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Utah Nail Technology — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Restricted or probationary license — nail technology

Restricted or probationary individual nail technology authorization under Utah Code 58-1-304. Issuance is discretionary and imposes individualized monitoring or restrictions.

Licensing authority: Utah Division of Professional Licensing · Application information

Restricted nail technology licensure by endorsement

At least one of the following alternatives:

Division discretion
Issuance is discretionary under 58-1-304; comply with the individualized restrictions.
Documentation
Pay the fee and provide satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications, and good standing under 58-1-302(5).
Eligibility
Satisfy an applicable endorsement pathway under 58-1-302; the restrictions accommodate conduct bearing on qualifications.
Other jurisdiction exams
Examinations or examination scores used to establish education, competency, or prior licensure in another jurisdiction are applicant evidence; another jurisdiction's own examination is not a Utah examination leaf.
Prior licensure
An applicant with the required licensed-practice experience need not have the other license currently active under R156-1-302(2).
Qualification review
The Division may refuse endorsement for reasonable cause to doubt qualifications or for previous or pending disciplinary action under 58-1-302(4).
Restriction
Conduct bears on qualifications, and the Division determines that monitoring, supervision, or reasonable restrictions are needed to allow licensure while protecting public health, safety, and welfare.
Restricted initial nail technology licensure

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Division discretion
Issuance is discretionary under 58-1-304; comply with the individualized restrictions.
Education
Meet the current school or approved-apprenticeship qualifications for a new nail technology license.
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Restriction
Conduct bears on qualifications, and the Division determines that monitoring, supervision, or reasonable restrictions are needed to allow licensure while protecting public health, safety, and welfare.
Restricted reinstatement when new license examination requirements apply

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Division discretion
Issuance is discretionary under 58-1-304; comply with the individualized restrictions.
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Reinstatement
Meet current licensing qualifications and order-specific conditions. The two-to-five-year and continuous-practice no-exam restorations are separately retained under the ordinary credential.
Restriction
Conduct bears on qualifications, and the Division determines that monitoring, supervision, or reasonable restrictions are needed to allow licensure while protecting public health, safety, and welfare.
Restricted renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Division discretion
Issuance is discretionary under 58-1-304; comply with the individualized restrictions.
Renewal
Submit renewal application, fee, and proof of renewal qualifications; obey the restriction or probation order.
Restriction
Conduct bears on qualifications, and the Division determines that monitoring, supervision, or reasonable restrictions are needed to allow licensure while protecting public health, safety, and welfare.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Nail technology license

Individual licensure for the practice of nail technology under Utah Code 58-11a-302.20. Apprenticeship registration is a training exemption under 58-11a-301 and 304, not a separate nail technology license.

Licensing authority: Utah Division of Professional Licensing · Application information

Relicensure following surrender while not in good standing

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Board review
Provide the Division and Board requested evidence of current competence and pay required fees and outstanding fines where applicable.
Current qualifications
Meet current initial nail technology licensing qualifications and the applicable reinstatement or relicensure requirements.
Disciplinary order
For reinstatement under R156-1-308i, the disciplinary order may specify different terms; those applicant-specific conditions and waivers do not remove the current registered exam references.
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Reinstatement after disciplinary term or expiration while disciplined

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Board review
Provide the Division and Board requested evidence of current competence and pay required fees and outstanding fines where applicable.
Current qualifications
Meet current initial nail technology licensing qualifications and the applicable reinstatement or relicensure requirements.
Disciplinary order
For reinstatement under R156-1-308i, the disciplinary order may specify different terms; those applicant-specific conditions and waivers do not remove the current registered exam references.
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Relicensure following revocation

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Board review
Provide the Division and Board requested evidence of current competence and pay required fees and outstanding fines where applicable.
Current qualifications
Meet current initial nail technology licensing qualifications and the applicable reinstatement or relicensure requirements.
Disciplinary order
For reinstatement under R156-1-308i, the disciplinary order may specify different terms; those applicant-specific conditions and waivers do not remove the current registered exam references.
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Licensure by examination after approved apprenticeship

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Board rule hours
The statute governs the 300-hour minimum. The current March 24, 2025 rule still states: (8) the instructor shall provide training and technical instruction of 375 hours using the curriculum defined in Section R156-11a-704;
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam failures
After three failures of the NIC theory or practical examination, R156-11a-805(12) requires the apprentice and instructor to meet the Board, explain the failures, and provide a study plan.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Registration
Register before training, identify the licensed instructor supervisor, pay the registration fee, complete training within two years after approval, and notify the Division within 30 days of a supervisor change.
School credit
The older rule states that school hours may not count toward its apprenticeship-hour requirement; the current statutory apprentice requirements remain controlling.
Supervision
The supervisor must hold an instructor license in the discipline and provide direct supervision. R156-11a-805 also requires Division approval of the instructor, no disciplinary action in the preceding three years, an Apprentice in Training sign, daily training/service records, and available nail technician texts.
Training
Complete an approved nail technology apprenticeship; 58-11a-306(3)(e) sets the statutory minimum at 300 hours.
Training schedule
R156-11a-805 limits training to 40 hours per week and five days per seven consecutive days and requires at least 10% of technical training before public services.
Conditional endorsement pending audit, investigation, or inspection

At least one of the following alternatives:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Final decision
The conditional license remains subject to the Division's decision after the review is completed.
Review
The application is selected for audit, under investigation, or pending inspection under R156-1-308f.
Underlying pathway
Satisfy the applicable current initial, endorsement, or reinstatement conditions of the ordinary nail technology license; conditional status does not independently waive them.
Conditional initial licensure pending audit, investigation, or inspection

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Final decision
The conditional license remains subject to the Division's decision after the review is completed.
Review
The application is selected for audit, under investigation, or pending inspection under R156-1-308f.
Underlying pathway
Satisfy the applicable current initial, endorsement, or reinstatement conditions of the ordinary nail technology license; conditional status does not independently waive them.
Conditional reinstatement with new license qualifications pending review

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Final decision
The conditional license remains subject to the Division's decision after the review is completed.
Review
The application is selected for audit, under investigation, or pending inspection under R156-1-308f.
Underlying pathway
Satisfy the applicable current initial, endorsement, or reinstatement conditions of the ordinary nail technology license; conditional status does not independently waive them.
Conditional renewal pending audit, investigation, or inspection
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Renewal
Meet renewal qualifications and pay the fee; issuance remains conditional until review is completed under R156-1-308f.
Review
Ordinary renewal application is selected for audit, under investigation, or pending inspection.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement after completion of additional education or experience

At least one of the following alternatives:

Division discretion
R156-1-302(4) permits the Division to require one or more of the profession's examinations. The anyOf node identifies the registered examinations that may be required; whether either or both must be taken, or none, depends on the Division's decision for this applicant.
Documentation
Pay the fee and provide satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications, and good standing under 58-1-302(5).
Eligibility
Previously licensed elsewhere without satisfying 58-1-302(2) or (3); complete additional education or experience that the Division determines will establish substantial equivalency under 58-1-302(6)(a)(ii).
Other jurisdiction exams
Examinations or examination scores used to establish education, competency, or prior licensure in another jurisdiction are applicant evidence; another jurisdiction's own examination is not a Utah examination leaf.
Prior licensure
An applicant with the required licensed-practice experience need not have the other license currently active under R156-1-302(2).
Qualification review
The Division may refuse endorsement for reasonable cause to doubt qualifications or for previous or pending disciplinary action under 58-1-302(4).
Discretionary endorsement based on licensed experience and competency

At least one of the following alternatives:

Division discretion
R156-1-302(4) permits the Division to require one or more of the profession's examinations. The anyOf node identifies the registered examinations that may be required; whether either or both must be taken, or none, depends on the Division's decision for this applicant.
Documentation
Pay the fee and provide satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications, and good standing under 58-1-302(5).
Eligibility
Prior licensure in a United States or foreign jurisdiction, at least one year of licensed practice, and a Division finding of competency based on education, credentialing examination, experience, and skills under 58-1-302(3)(a)(i).
Other jurisdiction exams
Examinations or examination scores used to establish education, competency, or prior licensure in another jurisdiction are applicant evidence; another jurisdiction's own examination is not a Utah examination leaf.
Prior licensure
An applicant with the required licensed-practice experience need not have the other license currently active under R156-1-302(2).
Qualification review
The Division may refuse endorsement for reasonable cause to doubt qualifications or for previous or pending disciplinary action under 58-1-302(4).
Discretionary endorsement based on equivalent original licensing requirements

At least one of the following alternatives:

Division discretion
R156-1-302(4) permits the Division to require one or more of the profession's examinations. The anyOf node identifies the registered examinations that may be required; whether either or both must be taken, or none, depends on the Division's decision for this applicant.
Documentation
Pay the fee and provide satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications, and good standing under 58-1-302(5).
Eligibility
Prior licensure whose requirements when issued were substantially similar to current Utah requirements under 58-1-302(3)(a)(ii).
Other jurisdiction exams
Examinations or examination scores used to establish education, competency, or prior licensure in another jurisdiction are applicant evidence; another jurisdiction's own examination is not a Utah examination leaf.
Prior licensure
An applicant with the required licensed-practice experience need not have the other license currently active under R156-1-302(2).
Qualification review
The Division may refuse endorsement for reasonable cause to doubt qualifications or for previous or pending disciplinary action under 58-1-302(4).
Endorsement following individualized evaluation of another jurisdiction qualifications

At least one of the following alternatives:

Division discretion
R156-1-302(4) permits the Division to require one or more of the profession's examinations. The anyOf node identifies the registered examinations that may be required; whether either or both must be taken, or none, depends on the Division's decision for this applicant.
Documentation
Pay the fee and provide satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications, and good standing under 58-1-302(5).
Eligibility
Previously licensed elsewhere without satisfying 58-1-302(2) or (3); the Division evaluates and determines eligibility through substantially similar education, credentialing examination, or experience under 58-1-302(6)(a)(i).
Other jurisdiction exams
Examinations or examination scores used to establish education, competency, or prior licensure in another jurisdiction are applicant evidence; another jurisdiction's own examination is not a Utah examination leaf.
Prior licensure
An applicant with the required licensed-practice experience need not have the other license currently active under R156-1-302(2).
Qualification review
The Division may refuse endorsement for reasonable cause to doubt qualifications or for previous or pending disciplinary action under 58-1-302(4).
Discretionary endorsement based on equivalent education and experience without prior licensure

At least one of the following alternatives:

Division discretion
R156-1-302(4) permits the Division to require one or more of the profession's examinations. The anyOf node identifies the registered examinations that may be required; whether either or both must be taken, or none, depends on the Division's decision for this applicant.
Documentation
Pay the fee and provide satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications, and good standing under 58-1-302(5).
Eligibility
No prior license; education or experience in another jurisdiction and substantially similar education, credentialing examination, and experience under 58-1-302(3)(b).
Other jurisdiction exams
Examinations or examination scores used to establish education, competency, or prior licensure in another jurisdiction are applicant evidence; another jurisdiction's own examination is not a Utah examination leaf.
Prior licensure
An applicant with the required licensed-practice experience need not have the other license currently active under R156-1-302(2).
Qualification review
The Division may refuse endorsement for reasonable cause to doubt qualifications or for previous or pending disciplinary action under 58-1-302(4).
Endorsement based on similar United States license and experience

At least one of the following alternatives:

Division discretion
R156-1-302(4) permits the Division to require one or more of the profession's examinations. The anyOf node identifies the registered examinations that may be required; whether either or both must be taken, or none, depends on the Division's decision for this applicant.
Documentation
Pay the fee and provide satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications, and good standing under 58-1-302(5).
Eligibility
A license from a United States state, district, or territory with a similar practice scope, at least one year of practice under it, and good standing under 58-1-302(2).
Other jurisdiction exams
Examinations or examination scores used to establish education, competency, or prior licensure in another jurisdiction are applicant evidence; another jurisdiction's own examination is not a Utah examination leaf.
Prior licensure
An applicant with the required licensed-practice experience need not have the other license currently active under R156-1-302(2).
Qualification review
The Division may refuse endorsement for reasonable cause to doubt qualifications or for previous or pending disciplinary action under 58-1-302(4).
Relicensure after good standing surrender with qualifying continuous practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Provide the applicable reinstatement/renewal application, renewal qualifications and required fees.
Eligibility
License was active and in good standing when surrendered; R156-1-308k(1) applies the general reinstatement procedures.
Time or practice
Apply the timing and continuous-practice conditions of the cited reinstatement provision, and the surrender agreement.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure after good standing surrender when new license requirements apply

All of the following:

Agreement
Any specific surrender agreement also governs restoration of the surrendered rights.
Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Eligibility
Good-standing surrender; the general reinstatement cross-reference now requires new-license qualifications because neither an applicable reinstatement interval nor continuous-practice exception applies.
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Relicensure after good standing surrender between two and five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Provide the applicable reinstatement/renewal application, renewal qualifications and required fees.
Eligibility
License was active and in good standing when surrendered; R156-1-308k(1) applies the general reinstatement procedures.
Time or practice
Apply the timing and continuous-practice conditions of the cited reinstatement provision, and the surrender agreement.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure after good standing surrender within the reinstatement interval
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Provide the applicable reinstatement/renewal application, renewal qualifications and required fees.
Eligibility
License was active and in good standing when surrendered; R156-1-308k(1) applies the general reinstatement procedures.
Time or practice
Apply the timing and continuous-practice conditions of the cited reinstatement provision, and the surrender agreement.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal or reactivation after qualifying military service
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Provide the official activation/deployment and discharge orders and meet renewal requirements other than continuing education or training.
Eligibility
A qualifying active-duty or deployment period extends the license under 71A-8-103(2)-(3).
Exclusions
The military provision excludes annual training, in-state active National Guard or reserve orders, and orders that do not require relocation outside Utah.
Fees
Renewal is at no cost under 71A-8-103(4).
Timing
Request renewal within 90 days after termination of activation or deployment orders.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement from 31 days through two years after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Submit a completed renewal form showing compliance with renewal requirements.
Eligibility
The license was active and in good standing when it expired. From 31 days through two years after expiration.
Fees
Renewal fee and reinstatement fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after continuous federal employment or licensed practice elsewhere
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Submit reinstatement application, current renewal and reinstatement fees, and evidence of renewal qualifications.
Eligibility
Continuously active in the profession in full-time United States government employment or under licensure elsewhere in the United States.
Exam waiver
58-1-308(6)(b) expressly provides reinstatement without taking an examination.
Timing
Apply within six months after reestablishing Utah domicile or terminating full-time government service.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after more than five years without qualifying continuous practice

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Current qualifications
Meet the current requirements for a new nail technology license, including qualifying education or apprenticeship.
Eligibility
License expired more than five years ago; the two-to-five-year waiver and continuous-practice exception do not apply.
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Reinstatement between two and five years after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Submit the reinstatement application and evidence of renewal qualifications and pay renewal/reinstatement fees.
Exam waiver
R156-11a-308 expressly waives the R156-11a-302a examinations for this interval.
Lower ranked form
The DOPL form v.20250527 has a broader demand despite that waiver: NOTICE: If you fail to reinstate your license within two years of the expiration date of your license, you must submit a new application, meet current requirements for licensure, and pay the fees specified in subsection R156-1-308g (3). Contact DOPL for assistance if reinstating after two years of expiration.
Timing
Apply between two and five years after expiration under R156-11a-308.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement within 30 days after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Submit a completed renewal form showing compliance with renewal requirements.
Eligibility
The license was active and in good standing when it expired. Within 30 days after expiration.
Fees
Renewal fee and late fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Ordinary renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Cycle
The DOPL renewal page states September 30 of odd years for these licenses.
Renewal
Renew by the expiration date, pay the renewal fee, and document compliance with renewal qualifications. Chapter 58-11a and the complete renewal procedures in R156-1-308c govern renewal; R156-11a-302a governs initial examinations.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by examination after school education

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Education
Graduate from a licensed or recognized school with at least 300 instructional hours or equivalent credit hours covering manicures, pedicures, and artificial nails under 58-11a-302.20(3)(a).
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Foreign education
R156-11a-302b permits a listed evaluator or other evidence satisfactory to the Division in collaboration with the Board to demonstrate equivalent foreign schooling.
Licensure by examination with school and licensed practice credit

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Education
Graduate from a recognized school with fewer than 300 hours and count licensed nail technician practice outside Utah toward the 300 total hours under 58-11a-302.20(4).
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.

Temporary license — nail technology

Temporary individual nail technology authorization under Utah Code 58-1-303, including pending-examination, visiting practitioner, emergency, shortage, and monitored-practice pathways.

Licensing authority: Utah Division of Professional Licensing · Application information

Temporary authorization for emergency
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Division discretion
The Division, in collaboration with the Board, must find the statutory justification. The regular-license application and its examinations, if pursued, are separate from this temporary issuance.
Prior license
Other-state license was obtained under requirements equal to or greater than Utah requirements at that time.
Purpose
An emergency or governmental action materially threatens public health, safety, or welfare if authorization is not issued.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary authorization for monitored practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Division discretion
The Division, in collaboration with the Board, must find the statutory justification. The regular-license application and its examinations, if pursued, are separate from this temporary issuance.
Prior license
Other-state license was obtained under requirements equal to or greater than Utah requirements at that time.
Purpose
The Division needs to observe monitored or supervised practice before deciding a regular-license application.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary issuance while awaiting examinations

All of the following:

Application
Submit the Division-approved application, pay the applicable fee, and document school- or supervisor-certified minimum service counts and the qualifying education or apprenticeship under 58-11a-302(1).
Eligibility
All nail technology license requirements have been met except examination passage.
Equivalent examinations
R156-11a-302a(3) accepts substantially equivalent theory, practical, or instructor examinations approved by a licensing authority of any jurisdiction. Unnamed alternatives and examinations belonging to another jurisdiction remain applicant conditions.
Exam passing score
R156-11a-302a(1) requires a passing score of at least 70% as determined by the examination provider.
Exam score timing
Pass within one year before application, unless the Division approves another reasonable timeframe after reviewing extenuating circumstances.
Next exam
Take the next available examination; failure automatically expires the temporary license when official results are released.
Repeat limit
No more than three consecutive temporary issuances within three years following the first issuance under 58-1-303(2).
Temporary authorization for service shortage
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Division discretion
The Division, in collaboration with the Board, must find the statutory justification. The regular-license application and its examinations, if pursued, are separate from this temporary issuance.
Prior license
Other-state license was obtained under requirements equal to or greater than Utah requirements at that time.
Purpose
A shortage of necessary licensed services materially threatens public health, safety, or welfare.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary visiting practitioner authorization
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Division discretion
Issuance under 58-1-303(1)(b) is discretionary; the outside license is an applicant qualification.
Eligibility
Licensed in another state or country and temporarily in Utah to teach or assist a licensed Utah practitioner.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

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