Iowa requires a state-level nail technician license. The licensing authority is State Board of Cosmetology. The median salary is $30,171 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
Iowa requires a nail technician to hold a state license. Provide manicures, pedicures, nail enhancements, and nail art services. Licensing is administered by the State Board of Cosmetology.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | Nail technician program (200-600 hours depending on state) |
| Experience Details | Nail technician program (200-600 hours depending on state) |
Iowa requires passing the Iowa State Nail Technician Board Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $50.
| Exam Name | Iowa State Nail Technician Board Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | State Nail Technician Board Exam |
| Application Fee | $50 |
Getting licensed as a nail technician in Iowa takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $50 and renewal fees of $50 every 2 years. Continuing education of 4 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $50 |
| License Renewal | $50 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 4 hours |
Nail Technicians in Iowa earn a median salary of $30,171, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in Iowa |
| National average | $33,900 |
Yes — Iowa requires a state-level nail technician license. Provide manicures, pedicures, nail enhancements, and nail art services.
The required exam is the Iowa State Nail Technician Board Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $50.
The median annual salary for nail technicians in Iowa is $30,171. The national median is $33,900.
Iowa requires 4 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.