Find More Nail SchoolsHome to two of the top nail polishes on the market, Revlon and Maybelline,  New York is the place to be if you are a prospective nail technician!  Not only that, but it’s known as the fashion capital of the United States and puts you in a great location to learn everything beauty related to help you grow professionally in the field.

On average, New York nail technician programs will take you 250 hours to complete.  During that time you will learn a variety of services ranging from:

– Nail wraps
– Gel nails
– Nail art
– Manicuring/pedicuring
– Arm and leg massaging
– And more!

In addition, after completion of a program you will be equipped with the knowledge to successfully perform necessary business practices, retailing techniques and client consultations. These aspects of your training will help you prepare to manage or own your own salon one day, if you have aspirations to be independent!

There are a number of options for you to choose from, including the Academy of NYC-Paul Mitchell Partner School, Empire Beauty School and The Hair Design Institute!

Nail Technician Licensing Requirements in New York

Completing a New York nail technician program is unique in the fact that upon graduation  from the accredited program you will receive a temporary license.  This will allow you to seek employment in New York while preparing for the NYS State Board exam. By the time you take the official exam you can have real-world experience that can help build on your education.

To receive your permanent NYC Nail Technology license you must be at least 17 years of age and provide your school transcript showing you have completed the 250 necessary hours from an accredited program.   The State of New York  then requires you take and pass an examination that’s comprised of a practical and a written section. The practical portion includes timed task evaluations including, tip application, wrap application, pedicures and manicures.  For a complete list of the times allowed for each task and the tasks evaluated, please see the Division of Licensing Services Nail Specialty Practical.

When choosing the right nail technician program, ask several schools about their student success rate. It’s important to know that your programs will adequately prepare you to step into your first job seamlessly. That’s another reason we always recommend talking to multiple schools instead of just one.

Employment Outlook for Nail Technicians in NY

Not only is New York going to provide you with any fashion and beauty trend imaginable, it also is a growing state for nail technicians.According to the BLS, in 2012 the state salary average was $19,3600, the second highest average in the country. This number is equivalent to $9.31 and doesn’t take into consideration tips. New York has the second highest employment level for nail techs, with close to 11,000 being licensed in the state, as well as the second highest concentration of jobs. White Plains and Nassau-Suffolk both make the list for metropolitan areas with the highest employment level. Newark and Nassau-Suffolk rank as top metropolitan areas with the highest concentration of jobs.

You can work in a variety of settings including salons, spas and even for fashion companies, models and runway shows.  According to Nail Magazine’s 2012-2013 industry statistics, the most common services are manicures, pedicures and gels.

Don’t wait to join the hustle and bustle of the New York nail technician scene. Contact the featured schools below to learn how you can become a professional in the beauty industry…