Nail Technician License Requirements in New York
- Training hours
- 250 hrs
- Upfront cost
- $70
- Exam
- Nail Specialty Written Examination, Nail Specialty Practical Examination
- Renewal cycle
- Every 4 years
- Issuing board
- New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services
How to get licensed
- 1
Meet the prerequisites
Be at least 17 years old, Completion of a 250-hour approved course of study. A physical exam and health certification from a physician, physician's assistant, or nurse practitioner is required within 30 days of application. Applicants must self-disclose criminal convictions and pending criminal charges. [1]
- 2
Complete approved training
Complete 250 hours of training at a state-approved program. Alternatively, applicants can complete a 1-year registered traineeship under a licensed Nail Specialist, followed by a 27-hour approved trainee course of study. All education paths require a 1-hour course on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Awareness. [1]
- 3
Nail Specialty Written Examination
Pass the Nail Specialty Written Examination (fee: $15). Multiple-choice Candidates are allowed 2.5 hours to complete the multiple-choice exam. Available in 12 languages. [1]
- 4
Nail Specialty Practical Examination
Pass the Nail Specialty Practical Examination (fee: $15). Candidates must bring their own supplies to perform tasks evaluated during the practical exam. [1]
- 5
Submit your application
Submit your application to New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services with the $40 application fee. [1]
- 6
Receive your license
Once your application is approved, New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services issues your Nail Specialty for New York.
Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application fee [1] | $40 |
| License fee [1] | None specified |
| Renewal fee [1] | $40 |
| Nail Specialty Written Examination [1] | $15 |
| Nail Specialty Practical Examination [1] | $15 |
| Temporary License [1] | $10 |
| Temporary License Renewal [1] | $10 |
| Late Renewal Penalty [1] | $10 |
The initial application fee is $40. There is no separate license fee beyond the application fee. A 6-month temporary license is $10.
Renewal & continuing education
Renew every 4 years.
No continuing education hours are required for timely renewal. If a license has been expired for 185 days or more, the licensee must complete 14 hours of approved continuing education for each lapsed year.
Reciprocity
Endorsement/reciprocity from another state is available.
New York does not offer direct reciprocity, but has endorsement agreements with specific states. Otherwise, out-of-state applicants may request a waiver of the schooling requirement by submitting proof of equivalent training, but must pass the state examinations.
11 state-approved training providers in New York — browse programs and compare schools on tradecolleges.org.
Cost calculator
- $40
- $15
- $15
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a physical to be licensed?
Yes. You need to be examined by a physician, physician's assistant or nurse practitioner to apply for a license in Nail Specialty. The physician, physician's assistant or nurse practitioner must complete and date the Health Certification section of the application. You must submit your application within 30 days after the certification is signed and dated.
Is there reciprocity?
No. However, New York holds endorsement agreements with other states. Applicants from those states may obtain a license without exams or further education.
Does it matter if I take my written or practical exam first?
It does not matter which order you take your written and practical exams. You must have at least one passing grade should you need to renew your temporary license.
Can I renew my temporary license?
You must have a passing mark on either your written or practical exam to renew your temporary license. You may continue to schedule your exam online, but you may not be actively practicing Appearance Enhancement during this time.
What if my license has expired?
If your license status is 'expired' you should not submit a new application, but renew your existing license by claiming your record online. However, if your license has been expired for over 5 years, it becomes inactive and you must reapply.
Sources
- [1] dos.ny.gov/get-nail-specialty-license — accessed 2026-07-12
- [2] dos.ny.gov/renew-or-update-nail-specialty-license — accessed 2026-07-12