To become a registered manicurist in WV you will first need to complete at least 400 hours of training at one of the states nail technician schools. You can do classes evening and weekends if need be. When choosing a place to study make sure it is approved by the state board!
Topics you will learn about include:
- anatomy
- nail diseases
- manicures and pedicures
- care and use of instruments
- nail art and design
- state law
- and more…
There will also be lots of hands-on practice as your progress in the course.
To get in to a program you’ll need to have graduated from high school, and be 18 years old or more and not have TB.
The Exams
After graduating from your training you’ll need to then pass three licensing exams.
The first test will be written and cover the topics you’ve gone over in school. You’ll need to have a good working knowledge of topics like safety, chemistry of salon products, how to consult with clients and so on.
The second test is on West Virginia laws and regulations relating to cosmetology. This is a short exam you will need only 30 minutes to finish.
The third and longest exam is a practical that will take three hours. Again it will cover your ability to perform tasks you’ve learned in classes and through servicing clients. You will need to bring your own supplies for this test.
When you’ve passed the exams with a minimum score of 70% you’ll need to submit various documents to the cosmetology board to get your license. However, if you are from another state and are moving to West Virginia to work as a nail tech you’ll need to show proof of work experience, identification and training if you haven’t attended a WV school.
Renewal
Renewing your license is an annual affair in West Virginia. Many states do not require continuing education credits to remain current but WV does require four hours of refresher courses and retraining every year.
Job prospects are good in the state so it shouldn’t be difficult to get employed. To get an idea of current salaries you can also do a work search on line using the state’s search portal.
Some Nail Technician Schools in West Virginia
| Name | Address | Cost | Other Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art & Science Institute | 45 Cory Road, Fairmont 26554 | $4,500 all inclusive | Cosmetology, Aesthetics, Massage |
| Charleston School of Beauty | 210 Capitol Street, Charleston, 25301 | Tuition: $2,000 Registration Fee: $100 Kit: $1,000 Total: $3,100 | Aesthetics, Barbering, Cosmetology |
| The International Beauty School | 201 West King Str. Martinsburg 25401 | Application fee: $100 Tuition, Books, and Fees: $3,900 | Esthetics, Cosmetology, Hair Stylist |
| Clarksburg Beauty Academy | 120 South 3rd Street, Clarksburg, 26301 | Unknown | Cosmetology, Massage Therapy |
| Huntington School of Beauty Culture | 5636 Pinecrest Drive, Huntington, 25705 | Tuition: $1,800 Registration fee: $100 Books: $530 Total: $2,430 | Esthetics, Hair Styling, Cosmetology |
| Morgantown Beauty College | 276 Walnut Street, Morgantown, 26505 | Tuition: $3,295 Application: $100 Books & Fees: $555 Enrollment Fee: $150 Total: $4,100 | Cosmetology, Esthetics, Massage Therapy, Hair Styling |
Any schools missing? Please use our contact form to let us know.
School Websites
charlestonschoolofbeautywv.com