive snapshot [2025-03-17]. [2]

  5. 5

    Submit your application

    Submit your application to New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling with the $50 application fee. [3]

  6. 6

    Receive your license

    Once your application is approved, New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling issues your Manicurist for New Jersey.

Fees

Fee Amount
Application fee [3] $50
License fee [3] $90
Renewal fee [3] $90
Written Examination [2] None specified
Practical Examination [2] None specified
Student Registration Fee [3] $5
Student Permit Fee [3] $5
Temporary Permit Fee [3] $20

Initial license fee is prorated: $90.00 if issued in the first year of the biennial cycle, or $45.00 if issued in the second year. Fees must be paid by check or money order. Verified via archive snapshot [2024-03-05].

Renewal & continuing education

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

Continuing education is not required for manicurist license renewal. Verified via archive snapshot [2024-03-05].

Reciprocity

Endorsement/reciprocity from another state is available.

Licensure by endorsement is available for out-of-state licensees with substantially equivalent training or at least three years of licensed experience in their home state. Verified via archive snapshot [2024-03-05].

8 state-approved training providers in New Jersey — browse programs and compare schools on tradecolleges.org.

Cost calculator

  • $50
  • $90
Total$140

Frequently asked questions

Must I be a citizen of the United States to be eligible for licensure?

No. New Jersey State law allows for all individuals, regardless of citizenship status, to obtain a professional or occupational license in New Jersey if all requirements for licensure are met. Individuals with undocumented status are eligible for licensure and a social security number is not required for licensure.

Can I practice cosmetology and hairstyling while attending school?

Yes, if you hold a student permit, which can be obtained once you have completed half of the required training.

I have a beautician/barber's license from another state; can I work in New Jersey?

No. In order to work in New Jersey you need to have a license issued by the New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling. You must submit an 'out-of-state' application and required documentation and pass the Board's examination. The application must be requested in writing and will be mailed to you.

Can I operate a beauty shop with my manicurist's license?

Yes, but you must apply for a shop license, hold a current manicurist's license issued by the New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling, and have at least three years of work experience as a licensed manicurist or cosmetologist.

Can I have my temporary permit extended?

No. The temporary permit is valid for 120 days and may be issued only one time while you wait to be scheduled for the examination for licensure. Once your permit expires, if you do not have your license, you must stop practicing until you receive your license.

Sources

  1. [1] njconsumeraffairs.gov/cos/Pages/default.aspx — accessed 2026-07-12
  2. [2] njconsumeraffairs.gov/cos/Pages/Applications.aspx — accessed 2026-07-12
  3. [3] njconsumeraffairs.gov/cos/Pages/regulations.aspx — accessed 2026-07-12