New York’s nail salon workers bring skill, care, and artistry to clients every day, but entering and advancing in the industry comes with real challenges.
NYCOSH’s New York State Certified Nail Salon Worker School provides workers with the education and test prep required to become a licensed manicurist in New York State. Our school also helps workers build healthier careers, gain confidence to speak up on the job, and secure their permanent licenses. With accessible classes offered in Spanish and, through partner organizations, in Nepali and Vietnamese, we support students from their very first licensing steps all the way through exam preparation and beyond.
NYCOSH operates the only certified and free Nail Salon Worker School in New York. Our program is designed to remove barriers, support workers’ rights, and help students earn the credentials needed to work safely and legally in nail salons across the state. Whether you’re just getting started or preparing for your permanent license, our courses guide you every step of the way.
This one-day course is the first step for many workers. Students learn about the nail industry and receive personal assistance registering with the New York State Department of State to obtain the Nail Specialty Trainee License, the credential required to legally begin work as a trainee in a nail salon.
Our team walks participants through the application process, answers questions, and helps ensure every student leaves with a clear path forward.
Classes are primarily held on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. The six-week Nail Specialty Trainee Course meets on either Monday or Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
After completing the Nail Specialty Trainee Course, students can join our one-day exam review sessions to refresh their knowledge before taking the official Department of State exams. These sessions reinforce key concepts and build confidence so students walk into testing fully prepared.
For workers 18 and older who hold their Trainee License and have worked in a nail salon for at least one year, this course is the next major milestone toward obtaining a Permanent License.
Spanning 42 hours of training across six weeks, far exceeding the State’s requirement of 27 hours, this course prepares students for both NYCOSH’s final exam and the official written and practical exams offered by the Department of State.
Our instructors use a participatory, hands-on teaching style that keeps students engaged and supported. Training sessions include:
NYCOSH has extensive experience teaching students with limited literacy, and our program is designed to meet workers where they are. With more than 1,200 graduates, we are proud to help students build skills, leadership, and long-term success in the nail salon industry.
Beyond training, NYCOSH provides licensing and exam assistance to students who actively participate in our programs and in organizing efforts to improve conditions for nail salon workers across New York.
Students interested in organizing can learn more about improving industry standards through collective action.
Space is limited. If you’re ready to take the next step toward licensure or want more details about upcoming sessions, fill out the form. Our team will follow up with registration information and next steps.