Manicurists perform a variety of hand and feet grooming procedures such as manicures, pedicures, nail repairs, nail wraps, massages, application of extensions, and nail art. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job growth for manicurists is expected to grow 10% from 2018 to 2028, faster than average for all occupations. The median pay was $25,770 annually in 2019.
The first step to becoming a licensed nail technician in California is to complete a state-approved manicuring program comprising of at least 400 clock hours of theory and operational instruction to prepare for the licensure exam administered by the California State Board of Cosmetology. Nail technician schools in Los Angeles provide various schedules for full-time and part-time enrollment to fulfill the educational preparation needed to take the state exam. The exam includes a written and practical demonstration to assess your ability to operate within the guidelines of the Cosmetology Act Business and Professions Code. You must also be at least 17 years of age, have completed the 10th grade in public school or equivalent, committed no act or crimes listed as grounds for denial of licensure, and have a social security number or TAX ID number.
Neihule Academy Of Beauty
The Nail Technology Program at Neihule Academy of Beauty provides real-world experience and training for students to become confident professionals in the beauty industry. Apart from the classroom coursework, students will get the opportunity to practice the trade a spa/salon setting where they will work with clients. The curriculum will cover manicures, pedicures, sculpting, nail art, and much more.
Program overview:
Nail Technology
Duration: 20 weeks
Contact hours: 400
Prerequisites:
- Schedule an interview and tour
- Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or residency
- Provide a copy of government-issued ID and social security card
- Must be able to speak, read, and write English
Program cost:
The cost of the program and expenses is $5,690. Neihule offers easy financing with monthly payment plans with zero interest.
Website: https://www.neihuleacademy.com/
Address: 305 East 8th Street, Los Angeles, CA
Phone: (213) 395-0947
Palace Beauty College
The Manicurist Program at Palace Beauty College seeks to equip students with the knowledge of laws and rules that govern California Cosmetology establishment’s practices. The curriculum, comprising of 400 clock hours, covers theory relating to manicuring including anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and theory relative to practical procedures. Students will learn how to recognize skin conditions and disorders, analyze hands and feet before performing services, and use safety precautions in manicuring. Students must complete the Theory and Operations with an average grade of C or better to graduate from the program and meet the requirements outlined by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Full-time, part-time day, and evening schedules are available.
Program overview:
Manicurist
Duration: 20 weeks
Contact hours: 400
Prerequisites:
- Sign an Enrollment Agreement
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Applicants lacking a high school diploma must be at least 18 years old, must have completed the tenth grade, and must pass an Ability to Benefit exam before admission
- Must be proficient in the English Language as demonstrated by the admission exam
Program cost:
The cost of tuition and fees is $2,720. It includes registration fee, application fee, books, kit, and supplies.
Website: http://www.palacebeautycollege.com/
Phone: (323) 731-2075
Email: admissions@palacebeautycollege.com
American Beauty College
The nail care program at American Beauty College covers all phases of manicuring and pedicuring as mandated by the California State of Barbering and Cosmetology Bureau. The 400-hour curriculum prepares students for entry-level positions in nail care and to pass the state licensing exam. A nail care license is required to operate as a manicurist in California. Students who successfully complete the program will understand the laws and rules that govern cosmetology establishments in California, general theory relating to manicuring, and business management techniques common to manicurists. They will be able to use equipment relative to manicuring, pedicuring, and artificial nails, recognize various skin conditions and disorders, use practical knowledge in nail care, and adhere to safety standards.
Program overview:
Manicuring Course
Duration: 5 months
Contact hours: 400
Prerequisites:
- Must provide a copy of high school diploma or equivalent
- Provide a copy of social security card and driver’s license or state ID, birth certificate, and proof of income
- Must be a California resident
- Must demonstrate English proficiency
Program cost:
The total of the program is $4,107.50. It includes tuition, the non-refundable registration fee, kit and supplies, and other fees.
Website: https://americanbeautycollege.edu/
Address: 646 S. Sunset Ave, West Covina, Los Angeles County, CA 91790
Phone: (626) 472-7402
Email: enroll@americanbeautycollege.com
Flair Beauty College
Flair Beauty College’s Manicuring curriculum is nationally-accredited and also approved by the state of California. The curriculum complies with state standards covering 400 hours of nail care training. Students will participate in theory and operational coursework, using quality products and equipment to develop confidence to practice after passing the state exam. Through the school’s partnership with OPI products, students will have a unique opportunity to work with the best quality products throughout the program. There will be an emphasis on hand and foot care services and nail enhancement techniques. Graduates will be prepared to take the State Board of Barbering & Cosmetology Licensing Exam for employment as a licensed manicurist in salons, spas, and retail sectors.
Program overview:
Manicuring Course
Duration: 11 to 15 weeks
Contact hours: 400
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Must have a high school diploma (or transcript showing graduation date) or GED
- Submit a completed application and non-refundable application fee of $60
- Submit the non-refundable registration fee of $40
- Attend a personal, on-campus interview
- Take and pass the entrance test with an average grade of 70%. The cost of the test is $30
- Sign the Enrollment Agreement
Program cost:
The cost of tuition is $7,605. It includes tuition, the non-refundable registration fee, application fee, books, admission exam, uniform, and kit and supplies. The program is not eligible for financial aid but in-house financing is available for all students.
Website: https://flairbeautycollege.com/
Address: 23754 Valencia Blvd. Valencia, CA 91355
Phone: (661) 799-4995
FAX: (661) 799-4994
Email: flairbeautycollege@flairbeautycollege.com
Santa Monica College
Santa Monica College prepares adults for employment in a spa as a manicurist through the 400-hour manicurist course. Students will receive real-world training in hand and foot treatments, nail designs, and nail repairs. The coursework includes preparation for the written and practical parts of the California State Board of Cosmetology licensing examination for manicurists. Areas of study include manicures, pedicures, nail tips, acrylics, gel nails, and 3D nail art. Graduates will receive a Department Certificate to demonstrate eligibility to take the state exam. The program is offered in a full-time and part-time schedule.
Program overview:
Manicuring Course
Duration: one semester
Contact hours: 400
Units: 9
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Submit an application to SMC and get an SMC ID number
- Complete the placement process
- Submit high school transcript to the SMA Admissions Office
Program cost:
Tuition costs $46 per unit for California residents. Expenses for books, fees, and supplies must be added to the cost.
Website: https://www.smc.edu/
Address: 1900 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Phone: 310-434-4000
Western Barber Institute
Western Barber Institute prepares nail technology students for a career as a nail technician, product demonstrator, or salon owner. The course delivers 400 clock hours of theory and technical instruction in water and oil manicuring and pedicuring, application of acrylic, liquid and powder nails, nail repair, advanced nail technology, professionalism and business ethics, and personal grooming. Two class schedules are available. The day class meets from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm for 4 months. The evening class meets Monday through Thursday from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm and on Saturday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm for 4 months.
Program overview:
Nail Technology
Duration: 20-25 weeks
Contact hours: 400
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Provide a copy of high school diploma, GED, high school transcript or California State Proficiency Test
- Applicants without a high school diploma may be admitted under the institution’s Ability to Benefit procedures
- Pay the registration fee of $100
Program cost:
The program costs $4,712.50. It includes tuition, equipment, books, registration fee, and tax.
Website: https://wbi.edu/
Address: 18442 Sherman Way, Reseda, CA 91335
Phone: (818) 578-6344
Beyond Cosmo
The manicuring course at Beyond Cosmo helps students learn the phases of artificial nails, product chemistry for safety and patron protection, and professional ethics in nail care. The curriculum covers 400 clock hours, according to California’s requirements, broken down into the art and science of manicuring. Students will learn how to beautify the hands through manicuring, nail wrapping, application of artificial nails, and massaging. Additional training in professional ethics, salesmanship, record keeping, desk and reception, and payroll deductions will give students the skills to manage a salon if they choose to.
Program overview:
Manicuring
Duration: 3 to 5 months
Contact hours: 400
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Provide a copy of high school diploma, GED, State Proficiency Test, or equivalent
- Applicants with a high school diploma but under 18 years must obtain parental consent
- Applicants with no equivalent to a high school diploma may be admitted under the school’s Ability to Benefit procedures
- Must be proficient in the English language
Program cost:
The program costs $5,595. It includes tuition, kit, books, and registration fee.
Website: https://www.beyondcosmo.com/
Address: 13640 Imperial Highway, Suite 6,7,8, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
Phone: 562.404.6193
Email: info@beyondcosmo.com
Universal College of Beauty Inglewood
Students enrolled in the manicurist program at Universal College of Beauty will be prepared by experts for a career as a manicurist. The program will cover 400 clock hours of theory and practical operations in the practices of a manicurist/pedicurist. Students will learn how to use the proper implements for manicuring and pedicuring, use safety precautions in the application of nails, manicuring, and pedicuring, and recognize skin conditions, diseases and disorders. Graduates will be prepared to take the state licensing exam.
Program overview:
Manicuring
Duration: 4 months
Contact hours: 400
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Provide a copy of high school diploma, GED, State Proficiency Test, or equivalent
- Must pass the Scholastic Level Exam with a minimum score of 18 or higher
- Non-high school graduates must be at least 18 years old and have completed at least the 10th grade or equivalent
Program cost:
Financial aid is available for eligible students.
Website: https://www.universalcollegeofbeauty.com/
Address: 3419 W. 43rd Place, Los Angeles, CA 90008
Phone: 323-298-0045
International College of Beauty Arts & Sciences
The International College of Beauty, Arts & Sciences manicuring course prepares students with skills and knowledge to work as a manicurist or salon manager/owner. The curriculum covers 600 clock hours of advanced spa manicuring and pedicure and health, safety and sanitation regulations. Skills include nail repairs, nail enhancements, water/oil manicure techniques, and massage of hands, arms, feet, and ankles. Students will learn from experienced faculty as well as industry experts who will share their knowledge and techniques with students. The 600-hour program qualifies students to receive financial aid. Part-time and full-time schedules are available.
Program overview:
Manicuring
Duration: 19 weeks
Contact hours: 600
Prerequisites:
- Attend an initial personal interview to determine the prospect of success in the program
- Complete financial arrangements before admissions
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Attend a campus tour before enrolling
- Pay the non-refundable application fee of $100
- Must provide proof of age – 18 years or older
- Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
- High school graduates who are at least 17 years must present a valid social security card and government-issued ID or driver’s license
- Complete an Enrollment Agreement
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $11,262.55 if completed within the normal time. Additional costs for books, fees, uniform, and supplies are not included. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.
Website: https://www.icbas.edu/
Address: 5225 W San Fernando Rd, Los Angeles, California 90039
Phone: 818-280-4898
West Valley Occupational Center
The manicuring program at West Valley comprises of two courses delivered in a period of 6 months. The state-approved program prepares students for a license as a manicurist and employment in the beauty industry. Classes meet Monday through Friday from 8:15 am to 2:30 pm. Due to the high demand of the program, enrollment will be limited. Applicants must fulfill the requirements and submit documents to be considered for admission. Candidates are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Program overview:
Manicuring I & II
Duration: 6 months
Contact hours: 400
Prerequisites:
- Have a valid government-issued photo ID – driver’s license, State ID, passport or military ID
- A signed, physical social security card
- A high school diploma or equivalent or completion of 10th grade with official transcripts or score a grade of 9.0 on the Reading Assessment
- Submit a signed copy of information sheet with an explanation of costs and responsibilities
Program cost:
Tuition is free. Materials cost $600.
Website: https://www.wvoc.net
Address: 6200 Winnetka Ave, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Phone: (213) 241-4799
How Long Does It Take to Become a Manicurist In Los Angeles?
Nail Technicians must complete at least 400 hours of theory and practical instruction in preparation for licensure and practice. Graduates must take and pass a written exam to be eligible for a license to practice. Nail technician programs in Los Angeles may be completed in 5 months of full-time attendance and 8 months of part-time attendance.
How Much Does a Manicurist Make in Los Angeles?
Nail technicians work in salons and spas. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, manicurists have entry-level wages of $16.40 per hour. Experienced nail technicians employed in the top salons in Los Angeles earn an average hourly wage of $28.55. Nail Technicians who work for themselves can earn as much as $38.85 per hour. .
How Much Does Nail Technician School Cost in Los Angeles?
A 400-hour pre-licensure nail technician program can cost an average of $5,650 at private institutions. The nail technician programs offered at community colleges can cost approximately $2,200 for California residents. The cost covers the $46 per unit enrollment fee plus the cost of books, kit and supplies. West Valley Occupational Center offers a free nail technician program for eligible persons.
Can I Get a Manicurist License Online in Los Angeles?
You may submit your application for initial licensure and apply to take the test, administered by PSI, online.
What Are the Requirements to Be a Manicurist in Los Angeles?
Manicurists are licensed and regulated in California by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. It is the Board’s responsibility to uphold nail technicians’ adherence to State law and infection control standards.
Manicure services may be only legally performed by State-licensed manicurists in State-licensed salons.
Manicurists in California are not permitted to:
- Wax or tweeze ayebrows
- Tint or dye eyelashes or eyebrows
- Use razor-edged or cheese grater-type tools to remove calluses
- Use products that contain Methyl Methacrylate monomer (MMA)
As of January 1, 2022, manicurists do not need to take a practical exam as part of the exam process. The written exam is the only exam needed for licensure. Candidates for examination will receive a PSI handbook from the Board once their application is approved. Candidates will then need to schedule the written exam at a PSI location of their choice.
The exam is available in English, Korean, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Simplified Chinese. Candidates who cannot read, speak, or write in English at a 10th grade-level, may request approval to use an interpreter if the exam is not available in their native language.
The manicurist exam takes 90 minutes to complete and covers 60 score questions and 10 pretest questions.
The Test Registration Form is available online at PSI’s website. You must create an account before paying and scheduling the exam.
A valid ID must be provided for admittance to the test. Examples of valid ID include:
- A current state-issued driver’s license
- An unexpired ID card
- A valid passport
- A permanent resident card
- A current U.S. military-issued ID card
All candidates will have their thumbprint taken during examination check-in. Purses, cellular phones, calculators, textbooks, food, electronic devices, personal pens or pencils, hats, smart devices, and headphones are some of the items not permitted in the testing room.
A computer-based test is available at some test sites. Your results will be printed and handed to you at the end of the computerized test.
The initial license fee is $110 for manicurists.