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Delaware Nail Technology — Requirements & Free Practice

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Nail Technician

Individual license limited to manicuring, pedicuring and sculpting nails, including acrylic nails.

Licensing authority: Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering / Division of Professional Regulation · Application information

Licensure by examination apprenticeship

All of the following:

Application
Submit the approved application, required transcripts and fee through Prometric for initial examination licensure.
Board timing statement
{"quote":"Nail Technician, Electrologist or Aesthetician.\n\n\nonly supervise a maximum of \ntwo\n apprentices at a time.\n\n\nbe qualified to supervise an apprentice as follows:\n\n\n\nA Cosmetologist, Master Barber, Barber, Nail Technician, Electrologist or Aesthetician may supervise an Apprenticeship in their own type of licensure (e.g. a Cosmetologist may supervise a Cosmetologist Apprentice.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA Master Barber may also supervise a Barber Apprentice.\n\n\n\nMaster Barber vs. Barber – You will have to choose to do an apprenticeship as either Master Barber or Barber. In Delaware, a Master Barber is allowed to perform chemical processing, but a Barber is not.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA Cosmetology Instructor may supervise a Barber or Master Barber Apprentice \nonly if\n the Cosmetology Instructor has completed 35 hours of training in shaving.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA Cosmetologist may also supervise a Nail Technician Apprentice or Aesthetician Apprentice.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe shop/salon you select to work in must:\n\n\n\n\nhold a current professional \nCosmetology/Barbering Establishment license\n.\n\n\nhave at least one person who is licensed in the same profession (e.g. Nail Technology, Electrology, Aesthetics, Barbering, or Cosmetology) where the apprentice is training.\n\n\n\n\n\n A shop owner cannot work as an apprentice in his/her own shop \n (\n24 \nDel. C\n. §5121 (d)\n).\n\n\n\n\n\nInformation on How to Apply for a License in DELPROS\n\n\n\n\nAll applications are submitted our online system DELPROS. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nClick on the titles below in each section to expand the information. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\n\nPRIOR TO APPLYING \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\nIn order to apply for a license or submit a service request, you must first have a \n\nDELPROS\n user account \n. To LOG IN or CREATE a DELPROS (Delaware Professional Regulation Online Services) user account:\n\n\n\n\nGo to: \nhttps://delpros.delaware.gov/OH_HomePage\n.\n\n\nClick \nGO \n on the \nApply/Manage a License and Service Requests \n tile.\n\n\nIf you\n do not\n have a DELPROS user account, click the \nREGISTER\n button on the \n left \n side of page for\n NEW USERS. \n\n\n\nIf you already have a DELPROS user account, enter your email address and password on the \n right \nside for \n EXISTING USERS \nand click the\n LOGIN \nbutton.\n\n\n\n\n\nDELPROS \nallows you to save your incomplete application and return to it later to finish the process. \nYou only have six (6) months to submit your application once you begin. \n\n\n\n\n\nIf you do not submit your application within six months of starting it, you will be required to restart the entire online application again.\n\n\n\n\nYou may check the status of your application online throughout the entire application process by using the “View Application Status” feature in \nDELPROS \non your e-License dashboard.\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\n\nKNOW YOUR REQUIREMENTS AND COLLECT YOUR DOCUMENTS\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\nKnow the requirements for the license you are pursuing.\n\n\n\nFor more information on the requirements for licensure, refer to your profession’s \nLicense Law \n and \nRules and Regulations\n.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRequest and gather all documents required to upload on the Attachments page. All information and forms are located on your profession’s webpages.\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\n\nATTACHING AND ACKNOWLEDGING DOCUMENTS \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\nOn the ATTACHMENTS page of your application, you may be instructed to:\n\n\n\n\neither \n “attach” or “upload” \n the required document(s) directly to your application. This means you will find the document(s) saved on your computer or device and upload it to your application, or .\n\n\n\n\n\n\nclick \n “acknowledge” \n. This means you will either mail the documents yourself or request the “third-party” to mail the document(s) directly to the Board office.\n\n\n\nExamples of “third-party forms” are transcripts from schools, employment verifications from a supervisor, or license verifications from another state.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nForms requiring a supervisor signature, seal, or notary may have to be \n MAILED \n to the Board office directly \n\nUNLESS\n\n the document specifically indicates to \nUPLOAD\n the document.\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\n\nREQUIREMENTS\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\nIn addition to submitting the application and fee in DELPROS, you must submit:\n\n\n\n\nProof that you have a high school education equivalent to completing \nat least the 10th grade\n. Arrange for the Board office to receive one of the following as proof of your high school education:\n\n\n\nA copy of your official GED certificate \nor\n an official high school transcript if you went to high school \nin the U.S. or a U.S. territory\n.\n\n\n\nThe high school must send the transcripts directly to the Board office.\n\n\nIf your document is not in English, the Board office to receive a translation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA credential evaluation to determine if your education is equivalent to Delaware’s requirement if you went to school \noutside the U.S. or its territories\n.\n\n\nAgencies that provide credentialing and translation services are listed on \nwww.naces.org\n.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAn \n\nInformation About the Shop/Salon Where the Apprenticeship Will Be Served\n \n form completed and signed by the shop owner.  The form also provides for verification of supervision that is completed and signed by your supervising apprentice teacher.\n\n\n\n\n\nDocumenting Apprenticeship Hours\n\n\n\n\n\nThe apprentice teacher and apprentice should maintain records of the hours accrued on the \n\nApprenticeship Log\n\n. Hours can be logged daily, weekly, or monthly. The log must be signed by both the apprentice and the apprentice teacher.\n\n\nEvery three (3) months, the apprentice must submit a signed log documenting clock hours obtained to date. To upload the documented clock hours apprenticeship log, the apprentice must log into their \nDELPROS\n portal dashboard. In the blue navigation banner at the top, click “SERVICE REQUEST”, and the service request type will be “Apprenticeship Documentation”.\n\n\n\nNote:\n Submitting your hourly log on a 3-month basis ensures your hours are recorded in DELPROS and helps prevent misplaced logs during the apprenticeship.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n LICENSE TYPE \n\n\n\n\n HOURS \n\n\n\n\n PERIOD DURING WHICH HOURS MUST BE COMPLETED \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCosmetologist\n\n\n3000\n\n\n18 months – 36 months\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMaster Barber\n\n\n3000\n\n\n18 months – 36 months\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBarber\n\n\n3000\n\n\n18 months – 36 months\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNail Technician\n\n\n600\n\n\n6 weeks – 12 months","source":"Board Apprenticeship page, documenting hours table","value":"The Board webpage table states 6 weeks to 12 months for a nail technician, while controlling rule 3.3.5 states not less than 15 weeks to 12 months. The rule supplies the governing minimum."}
Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Completion
Supervisor submits signed training transcript and hours log; the apprentice license is terminated on completion.
Education
Provide proof of education equivalent to completion of tenth grade; foreign records require acceptable translation and credential evaluation.
Fitness
Meet §5107(a)(4)-(8): professional disciplinary history, impairment, substantially related criminal convictions or pending charges, and unresolved professional proceedings are subject to the stated Board review and waiver provisions.
Issuance
Obtain a Division of Revenue occupational license before professional license issuance if required by Chapter 23 of Title 30.
Military training
Under 29 Del. C. §8735(p)(6), the Board accepts qualifying military training, education or experience if substantially equivalent; every other licensure requirement, including examinations, remains applicable.
Professional training
Complete 600 hours of licensed, supervised apprenticeship; training may not exceed 40 hours per week excluding make-up hours. Rule 3.3.5 sets 15 weeks to 12 months, subject to approved extension.
Licensure by examination foreign training

All of the following:

Application
Submit the approved application, required transcripts and fee through Prometric for initial examination licensure.
Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Education
Provide proof of education equivalent to completion of tenth grade; foreign records require acceptable translation and credential evaluation.
Fitness
Meet §5107(a)(4)-(8): professional disciplinary history, impairment, substantially related criminal convictions or pending charges, and unresolved professional proceedings are subject to the stated Board review and waiver provisions.
Issuance
Obtain a Division of Revenue occupational license before professional license issuance if required by Chapter 23 of Title 30.
Military training
Under 29 Del. C. §8735(p)(6), the Board accepts qualifying military training, education or experience if substantially equivalent; every other licensure requirement, including examinations, remains applicable.
Professional training
Foreign-trained applicants must provide evidence satisfactory to the Board of training equivalent to §5107(a)(3), acceptable translation and educational credential evaluation, and meet all other qualifications.
Licensure by examination school begun before June 26, 2010

All of the following:

Application
Submit the approved application, required transcripts and fee through Prometric for initial examination licensure.
Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Education
Provide proof of education equivalent to completion of tenth grade; foreign records require acceptable translation and credential evaluation.
Fitness
Meet §5107(a)(4)-(8): professional disciplinary history, impairment, substantially related criminal convictions or pending charges, and unresolved professional proceedings are subject to the stated Board review and waiver provisions.
Issuance
Obtain a Division of Revenue occupational license before professional license issuance if required by Chapter 23 of Title 30.
Military training
Under 29 Del. C. §8735(p)(6), the Board accepts qualifying military training, education or experience if substantially equivalent; every other licensure requirement, including examinations, remains applicable.
Professional training
Board rule 14.0 states that an applicant who proves school began before June 26, 2010 must complete 125 hours of nail technology education. Section 5107(a)(3)g states the current general 300-hour school requirement; present the prior-school evidence to the Board under its stated transitional rule.
Licensure by examination school training

All of the following:

Application
Submit the approved application, required transcripts and fee through Prometric for initial examination licensure.
Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Education
Provide proof of education equivalent to completion of tenth grade; foreign records require acceptable translation and credential evaluation.
Fitness
Meet §5107(a)(4)-(8): professional disciplinary history, impairment, substantially related criminal convictions or pending charges, and unresolved professional proceedings are subject to the stated Board review and waiver provisions.
Issuance
Obtain a Division of Revenue occupational license before professional license issuance if required by Chapter 23 of Title 30.
Military training
Under 29 Del. C. §8735(p)(6), the Board accepts qualifying military training, education or experience if substantially equivalent; every other licensure requirement, including examinations, remains applicable.
Professional training
Complete at least 300 hours of nail technology training in a school of nail technology or cosmetology; no more than 40 hours per week excluding make-up hours.
Late renewal of lapsed license within five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board instructions
The Board renewal page allows submission up to five years after expiration; §5111(b) expressly addresses a lapse of less than five years.
Lapse
License lapsed less than five years; submit late renewal application, renewal fee and late fee, plus proof of any required continuing education. Do not practice until license is active.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Continuation and renewal during military deployment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuation
License does not expire for 180 days after return if no continuing education is required, or 270 days if it is; submit renewal documentation within 90 or 180 days after return respectively. All professional licensure obligations remain applicable.
Eligibility
Qualifying military licensee held an active license or permit when deployed; submit official deployment verification and the Division continuation request.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military member or spouse reinstatement within two years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Submit the Title 24 reinstatement documentation, fees, official military status/spouse and duty-station verification; this route excludes a license suspended or revoked unless reinstated before lapse. The ordinary Title 24 renewal pathway for a lapse shorter than five years identifies no examination.
Eligibility
Qualifying military member or spouse assigned to a Delaware duty station; professional license lapsed or expired within two years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reapplication by reciprocity after lapse exceeding five years Method 1

All of the following:

Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Current license
Hold a current nail technician license in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction; provide copies and direct verification from every jurisdiction where licensed.
English
An applicant whose written examination was taken in another language must demonstrate English communication ability under §5109(b).
Exam evidence
The Board requires prior passage of a nationally developed written and practical examination for both reciprocity methods. Passing an examination before application does not remove its currently offered registered identity from the requirement tree. A different unnamed nationally developed examination accepted by the Board remains applicant evidence subject to Board verification.
Good standing
Submit sworn evidence of good standing under §5107(a)(4)-(8).
Prior delaware license
Prior Delaware nail technician license expired more than five years; hold another current license and prove one continuous year of licensed practice in the last five years.
Reciprocity method
At least one current jurisdiction has substantially similar standards, including at least 300 classroom or 600 apprenticeship hours.
Reapplication by reciprocity after lapse exceeding five years Method 2

All of the following:

Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Current license
Hold a current nail technician license in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction; provide copies and direct verification from every jurisdiction where licensed.
English
An applicant whose written examination was taken in another language must demonstrate English communication ability under §5109(b).
Exam evidence
The Board requires prior passage of a nationally developed written and practical examination for both reciprocity methods. Passing an examination before application does not remove its currently offered registered identity from the requirement tree. A different unnamed nationally developed examination accepted by the Board remains applicant evidence subject to Board verification.
Experience
Prove one continuous year of licensed work in the same field during the five years immediately preceding application; provide notarized employer statement or Board-acceptable explanation and alternative documentation.
Good standing
Submit sworn evidence of good standing under §5107(a)(4)-(8).
Prior delaware license
Prior Delaware nail technician license expired more than five years; hold another current license and prove one continuous year of licensed practice in the last five years.
Reciprocity method
All current jurisdictions have less stringent training requirements.
Licensure by reciprocity Method 1

All of the following:

Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Current license
Hold a current nail technician license in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction; provide copies and direct verification from every jurisdiction where licensed.
English
An applicant whose written examination was taken in another language must demonstrate English communication ability under §5109(b).
Exam evidence
The Board requires prior passage of a nationally developed written and practical examination for both reciprocity methods. Passing an examination before application does not remove its currently offered registered identity from the requirement tree. A different unnamed nationally developed examination accepted by the Board remains applicant evidence subject to Board verification.
Good standing
Submit sworn evidence of good standing under §5107(a)(4)-(8).
Reciprocity method
At least one current jurisdiction has substantially similar standards, including at least 300 classroom or 600 apprenticeship hours.
Licensure by reciprocity Method 2

All of the following:

Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Current license
Hold a current nail technician license in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction; provide copies and direct verification from every jurisdiction where licensed.
English
An applicant whose written examination was taken in another language must demonstrate English communication ability under §5109(b).
Exam evidence
The Board requires prior passage of a nationally developed written and practical examination for both reciprocity methods. Passing an examination before application does not remove its currently offered registered identity from the requirement tree. A different unnamed nationally developed examination accepted by the Board remains applicant evidence subject to Board verification.
Experience
Prove one continuous year of licensed work in the same field during the five years immediately preceding application; provide notarized employer statement or Board-acceptable explanation and alternative documentation.
Good standing
Submit sworn evidence of good standing under §5107(a)(4)-(8).
Reciprocity method
All current jurisdictions have less stringent training requirements.
Reinstatement after lapse exceeding five years
National Nail Technology Practical Examination (assessment without a question bank)
Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Lapse
Prior nail technician license lapsed for longer than five years; submit reinstatement application and fee, await Board review, and pass the practical examination again.
New licensure after revocation

All of the following:

Application
Submit the approved application, required transcripts and fee through Prometric for initial examination licensure.
Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Education
Provide proof of education equivalent to completion of tenth grade; foreign records require acceptable translation and credential evaluation.
Fitness
Meet §5107(a)(4)-(8): professional disciplinary history, impairment, substantially related criminal convictions or pending charges, and unresolved professional proceedings are subject to the stated Board review and waiver provisions.
Issuance
Obtain a Division of Revenue occupational license before professional license issuance if required by Chapter 23 of Title 30.
Military training
Under 29 Del. C. §8735(p)(6), the Board accepts qualifying military training, education or experience if substantially equivalent; every other licensure requirement, including examinations, remains applicable.
Revocation
Apply for a new license, successfully complete all examinations and pay all appropriate fees under §5111(d).
Biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Expiration
Nail technician and all instructor licenses expire March 31 of each even year.
Renewal
Renew biennially by application and fee with proof of any Board-established continuing education requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after suspension or removal of probation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board order
The Board must find the deficiencies remedied; satisfy disciplinary or corrective measures imposed under §5114. The statute identifies no separate examination for this restoration pathway; applicant-specific orders remain conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return to unrestricted licensure after voluntary treatment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Treatment
Complete the approved voluntary treatment program and comply with the signed treatment agreement; apply for unrestricted licensure if practice was restricted.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Work Permit for Nail Technology

Temporary supervised work authorization for examination or reciprocity applicants.

Licensing authority: Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering / Division of Professional Regulation · Application information

Temporary work permit pending examinations

All of the following:

Application
Submit the approved application, required transcripts and fee through Prometric for initial examination licensure.
Board conflicting wait
{"quote":"If you do not pass both exams within two years after applying for the permit, your temporary permit will expire. You must wait one year from the date of the last exam, then reapply and meet all requirements for licensure.  These requirements include repeating all educational requirements and re-taking and passing both exams.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Deadline for Passing Exams for Temporary Permit Holders","value":"The Board webpage instead states one year and repeating all educational requirements; the higher-ranked rule supplies the six-month waiting period."}
Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Education
Provide proof of education equivalent to completion of tenth grade; foreign records require acceptable translation and credential evaluation.
Eligibility
Meet examination eligibility requirements and pay appropriate fees before receiving the permit.
Fitness
Meet §5107(a)(4)-(8): professional disciplinary history, impairment, substantially related criminal convictions or pending charges, and unresolved professional proceedings are subject to the stated Board review and waiver provisions.
Issuance
Obtain a Division of Revenue occupational license before professional license issuance if required by Chapter 23 of Title 30.
Military training
Under 29 Del. C. §8735(p)(6), the Board accepts qualifying military training, education or experience if substantially equivalent; every other licensure requirement, including examinations, remains applicable.
Permit term
Valid 30 days past the next available examination date; further permits require proof of failure and registration for the next examination. Eligibility continues for two years after application.
Reapplication wait
Controlling rule 2.3 requires six months from the last examination before making a new temporary permit application after the two-year period.
Supervision
Practice under a licensed nail technician, nail technology instructor, cosmetologist or cosmetology instructor.
Temporary reciprocity permit Method 1

All of the following:

Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Current license
Hold a current nail technician license in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction; provide copies and direct verification from every jurisdiction where licensed.
English
An applicant whose written examination was taken in another language must demonstrate English communication ability under §5109(b).
Exam evidence
The Board requires prior passage of a nationally developed written and practical examination for both reciprocity methods. Passing an examination before application does not remove its currently offered registered identity from the requirement tree. A different unnamed nationally developed examination accepted by the Board remains applicant evidence subject to Board verification.
Good standing
Submit sworn evidence of good standing under §5107(a)(4)-(8).
Permit term
Temporary reciprocity work permit expires 14 calendar days after the Board meeting considering the application; nail technology practice remains under the supervision specified by rule 2.6.
Reciprocity method
At least one current jurisdiction has substantially similar standards, including at least 300 classroom or 600 apprenticeship hours.
Temporary reciprocity permit Method 2

All of the following:

Board version notice
{"quote":"Beginning August 1, 2024,\n\n\n all NIC examinations will be administered on the 2022 version of the NIC theory and practical examinations.","source":"Delaware License by Examination, Examination Content","value":"The Board identifies the NIC theory and practical examinations by license type and labels its August 2024 content transition as the 2022 versions. Its instructions also require selecting the NIC CIB by the examination date. Requirement leaves use the supplied active registered versions of those same examination identities; this survey does not redefine national versions or claim a separate Delaware examination."}
Current license
Hold a current nail technician license in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction; provide copies and direct verification from every jurisdiction where licensed.
English
An applicant whose written examination was taken in another language must demonstrate English communication ability under §5109(b).
Exam evidence
The Board requires prior passage of a nationally developed written and practical examination for both reciprocity methods. Passing an examination before application does not remove its currently offered registered identity from the requirement tree. A different unnamed nationally developed examination accepted by the Board remains applicant evidence subject to Board verification.
Experience
Prove one continuous year of licensed work in the same field during the five years immediately preceding application; provide notarized employer statement or Board-acceptable explanation and alternative documentation.
Good standing
Submit sworn evidence of good standing under §5107(a)(4)-(8).
Permit term
Temporary reciprocity work permit expires 14 calendar days after the Board meeting considering the application; nail technology practice remains under the supervision specified by rule 2.6.
Reciprocity method
All current jurisdictions have less stringent training requirements.

National Nail Technology Practical Examination

This assessment does not have a question bank.

Provider
Developed by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); practical examinations administered by test administration companies and states upon approval and authorization of NIC
Format
Hands-on practical examination in seven core domain sections (six timed sections and an individually examined blood exposure procedure) evaluated by examiners on specified tasks; more than one client set up is required; model or mannequin requirements follow state guidelines; NIC also offers additional practical sections that a state may require
Examination sources

National Nail Technology Theory Examination

Provider
Developed by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); computer-based testing administered by test administration companies and states upon approval and authorization of NIC
Format
Multiple-choice theory examination; each question is followed by four answer options, only one of which is correct
Exam questions
110 items, of which 100 items are weighted and contribute to the final score
Time limit
90 minutes
Examination outline
  • I. Scientific Concepts - Infection Control and Safety Practices (15%) (15%)
    • A. Identify how disease and infection are caused and transmitted
    • B. Recognize and utilize infection control principles — 1. Levels of infection control
    • B. Recognize and utilize infection control principles — 2. Process of infection control (e.g., dispensing products, disposal of materials, use of single- or multi-use implements)
    • C. Apply blood exposure procedures
    • D. Identify adverse reactions to products or services
    • E. Recognize safe handling and storage of chemicals
    • F. Utilize Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
    • G. Identify ways to prevent work injuries (e.g., ventilation, ergonomics)
  • II. Scientific Concepts - Anatomy and Physiology (15%) (15%)
    • A. Identify functions, parts, and structure of the: 1. nails
    • A. Identify functions, parts, and structure of the: 2. skin
    • B. Identify functions and structure (e.g., bones, muscles, and joints) of the: 1. arms and hands
    • B. Identify functions and structure (e.g., bones, muscles, and joints) of the: 2. legs and feet
    • C. Recognize signs, symptoms, and cause of disorders, diseases, and conditions of the: 1. nails
    • C. Recognize signs, symptoms, and cause of disorders, diseases, and conditions of the: 2. skin
  • III. Scientific Concepts - Chemistry of Nail Products (10%) (10%)
    • A. Explain purpose and effects of product ingredients
    • B. Recognize interaction between chemicals
    • C. Recognize physical changes
    • D. Recognize chemical reactions
    • E. Identify common ingredients that may cause harm
  • IV. Nail Technology Procedures- Pre-service process (5%) (5%)
    • A. Client consultation — 1. Identify elements of a client consultation and documentation
    • A. Client consultation — 2. Analyze condition of client’s nails and skin
    • A. Client consultation — 3. Recognize conditions that would prohibit service (contraindications)
    • A. Client consultation — 4. Determine services or products
    • B. Work area preparation — 1. Perform set-up of work station service area
    • B. Work area preparation — 2. Perform client and practitioner sanitation
  • V. Nail Technology Procedures - Nail Service Tools (13%) (13%)
    • A. Identify purpose and function of: 1. Nail equipment (e.g., electric file, pedicure basin)
    • A. Identify purpose and function of: 2. Nail implements (e.g., nail clippers, cuticle pusher)
    • A. Identify purpose and function of: 3. Nail supplies and materials (e.g., cotton, buffer)
    • A. Identify purpose and function of: 4. Nail products (e.g., polish, lotion)
    • B. Follow practices for safe use of tools, supplies, and equipment
  • VI. Nail Technology Procedures - Manicure and Pedicure Services (18%) (18%)
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 1. Trim and shape nails
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 2. Soak
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 3. Cuticle maintenance
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 4. Cleanse nails
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 5. Buff nails
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 6. Demonstrate knowledge of basic massage procedures — a. Knowledge of safe application of massage manipulation
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 6. Demonstrate knowledge of basic massage procedures — b. Recognize mechanics and effects of massage types — i. Effleurage
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 6. Demonstrate knowledge of basic massage procedures — b. Recognize mechanics and effects of massage types — ii. Petrissage
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 6. Demonstrate knowledge of basic massage procedures — b. Recognize mechanics and effects of massage types — iii. Friction
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 6. Demonstrate knowledge of basic massage procedures — b. Recognize mechanics and effects of massage types — iv. Tapotement
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 7. Remove massage product
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 8. Polish nails
    • A. Perform procedures for basic manicure and/or pedicure service — 9. Completion of service
    • B. Perform procedures for add-on services — 1. Paraffin
    • B. Perform procedures for add-on services — 2. Exfoliate
    • B. Perform procedures for add-on services — 3. Thermal (e.g., stone, towel)
  • VII. Nail Technology Procedures - Perform Application Maintenance and Removal Procedures for Nail Enhancement Services (20%) (20%)
    • A. Nail tip
    • B. Acrylics
    • C. Soft, hard, hybrid gels
    • D. Powder dip
  • VIII. Nail Technology Procedures - Perform Post-Service Procedures (4%) (4%)
    • A. After care and client education
    • B. Cleaning and disinfection
Examination sources