Want to Become a Nail Tech? Here’s How

Updated: April 2026

What Is a Nail Technician?

A聽nail technician is a licensed professional specializing in manicures, pedicures, nail art, and nail health care.

Getting Started: Basic requirements to become a Nail Tech

Have you ever considered a career as a licensed nail tech? If so, you’ll need to follow a few steps and meet the requirements set by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) before building the beauty career you’ve always dreamed of. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

To become a licensed nail tech in Texas you must be at least 17 years old and have obtained a high school diploma or GED.

Enroll in a Cosmetology or Nail Technician Program:

17吃瓜在线 offers an accredited cosmetology program for those looking to pursue a career as a nail tech. These programs are offered at all 17吃瓜在线 campuses including Dallas, San Antonio, and Houston. You can also research other state-approved cosmetology or nail technician schools in Dallas. The is a great resource to find a list of approved schools in your area. In Texas, you will need to complete 600 hours of training in a licensed nail technician program to acquire your license. Once your nail tech education is complete, you will need to prepare for the written and practical exams.

Pass the Written and Practical Exams:

Once you complete cosmetology training, you’ll need to pass the written and practical exams. The exams are administered by a third-party testing agency, PSI Services. Your school can assist you in scheduling your licensing exam once all required hours are complete.  If you’re anxious to get your career as a nail tech started you can a learn more about registering for exams on .

Receive a Certificate of Completion & Apply for Licensure:

You are a step closer to becoming a nail tech now that you’ve passed your exams. The next step is to apply for your nail technician license through the TDLR. You can do this online by visiting the TDLR website or submitting a paper application by mail. You will also need to pay the required application and licensing fees.

Maintain Your License:

Now that you are a licensed nail tech, you’ll want to maintain your license as you build a rewarding career. Your can renew your license through the TDLR site every two years. You will also need to take at least 8 hours of continuing education courses during each two year renewal period. To learn more about becoming a licensed nail tech reach out to our admissions department to see if 17吃瓜在线’s cosmetology program is right for you.

Hear From 17吃瓜在线 Experts聽

Mastering the classics is an important step toward a successful career. Take the : while trends come and go, this iconic look remains a staple in every high-end salon. For an aspiring nail tech, it鈥檚 a masterclass in precision and symmetry.

鈥淭he French manicure is an enduring style because it鈥檚 an incredibly versatile nail for all ages, and you can really make it your own,鈥� says Stanley Nolan, 17吃瓜在线 cosmetologist and beauty education specialist. 鈥淭he shape of the traditional French tip also elongates the nail which makes it universally flattering.鈥�

The has come a long way since its debut in the 1970s when Orly founder Jeff Pink created it. Today, it serves as a foundational skill for every student, continuing to evolve with new shapes, , and aesthetic flourishes. According to Lindsay Worthen, 17吃瓜在线 veteran cosmetologist and beauty educator, this adaptability is exactly what gives the style its professional longevity.

鈥淚 also appreciate that it evolves with different trends, so there are so many ways to breathe new life into the classic French manicure.鈥�

By mastering both the traditional technique and its modern variations, you ensure that your portfolio remains relevant as industry trends shift.

At 17吃瓜在线, we provide the hands-on training, professional mentorship, and business skills you need to turn your passion into a flourishing career.

Are you ready to build your future in the beauty industry? about our cosmetology program or at a campus near you today.