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Nail Tech Schools in Massachusetts

If you’re interested in a career as a nail technician, Massachusetts is a great place to start your search. The state is home to a number of well-known nail salons, including those that cater to celebrities and other high-profile clients. As a result, there are plenty of opportunities for talented and ambitious nail technicians to find work. In addition, the cost of living in Massachusetts is relatively high, which means that there is a constant demand for manicures and pedicures.

Check out our listings below to start your career journey by finding a nail tech school near you in Massachusetts.

Nail Tech Schools in Massachusetts

State Requirements for Nail Technician Licensing in Massachusetts

  • A hundred (100) hours of schooling from a Board approved training program.
  • License renewal every two (2) years.

How Much Do Massachusetts Nail Tech Programs Cost?

Costs for a nail tech program can range quite a bit depending on your location and the school you end up choosing. On the low end, some programs can be found for as little as $2,500, while some broader cosmetology programs that provide a nail tech certification can cost up to $10,000 or more. That total includes tuition, your kit, textbooks, registration fee(s), and tax.

Required Skills and Classes

Students in Massachusetts can quickly earn a license through a 100-hour training program that includes the following subjects:

  • First aid
  • Safety and sanitation
  • Artificial nail techniques
  • Professional ethics
  • Salon management
  • State laws
  • Basic manicuring with hand/arm massage
  • Hygiene
  • Anatomy

State Licensing Exam

Upon finishing your nail tech program, your school will provide the necessary application to apply for a nail technician examination. The test will be held in one of Pearson Vue’s centers. A $120 will be paid before scheduling and a $68 fee during the actual exam for licensing.

  • Written Exam – this test is comprised of 50 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. Topics included are:
  • Rules, regulations, and safety:
    • Sanitation
    • Disinfection
    • Personal hygiene
    • Client contact
  • Nail structure and nail analysis:
    • Nail condition
    • Health conditions precluding treatment
  • Professional services:
    • Massage
    • Manicure
    • Pedicure
  • Nail enhancements:
    • Applying and removing nail tips
    • Applying and removing gels and acrylics
    • Tools, equipment, products
    • Maintenance
    • Nail repair

Please note that the passing score for this theoretical exam is 75.

  • Practical Exam – test takers are required to bring their supplies along with an adult model (at least 16 years old with unmanicured and unpolished fingernails) to perform 5 nail-related tasks within 90 minutes which are:
    • Infection control and safety
    • Basic manicure
    • Nail tip application
    • Hand and arm massage
    • Polish application

Please note that the passing score for this hands-on exam is 80.

How Much Do Nail Techs Get Paid in Massachusetts?

Nail tech professionals working in Massachusetts can expect an average salary of $32,210 per year or $15.49 per hour.

Does Massachusetts Have Continuing Education Requirements for Nail Technicians?

Massachusetts does not require continuing education credits as part of the license renewal process.

Contact Information for Licensing Board

For questions about licensing for nail technicians in Massachusetts, you can learn more by contacting the board directly.

Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetologists
Address: 1000 Massachusetts Street Suite 710, Boston, MA 02118
Website: https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-manicuring-license-or-application
Email: [email protected]
Call: 617-727-9940
Fax: 617-727-1627