Top 10 Skills Employers Are Looking For
Estheticians, electrologists and related occupations
This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation’s 100 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Sep 23, 2022 and Oct 19, 2022.
Review these skills to learn:
- Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
- What training you may need to get these skills
- What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Tasks: Clean, trim and polish nails | 62 |
---|---|
Tasks: Provide gel and acrylic nail extensions | 59 |
- Minimum Education Varies
There are no standard requirements for nail technicians. However, a high school diploma and related training are assets. Some salons ask for training in specific spa services . Workshops and training programs are available for those who want to specialize in nail care.
Nail technicians must have training from a recognized school to buy products from professional suppliers. Those interested in this work should discuss training options with practicing nail technicians, potential employers, and suppliers.
Many beauty salons employ just one nail technician. The shops that specialize in this field tend to be small. As a result, on-the-job training may be difficult to find.
To expand or narrow your search for programs related to this occupation, visit Post-Secondary Programs.
There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta.
Florida Nail Technician License Fees And Hours
$40 initial registration fee
Nail theory and practice: 85 hours Manicures: 20 hours Tips with overlay: 37.5 hours Sculpting: 37.5 hours Nail wraps and mending: 15 hours Nail fill-ins: 10 hours Artificial nail removal: 5 hours Polishing and nail art: 5 hours
Are you ready to explore your career options and get started in the world of beauty? Compare your options now by contacting Florida nail technician programs.
Nail Technician License And Certification: Starting Your Professional Journey
Working as a nail technician can be a very rewarding job. Being a nail technician is ideal for anyone who enjoys making others look and feel beautiful.
To be a successful nail tech, youll need to know:
- How to care for the customers hands and feet
- How to recognize a problem that needs medical attention
- How to use tools and chemicals safely, such as clippers, nail files and nail polishes
- How to clean the tools you’re using between customers
- How to make your client feel comfortable
To become a nail technician, youll need to complete nail tech training and get your nail technician license. Those are two separate processes you have to undertake in order to start off your career.
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Successfully Complete An Approved Manicurist Program
Your road to becoming a licensed manicurist in California begins with the completion of a manicurist program that has been approved by the Board. You can view a list of approved schools here. Most manicurist programs are completed in a cosmetology school, although there are also a number of dedicated nail technology schools in California.
According to industry statistics published by NAILS Magazine, 80 percent of all nail technicians in California are Vietnamese. As such, there are a number of nail technician programs in California aimed at Vietnamese immigrants. Many of these programs do not require students to speak any English.
An approved nail technology program in California must consist of at least 400 hours of technical instruction and practical training. Instruction must include the following:
- Technical instruction and practical training in nail care
- Manicures and pedicures
- Disinfection and sanitation
- Bacteriology, anatomy, and physiology
The Board also recommends that nail technology programs provide training in professional ethics, salesmanship, record-keeping, decorum, client service record cards, and basic tax responsibilities.
Note: There are currently no apprenticeship programs for manicurist licensure in California.
Completing A Nail Technician Program Or Apprenticeship

To achieve licensure as a nail technician in the U.S., candidates must first complete a course of education and training, either through a traditional nail technology program or by participating in a nail technician apprenticeship.
Nail Technology Program
The duration and structure of nail technology programs are typically designed around the state licensing requirements of a particular state. Although each state has similar licensing requirements for nail technicians, the length of the program and the programs curriculum will likely mirror the requirements for licensure in the state in which it is located. Many state boards of cosmetology maintain lists of approved nail technician programs in the state.
It is important that students understand their states requirements for achieving a manicurist license when choosing a program as to ensure the program meets state requirements. For example, candidates for a nail technician license in California must complete a program that is at least 450 hours in duration, while in Pennsylvania candidates need to complete a program that is 200 hours in duration. Some states, like California, require as much as 600 hours of training through a nail technician program, while other states, like Virginia, require as little as 150 hours of training in a nail technology program.
A nail technology program generally consists of two, distinct areas of study: theory study and practical study. Classroom study may involve curriculum such as:
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What Is The Cost To Become A Nail Technician
If you want to become a nail tech, you will need to complete the right training program. The cost can vary from one school to another. You will likely pay between $2,400 and $4,300 for tuition.
While the program you choose will have a cost, you will also need to pay an application fee, license fee, and testing fee. Other fees often cost between $300 and $1,500, including your application, books, tools, and supplies.
Pass Your State’s Licensure Examination
After completing your required coursework and training hours, you can take your state’s nail technician license exam. Exam formats vary by state but are usually a combination of both written and practical application assessments. Once you pass, you can receive your license from your state government’s cosmetology board and begin working as a licensed nail technician.
Related:
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What I Need To Know Before Taking The State Nail Technician License Exam
All states require nail technicians to take and pass the nail technician license exam for your state. The first thing you must do is find a school that fits your goals to train you to become a licensed nail technician. In nail technician school, you will take courses that will teach you nail art, artificial nails , sanitation, manicuring, pedicuring personal ethics, salon management and employer/employee/client relations. You should also be allowed to work on live subjects during the course of your education, as you will be expected to pass a practical part of the nail technician license exam.
Your school may offer some sort of nail technician certification, but should also include some sort of preparation to help you obtain your nail technician license. Most schools that offer nail technician courses that will lead you to the nail technician license requires you to have at least a high school diploma or GED. In most nail technician schools, you can complete the entire course of study within six to nine months. Financial aid is available at most schools.
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Career And Salary Information
Graduates may find employment in salons, spas and wellness centres.
Estheticians, Electrologists and Related Occupations | $24,600 – $56,200 |
Length:
Alternative Admission
Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.
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Nail Tech Training Hour Requirements
Students are required to complete a certain number of training hours in addition to completing their coursework. The number of training hours required will depend on the state in which you attend school, as each has different requirements. For example, you need 250 hours of training to qualify in New York, but 600 in Arizona.
These training hours combine theory and practice, so students can expand on what theyve learned in the classroom and get hands-on experience before entering the field. Students will practice salon services on real clients, including manicures, pedicures, and advanced nail techniques.
What If You Fail To Get A License
We dont mean to scare you! As 50% of the students fail the written exam, we just wanted to help you out. What happens when you fail the exam? Is it the end?
No, its not the end. You can always apply again for the licensure exam. There is no limit, you can take as many tests as you want. As long as you attend the written and practical exam in the same year. And give it your best shot.
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How Long Does It Take To Get A Nail Technician License
3 to 9 months
What license do I need to do nails? Aspiring nail technicians need to complete a state-approved cosmetology or nail technician program, then pass a state exam to become licensed. A small handful of states allow apprenticeships to get started, but this path typically requires more training hours.
Research Your State’s Exam Procedures

Every state has different procedures for licensing nail technicians, so do some research to acquaint yourself with the format of your state’s licensure exam. Some states choose to offer a solely practical exam, meaning members of the board observe and evaluate your performance while providing nail services to a client. Other states have a written exam meant to test you on your knowledge of all nail care elements. Some states use a combination of the two formats, and others use the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology exams rather than creating their own.
Related:FAQ: How Long Does It Take To Become a Nail Tech?
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Nail Tech Program Costs
Program costs generally depend on curriculum and location. Other factors include:
- The hours of instruction required by your state
- Whether you attend part-time or full-time
- The facilities and equipment available
- If the school is private, for-profit, or an established brand institute
Programs that focus solely on training nail technicians usually cost several thousand dollars to complete. Listed below are a couple examples from schools across the country. All prices are as of 2019.
Paul Mitchell The School in Logan UT
$1,818
$4,300 tuition +$500 books and tools
Individual programs usually offer scholarships. You can also visit the federal student aid website to review the loans, grants, and financial aid available to you.
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How To Get A Nail Tech License Renewed In Texas
With your nail technician license in TX, you can start your career and make an impression on your clients with your high-quality work. The renewal process is simple. Every two years, starting with your original licensure date, you must pay a $50 renewal fee.
During each renewal cycle, you must complete four hours of continuing education. One hour must cover sanitation and safety. The other three hours can relate to any nail technology topic.
If youre ready to learn how to get a nail technician license, Texas schools are ready to help you out. Use the list of schools below to contact programs near you.
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Nail Technician License Renewal
Nail technicians in Washington must renew their licenses after two years. The renewal fee is $55, and it is payable to the Department of Licensing. If you apply for license renewal online, you can pay with MasterCard, Visa, or American Express. The Department of Licensing does not accept gift cards. Online renewal is more convenient because it takes only 14 days to get a new license. In comparison, renewal by mail could take up to 90 days before you can get a new license.
The renewal fee for late applicants is $110. However, you should never delay your license renewal for more than a year. The Washington Board of Cosmetology will cancel it and you will have to re apply and take re take the states nail technician exam. In addition, practicing with an expired license is illegal and you could pay a fine of up to $1,000 for breaking the law.
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Professional Online Nail Tech Course Outline
Unit One Anatomy and Physiology of the Skin
The skin is the largest organ of the body and has many functions. We are most aware of it as it covers every inch of the body. It is the component of the body which is most exposed to injury. Daily we tend to bring minor trauma to our skin. Our skin is taken for granted. In fact, it is a very complex organ whose correct functioning is essential to life.
The Epidermis
The outer layer which varies in thickness from place to place.
The Dermis
The dermis is attached to the epidermis by projections from the dermis called papillae. The dermis is the inner layer which consists of fibrous and connective tissue.
Sweat Glands
The main part of the sweat gland is situated in the dermis. The duct, however, spirals towards the surface through the epidermis. The gland is made up of a tightly convoluted tube which is lined by cubical epithelium and surrounded by a network of capillaries.
Nails
HAIR
Most parts of the skin are covered by hair either course or downy. No hair is found on the palms of the hand or soles of the feet. The roots of the hairs are found in the dermis.
Unit Two Anatomy of the Nail
Learning outcomes of the unit are:
How are our hands able to move?
Common injuries and conditions:
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Finish A Cosmetology Program
If you couldnt complete a cosmetology program in high school, you would need to complete one after.
Usually, you will find these programs through technical colleges, community colleges, and, of course, cosmetology schools. Some of the courses you will take include cosmetology chemistry, nail disorders, artificial nails, and disinfection and sanitation.
Some of the other courses you might take include:
- Histology of Hands and Nails
- Customer Relations
While a cosmetology school will help provide you with the skills you need, its also a chance to start building your portfolio. You want to save any work you can and build a portfolio to present it when looking for a job in the future.
How Next Insurance Helps Nail Technicians
At NEXT, we make it easy to get the nail tech insurance you need to protect your business. Our customized insurance packages allow you to mix and match policies to get the right amount of coverage.
Our online application streamlines the purchasing process. You can apply, get a quote, see policy options and purchase coverage all in less than 10 minutes. When your purchase is complete, you’ll have immediate access to your certificate of insurance.
Get an instant quote today.
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Student Aid British Columbia
Mirage Spa Education has compiled a Student Aid BC Handbook This is your first stop in understanding the requirements, obligations, and policies before applying to Student Aid BC. Please read through the handbook carefully before beginning your application process online.
Refund Policy
TUITION REFUND POLICY
Can I Run A Nail Business From Home

Starting your own nail business in the professional beauty industry can be extremely rewarding, and nail care services have boomed over the last few years. Starting your nail business at home has many benefits, including convenience, lower set-up costs, and the chance to build local and regular clientele.
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