Hawaii Nail Technology — Requirements & Free Practice
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Beauty Operator License — Nail Technician
The nail-technician classification of the Hawaii Beauty Operator license, including issuance, added classification, renewal, restoration, reactivation and reapplication after revocation.
Licensing authority: Hawaii Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs · Application information
Add the Nail Technician classification to an existing Hawaii Beauty Operator license: apprenticeship training
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Completion Deadline
- The current application states that the license process and examination must be completed within one year, otherwise a new application under current requirements is necessary.
- Disciplinary Disclosures
- Answer the criminal-conviction and license-discipline questions and provide the statements, orders, probation or parole evidence, references and criminal-history checks the application requests for affirmative answers.
- Exam Alternatives
- Either pass the PSI National Nail Technician Theory Test, or submit the passing NIC Nail Technology Theory score accepted by the current application. The PSI examination is currently offered but has no version in the frozen nationwide registrations; it is retained here as a condition and its leaf is omitted pending nationwide registration.
- Existing License
- Hold a current Hawaii Beauty Operator license in another classification and satisfy the additional nail-classification training requirement.
- Fees
- Submit the signed application, nonrefundable application fee, and applicable license and compliance-resolution fees.
- Foreign Training
- Training obtained in another jurisdiction must be substantially equivalent, or the Board evaluates its type and duration and the experience needed for that jurisdiction’s license.
- General Education
- Education equivalent to completion of high school. HAR §16-78-20(b) accepts one year of licensed beauty-operator experience in another jurisdiction as satisfying this equivalency.
- Minimum Age
- At least 16 years old.
- Prior Nic Score
- Submit proof of passing the NIC examination, such as a Score Report or Pass Report from the licensing authority where the applicant held or holds a license. A passing score excuses sitting the Hawaii-delivered examination; the currently offered NIC examination remains a requirement reference.
- Reciprocity
- The Board FAQ states: "No, licensees from other states or jurisdictions must qualify and apply for a Hawaii beauty operator licensure. The Hawaii Board has no reciprocal arrangements with any other board of cosmetology."
- Social Security Number
- Provide the Social Security Number required by the application.
- Source Currency
- The April 2025 FAQ still names Prometric; the December 12, 2025 official memorandum and the November 2025 applications replace that vendor information with PSI for 2026.
- Training
- Complete 700 apprenticeship hours under a qualified licensee; submit the Progress Report and Notice of Completion or Withdrawal. Training before apprentice registration receives no credit.
- Translations
- Non-English supporting documents require the original English translation and a declaration by a translator other than the applicant attesting to accuracy and fluency.
- Work Authorization
- A U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Add the Nail Technician classification to an existing Hawaii Beauty Operator license: combined school and apprenticeship training
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Completion Deadline
- The current application states that the license process and examination must be completed within one year, otherwise a new application under current requirements is necessary.
- Disciplinary Disclosures
- Answer the criminal-conviction and license-discipline questions and provide the statements, orders, probation or parole evidence, references and criminal-history checks the application requests for affirmative answers.
- Exam Alternatives
- Either pass the PSI National Nail Technician Theory Test, or submit the passing NIC Nail Technology Theory score accepted by the current application. The PSI examination is currently offered but has no version in the frozen nationwide registrations; it is retained here as a condition and its leaf is omitted pending nationwide registration.
- Existing License
- Hold a current Hawaii Beauty Operator license in another classification and satisfy the additional nail-classification training requirement.
- Fees
- Submit the signed application, nonrefundable application fee, and applicable license and compliance-resolution fees.
- Foreign Training
- Training obtained in another jurisdiction must be substantially equivalent, or the Board evaluates its type and duration and the experience needed for that jurisdiction’s license.
- General Education
- Education equivalent to completion of high school. HAR §16-78-20(b) accepts one year of licensed beauty-operator experience in another jurisdiction as satisfying this equivalency.
- Minimum Age
- At least 16 years old.
- Prior Nic Score
- Submit proof of passing the NIC examination, such as a Score Report or Pass Report from the licensing authority where the applicant held or holds a license. A passing score excuses sitting the Hawaii-delivered examination; the currently offered NIC examination remains a requirement reference.
- Reciprocity
- The Board FAQ states: "No, licensees from other states or jurisdictions must qualify and apply for a Hawaii beauty operator licensure. The Hawaii Board has no reciprocal arrangements with any other board of cosmetology."
- Social Security Number
- Provide the Social Security Number required by the application.
- Source Currency
- The April 2025 FAQ still names Prometric; the December 12, 2025 official memorandum and the November 2025 applications replace that vendor information with PSI for 2026.
- Training
- A Board-evaluated combination equivalent to 350 beauty-school hours: two apprenticeship hours equal one school hour. The Board FAQ requires training not more than three years old and may decline overlapping training hours.
- Translations
- Non-English supporting documents require the original English translation and a declaration by a translator other than the applicant attesting to accuracy and fluency.
- Work Authorization
- A U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Add the Nail Technician classification to an existing Hawaii Beauty Operator license: beauty school training
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Completion Deadline
- The current application states that the license process and examination must be completed within one year, otherwise a new application under current requirements is necessary.
- Disciplinary Disclosures
- Answer the criminal-conviction and license-discipline questions and provide the statements, orders, probation or parole evidence, references and criminal-history checks the application requests for affirmative answers.
- Exam Alternatives
- Either pass the PSI National Nail Technician Theory Test, or submit the passing NIC Nail Technology Theory score accepted by the current application. The PSI examination is currently offered but has no version in the frozen nationwide registrations; it is retained here as a condition and its leaf is omitted pending nationwide registration.
- Existing License
- Hold a current Hawaii Beauty Operator license in another classification and satisfy the additional nail-classification training requirement.
- Fees
- Submit the signed application, nonrefundable application fee, and applicable license and compliance-resolution fees.
- Foreign Training
- Training obtained in another jurisdiction must be substantially equivalent, or the Board evaluates its type and duration and the experience needed for that jurisdiction’s license.
- General Education
- Education equivalent to completion of high school. HAR §16-78-20(b) accepts one year of licensed beauty-operator experience in another jurisdiction as satisfying this equivalency.
- Minimum Age
- At least 16 years old.
- Prior Nic Score
- Submit proof of passing the NIC examination, such as a Score Report or Pass Report from the licensing authority where the applicant held or holds a license. A passing score excuses sitting the Hawaii-delivered examination; the currently offered NIC examination remains a requirement reference.
- Reciprocity
- The Board FAQ states: "No, licensees from other states or jurisdictions must qualify and apply for a Hawaii beauty operator licensure. The Hawaii Board has no reciprocal arrangements with any other board of cosmetology."
- Social Security Number
- Provide the Social Security Number required by the application.
- Source Currency
- The April 2025 FAQ still names Prometric; the December 12, 2025 official memorandum and the November 2025 applications replace that vendor information with PSI for 2026.
- Training
- Complete 350 hours of nail-technology training in a beauty school; submit a transcript breaking down subjects and hours.
- Translations
- Non-English supporting documents require the original English translation and a declaration by a translator other than the applicant attesting to accuracy and fluency.
- Work Authorization
- A U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Initial licensure with apprenticeship training
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Completion Deadline
- The current application states that the license process and examination must be completed within one year, otherwise a new application under current requirements is necessary.
- Disciplinary Disclosures
- Answer the criminal-conviction and license-discipline questions and provide the statements, orders, probation or parole evidence, references and criminal-history checks the application requests for affirmative answers.
- Exam Alternatives
- Either pass the PSI National Nail Technician Theory Test, or submit the passing NIC Nail Technology Theory score accepted by the current application. The PSI examination is currently offered but has no version in the frozen nationwide registrations; it is retained here as a condition and its leaf is omitted pending nationwide registration.
- Fees
- Submit the signed application, nonrefundable application fee, and applicable license and compliance-resolution fees.
- Foreign Training
- Training obtained in another jurisdiction must be substantially equivalent, or the Board evaluates its type and duration and the experience needed for that jurisdiction’s license.
- General Education
- Education equivalent to completion of high school. HAR §16-78-20(b) accepts one year of licensed beauty-operator experience in another jurisdiction as satisfying this equivalency.
- Minimum Age
- At least 16 years old.
- Prior Nic Score
- Submit proof of passing the NIC examination, such as a Score Report or Pass Report from the licensing authority where the applicant held or holds a license. A passing score excuses sitting the Hawaii-delivered examination; the currently offered NIC examination remains a requirement reference.
- Reciprocity
- The Board FAQ states: "No, licensees from other states or jurisdictions must qualify and apply for a Hawaii beauty operator licensure. The Hawaii Board has no reciprocal arrangements with any other board of cosmetology."
- Social Security Number
- Provide the Social Security Number required by the application.
- Source Currency
- The April 2025 FAQ still names Prometric; the December 12, 2025 official memorandum and the November 2025 applications replace that vendor information with PSI for 2026.
- Training
- Complete 700 apprenticeship hours under a qualified licensee; submit the Progress Report and Notice of Completion or Withdrawal. Training before apprentice registration receives no credit.
- Translations
- Non-English supporting documents require the original English translation and a declaration by a translator other than the applicant attesting to accuracy and fluency.
- Work Authorization
- A U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Initial licensure with combined school and apprenticeship training
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Completion Deadline
- The current application states that the license process and examination must be completed within one year, otherwise a new application under current requirements is necessary.
- Disciplinary Disclosures
- Answer the criminal-conviction and license-discipline questions and provide the statements, orders, probation or parole evidence, references and criminal-history checks the application requests for affirmative answers.
- Exam Alternatives
- Either pass the PSI National Nail Technician Theory Test, or submit the passing NIC Nail Technology Theory score accepted by the current application. The PSI examination is currently offered but has no version in the frozen nationwide registrations; it is retained here as a condition and its leaf is omitted pending nationwide registration.
- Fees
- Submit the signed application, nonrefundable application fee, and applicable license and compliance-resolution fees.
- Foreign Training
- Training obtained in another jurisdiction must be substantially equivalent, or the Board evaluates its type and duration and the experience needed for that jurisdiction’s license.
- General Education
- Education equivalent to completion of high school. HAR §16-78-20(b) accepts one year of licensed beauty-operator experience in another jurisdiction as satisfying this equivalency.
- Minimum Age
- At least 16 years old.
- Prior Nic Score
- Submit proof of passing the NIC examination, such as a Score Report or Pass Report from the licensing authority where the applicant held or holds a license. A passing score excuses sitting the Hawaii-delivered examination; the currently offered NIC examination remains a requirement reference.
- Reciprocity
- The Board FAQ states: "No, licensees from other states or jurisdictions must qualify and apply for a Hawaii beauty operator licensure. The Hawaii Board has no reciprocal arrangements with any other board of cosmetology."
- Social Security Number
- Provide the Social Security Number required by the application.
- Source Currency
- The April 2025 FAQ still names Prometric; the December 12, 2025 official memorandum and the November 2025 applications replace that vendor information with PSI for 2026.
- Training
- A Board-evaluated combination equivalent to 350 beauty-school hours: two apprenticeship hours equal one school hour. The Board FAQ requires training not more than three years old and may decline overlapping training hours.
- Translations
- Non-English supporting documents require the original English translation and a declaration by a translator other than the applicant attesting to accuracy and fluency.
- Work Authorization
- A U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
New license application after revocation
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Completion Deadline
- The current application states that the license process and examination must be completed within one year, otherwise a new application under current requirements is necessary.
- Disciplinary Disclosures
- Answer the criminal-conviction and license-discipline questions and provide the statements, orders, probation or parole evidence, references and criminal-history checks the application requests for affirmative answers.
- Exam Alternatives
- Either pass the PSI National Nail Technician Theory Test, or submit the passing NIC Nail Technology Theory score accepted by the current application. The PSI examination is currently offered but has no version in the frozen nationwide registrations; it is retained here as a condition and its leaf is omitted pending nationwide registration.
- Fees
- Submit the signed application, nonrefundable application fee, and applicable license and compliance-resolution fees.
- Foreign Training
- Training obtained in another jurisdiction must be substantially equivalent, or the Board evaluates its type and duration and the experience needed for that jurisdiction’s license.
- General Education
- Education equivalent to completion of high school. HAR §16-78-20(b) accepts one year of licensed beauty-operator experience in another jurisdiction as satisfying this equivalency.
- Minimum Age
- At least 16 years old.
- Previous Revocation
- Wait at least five years after the effective date of revocation and comply with the current requirements for new applicants.
- Prior Nic Score
- Submit proof of passing the NIC examination, such as a Score Report or Pass Report from the licensing authority where the applicant held or holds a license. A passing score excuses sitting the Hawaii-delivered examination; the currently offered NIC examination remains a requirement reference.
- Reciprocity
- The Board FAQ states: "No, licensees from other states or jurisdictions must qualify and apply for a Hawaii beauty operator licensure. The Hawaii Board has no reciprocal arrangements with any other board of cosmetology."
- Social Security Number
- Provide the Social Security Number required by the application.
- Source Currency
- The April 2025 FAQ still names Prometric; the December 12, 2025 official memorandum and the November 2025 applications replace that vendor information with PSI for 2026.
- Translations
- Non-English supporting documents require the original English translation and a declaration by a translator other than the applicant attesting to accuracy and fluency.
- Waiver Discretion
- HRS §436B-21 permits the licensing authority to waive applicable education or examination requirements when documentation establishes equivalent knowledge, competence and qualifications maintained through experience, training or education.
- Work Authorization
- A U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Initial licensure based on a license and experience in another jurisdiction
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Completion Deadline
- The current application states that the license process and examination must be completed within one year, otherwise a new application under current requirements is necessary.
- Disciplinary Disclosures
- Answer the criminal-conviction and license-discipline questions and provide the statements, orders, probation or parole evidence, references and criminal-history checks the application requests for affirmative answers.
- Exam Alternatives
- Either pass the PSI National Nail Technician Theory Test, or submit the passing NIC Nail Technology Theory score accepted by the current application. The PSI examination is currently offered but has no version in the frozen nationwide registrations; it is retained here as a condition and its leaf is omitted pending nationwide registration.
- Fees
- Submit the signed application, nonrefundable application fee, and applicable license and compliance-resolution fees.
- Foreign Training
- Training obtained in another jurisdiction must be substantially equivalent, or the Board evaluates its type and duration and the experience needed for that jurisdiction’s license.
- General Education
- Education equivalent to completion of high school. HAR §16-78-20(b) accepts one year of licensed beauty-operator experience in another jurisdiction as satisfying this equivalency.
- Minimum Age
- At least 16 years old.
- Prior Nic Score
- Submit proof of passing the NIC examination, such as a Score Report or Pass Report from the licensing authority where the applicant held or holds a license. A passing score excuses sitting the Hawaii-delivered examination; the currently offered NIC examination remains a requirement reference.
- Reciprocity
- The Board FAQ states: "No, licensees from other states or jurisdictions must qualify and apply for a Hawaii beauty operator licensure. The Hawaii Board has no reciprocal arrangements with any other board of cosmetology."
- Social Security Number
- Provide the Social Security Number required by the application.
- Source Currency
- The April 2025 FAQ still names Prometric; the December 12, 2025 official memorandum and the November 2025 applications replace that vendor information with PSI for 2026.
- Training
- Submit the other jurisdiction’s beauty-operator license or board verification. Substantially equivalent training is recognized; if its training-hour requirement is below Hawaii’s, submit proof of at least one year of licensed beauty-operator experience or make up the training deficiency. This is qualification recognition and not automatic reciprocity.
- Translations
- Non-English supporting documents require the original English translation and a declaration by a translator other than the applicant attesting to accuracy and fluency.
- Work Authorization
- A U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
New application after forfeiture exceeding three years
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Board Exam Discretion
- HRS §439A-14(c) permits the Board to require taking and passing the examination. The current application accepts prior NIC scores and otherwise directs applicants to PSI.
- Completion Deadline
- The current application states that the license process and examination must be completed within one year, otherwise a new application under current requirements is necessary.
- Disciplinary Disclosures
- Answer the criminal-conviction and license-discipline questions and provide the statements, orders, probation or parole evidence, references and criminal-history checks the application requests for affirmative answers.
- Exam Alternatives
- Either pass the PSI National Nail Technician Theory Test, or submit the passing NIC Nail Technology Theory score accepted by the current application. The PSI examination is currently offered but has no version in the frozen nationwide registrations; it is retained here as a condition and its leaf is omitted pending nationwide registration.
- Fees
- Submit the signed application, nonrefundable application fee, and applicable license and compliance-resolution fees.
- Foreign Training
- Training obtained in another jurisdiction must be substantially equivalent, or the Board evaluates its type and duration and the experience needed for that jurisdiction’s license.
- General Education
- Education equivalent to completion of high school. HAR §16-78-20(b) accepts one year of licensed beauty-operator experience in another jurisdiction as satisfying this equivalency.
- Lower Ranked Restoration Instruction
- HAR §16-78-5.5(b)(4) states: "Should the restoration request be made after three years from the date of forfeiture, a written explanation along with supporting documentation shall be necessary and shall be subject to approval." This additional instruction does not replace the new-application requirement in HRS §439A-14(c).
- Minimum Age
- At least 16 years old.
- Previous License
- A nail-technician license was forfeited more than three years ago. Apply as a new applicant under current requirements.
- Prior Nic Score
- Submit proof of passing the NIC examination, such as a Score Report or Pass Report from the licensing authority where the applicant held or holds a license. A passing score excuses sitting the Hawaii-delivered examination; the currently offered NIC examination remains a requirement reference.
- Reciprocity
- The Board FAQ states: "No, licensees from other states or jurisdictions must qualify and apply for a Hawaii beauty operator licensure. The Hawaii Board has no reciprocal arrangements with any other board of cosmetology."
- Social Security Number
- Provide the Social Security Number required by the application.
- Source Currency
- The April 2025 FAQ still names Prometric; the December 12, 2025 official memorandum and the November 2025 applications replace that vendor information with PSI for 2026.
- Translations
- Non-English supporting documents require the original English translation and a declaration by a translator other than the applicant attesting to accuracy and fluency.
- Work Authorization
- A U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Initial licensure with beauty school training
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Completion Deadline
- The current application states that the license process and examination must be completed within one year, otherwise a new application under current requirements is necessary.
- Disciplinary Disclosures
- Answer the criminal-conviction and license-discipline questions and provide the statements, orders, probation or parole evidence, references and criminal-history checks the application requests for affirmative answers.
- Exam Alternatives
- Either pass the PSI National Nail Technician Theory Test, or submit the passing NIC Nail Technology Theory score accepted by the current application. The PSI examination is currently offered but has no version in the frozen nationwide registrations; it is retained here as a condition and its leaf is omitted pending nationwide registration.
- Fees
- Submit the signed application, nonrefundable application fee, and applicable license and compliance-resolution fees.
- Foreign Training
- Training obtained in another jurisdiction must be substantially equivalent, or the Board evaluates its type and duration and the experience needed for that jurisdiction’s license.
- General Education
- Education equivalent to completion of high school. HAR §16-78-20(b) accepts one year of licensed beauty-operator experience in another jurisdiction as satisfying this equivalency.
- Minimum Age
- At least 16 years old.
- Prior Nic Score
- Submit proof of passing the NIC examination, such as a Score Report or Pass Report from the licensing authority where the applicant held or holds a license. A passing score excuses sitting the Hawaii-delivered examination; the currently offered NIC examination remains a requirement reference.
- Reciprocity
- The Board FAQ states: "No, licensees from other states or jurisdictions must qualify and apply for a Hawaii beauty operator licensure. The Hawaii Board has no reciprocal arrangements with any other board of cosmetology."
- Social Security Number
- Provide the Social Security Number required by the application.
- Source Currency
- The April 2025 FAQ still names Prometric; the December 12, 2025 official memorandum and the November 2025 applications replace that vendor information with PSI for 2026.
- Training
- Complete 350 hours of nail-technology training in a beauty school; submit a transcript breaking down subjects and hours.
- Translations
- Non-English supporting documents require the original English translation and a declaration by a translator other than the applicant attesting to accuracy and fluency.
- Work Authorization
- A U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Reactivation after paying active renewal
- Existing Inactive License
- Hold a Hawaii license on inactive status and submit the signed reactivation application, with disclosures of license discipline and criminal convictions since inactivation.
- Fees
- Pay the applicable reactivation fee and any active renewal and compliance-resolution fee difference.
- Renewal Paid
- Previously paid the active renewal fee.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- hrs-436b-13-3.html
HRS §436B-13.3(c)(5), reactivation
- reactivation.pdf
Printed requirements page 2, cosmetology individual reactivation rows
Reactivation after paying inactive renewal
- Existing Inactive License
- Hold a Hawaii license on inactive status and submit the signed reactivation application, with disclosures of license discipline and criminal convictions since inactivation.
- Fees
- Pay the applicable reactivation fee and any active renewal and compliance-resolution fee difference.
- Renewal Paid
- Previously paid the inactive renewal fee.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- hrs-436b-13-3.html
HRS §436B-13.3(c)(5), reactivation
- reactivation.pdf
Printed requirements page 2, cosmetology individual reactivation rows
Biennial renewal
- Deadline
- December 31 of each odd-numbered year.
- Existing License
- Hold the existing license and file renewal with the renewal fee.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- hrs-439a-14.html
HRS §439A-14(a), individual and shop renewal
Restoration within three years of forfeiture
- Application
- File the restoration application with signature; pay delinquent renewal fees and the penalty fee.
- Previous License
- The license was forfeited through nonrenewal no more than three years ago.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- hrs-439a-14.html
HRS §439A-14(c), restoration within three years
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
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 1, title page effective and revision dates
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 6, Domain Details, meaning of the percentages
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 6, domain I heading
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 6, domain II heading
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 7, domain III heading
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 7, domain IV heading
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 7, domain V heading
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 8, domain VI heading
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 8, domain VII heading
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 9, domain VIII heading
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 8, domain VI.A.6 massage types
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 6, Domain Details, item count and weighting
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 3, time allowed
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 10, Sample Questions introduction
- NIC National Nail Technology Theory Examination CIB (Effective Date: September 01, 2025; Revision Date: March 01, 2026)
PDF page 3, instruction to obtain the most current bulletin
- NIC Exam Types page (nictesting.org)
NIC Exam Types page, introductory paragraph, second sentence
- NIC Candidate Information Bulletin Selection (NIC CIB portal linked from nictesting.org)
CIB selection portal Overview, currency of bulletins without a year in the title