If you would like to become a manicure and pedicure professional, you must first complete nail technician training. Most nail technician courses consist of a series of classes covering manicure and pedicure techniques, health and safety, legal issues, and professional ethics. In addition to these classes, you must also complete a set number of lab hours, allowing you to practice the techniques you have learned about. Once you have satisfied all course requirements, you must pass a state certification exam to become a licensed nail professional.
Nail technician training courses are offered at cosmetology schools and technical institutes throughout the United States. Most programs require applicants to be at least 16 years of age. Many also require a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Each state requires nail professionals to complete a set number of training hours prior to their licensing exam. Thus, the duration of your nail technician training course will likely be dictated by the laws of the state in which you study. In general, however, most courses last between two months and one year.
Lectures are a major part of most nail technician training courses. During these classes, you will learn about many different nail techniques, such as manicuring and pedicuring, applying nail wraps and acrylic tips, and airbrushing. As health and safety are key to good nail technician practice, you will also learn to identify nail diseases and to properly sanitize all equipment. Finally, you will likely study state cosmetology laws and professional ethics. This component of your course can be particularly useful if you would like to establish your own nail salon.
In addition to attending lectures, you will also be required to complete lab hours, giving you the opportunity to practice the techniques you have learned about in class. Often these lab hours involve working with clients who visit your cosmetology school to receive nail treatments at low rates. Generally, you will be supervised by an instructor who will critique your work. In addition to allowing you to rehearse your technique, this part of the course gives you hands-on experience working with clients.
Once you have completed your nail technician training course, you must pass an exam before you can become a licensed nail professional. These exams are standardized for each state. Many states require technicians to renew their license every two or three years. This renewal may require the completion of continuing education hours.
