Nail Technology Schools in North Carolina

Browse our directory of nail technology schools in North Carolina, or skip ahead to learn about the state's nail technology licensing requirements and job outlook.

How to Become a Manicurist in North Carolina

What would you do with a beauty career that makes the most of your talents and interests? Would you work in a North Carolina salon, helping clients relax after a long day and giving them perfect nails every time?

Would you open your own salon and have more freedom over your own schedule? No matter what your career goals are, it's clear that it all starts with education. Find out if a nail technician career is the right move for you.

State License Requirements

Your nail technician career is under the oversight of the North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners. They charge a reasonable $20 licensing fee when you submit your application. From there, you can take both licensing exams. If you pass them, you are ready to get your license and put it to work.

Education Details

North Carolina nail tech training gives you the core skills and knowledge you need to hold your own in a salon. In this state, nail technician applicants must have at least 300 hours of training before applying. Your education should focus primarily on the required training topics below.

Topics Taught at NC Nail Tech Programs

• Manicuring and pedicuring theory and technique
• Disinfection
• First aid
• Nail trimming, filing, and shaping
• Nail decorating
• Hand and arm massage
• Sculptured nails
• Artificial nails
• Pedicuring
• Caring for the fingernails, toenails, cuticles, nail extensions, and artificial nails
• Electric file use
• Business management

License Renewal

Professional beauty licenses expire on October 1 across the state, but different professions renew in different years. Cosmetologists must renew licenses every 3 years, completing 24 continuing education hours during that 3-year period. Estheticians, manicurists and cosmetology instructors all renew annually, and 8 hours of continuing education must be completed during that time. Cosmetologist licenses are $49 to renew, whereas estheticians, manicurists, instructors and apprentices all pay $20 to renew.

North Carolina Nail Technology Careers

No matter where you decide to work in North Carolina, you could benefit from the state's growing beauty industry. Between 2016 and 2026, CareerOneStop expects job openings for North Carolina nail technicians to increase 19% (2020). The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an average salary of $20,910 per year in a North Carolina (2020). As you build your reputation and get to know other nail care professionals, you could become self-employed, earn more money from tips, open your own salon, or focus on specific parts of nail care that fit your skills.

The Job Outlook for a Nail Technologist in North Carolina appears to have plenty of room for growth. Nail Techs can expect little to no competition in the NC market. With a location quotient of 0.30 North Carolina is considered to have a lower employment level for this occupation, hence the need for more people, as well as owners, in this industry.

• Rose Nails - Cary, NC
• Diva Nails & Spa - Raleigh, NC

Contact the North Carolina State Board of Nail Technology

If you need help updating a change of name or address, acquiring out-of-state transfer forms, or need help with additional questions about obtaining a North Carolina cosmetology license, contact the NC Board using the information above.