In Illinois, manicurists, also known as nail technicians, must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Nail technicians must meet the following licensing requirements:

  • be at least 16 year of age;
  • graduate from a licensed nail technology school or licensed cosmetology school, having completed a program of 350 hours extending over a period of between 8 weeks and two consecutive years;
  • pass an exam; and
  • pay a fee.

Licenses are issued for two years. Ten hours of continuing education are required during the term of the license.

For more information, contact:

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor, Springfield, IL 62786
Phone: 217.785.0800, Fax: 217.782.7645