Indiana Manicurist (Nail Tech) Licensing & Career Guide
Thinking about becoming a licensed manicurist in Indiana?
This guide walks you through everything you need to know — from state licensing requirements and training hours to nail tech career options and earning potential. Whether you love detailed nail art, gel and acrylic services, or dream of building your own nail business, Summit Salon Academy Kokomo helps turn creativity into a career.
Indiana Manicurist License Requirements
To work as a licensed manicurist (nail tech) in Indiana, students must complete state-approved education and pass the required licensing exams through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency.
Indiana manicurist licensing requirements include:
Enrollment in an accredited manicurist program
Completion of required training hours
Passing the written and practical state board exams
Summit Salon Academy Kokomo provides approved education that prepares students for licensure and real-world nail services.
Required Manicurist Training Hours in Indiana
Indiana requires 600 training hours to qualify for a manicurist license.
At Summit Salon Academy Kokomo, we offer an accelerated manicurist (nail tech) program. Our accelerated nail tech program allows students to complete their training in as little as 4–5 months, depending on schedule and attendance.
Manicurist students receive hands-on training in:
Manicures and pedicures
Gel, acrylic, and enhancement services
Nail art and design techniques
Sanitation, safety, and infection control
Client consultation and professional conduct
Students perform services on real clients under the supervision of licensed professionals.
Program length may vary based on individual schedule, attendance, and state requirements. Completion time is not guaranteed.
Indiana Manicurist State Board Exams (What to Expect)
After completing your training hours, students must pass:
A written (theory) exam
A practical exam
Summit supports students with:
State board preparation and review sessions
Practice exams and hands-on demonstrations
Educator guidance throughout the entire process
Our goal is to help students feel confident — not overwhelmed — when exam day arrives.
License Transferability (Moving Out of State)
Manicurist license transferability varies by state. Some states may require:
Additional training hours
A written or practical exam
Proof of active licensure
Summit’s admissions team can help nail tech students understand transfer options before enrollment, especially for those planning to work outside Indiana.
Manicurist & Nail Tech Career Paths in Indiana
A manicurist license opens the door to a variety of nail-focused career options.
Common manicurist and nail tech career paths include:
Salon or spa manicurist
Independent nail tech
Nail art specialist
Pedicure or natural nail specialist
Mobile nail tech
Salon suite renter or business owner
Content creator or brand representative
Nail careers offer flexibility, creativity, and the opportunity to build a loyal client base.
Manicurist Salary Expectations in Indiana
Manicurist income varies based on experience, location, and services offered.
Factors that influence earning potential include:
Specialization and service pricing
Client retention and referrals
Retail and add-on services
Full-time vs. part-time work
Salary ranges vary and are not guaranteed. Summit Salon Academy does not promise specific income outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Most manicurist programs can be completed in several months, depending on scheduling and availability.
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Yes. Manicurist students work on dozens of real clients while completing their required hours.
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Yes. Nail tech students train with professional-grade tools and products used in the industry.
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For students who love hands-on creativity, detailed work, and client interaction, becoming a manicurist can be a rewarding and flexible career path.