Psychiatric Technician License in California
Quick Answer
California manicurist licensure requires completing an approved 400-hour nail care course, passing the PSI exam, and paying a $110 initial fee with $50 biennial renewals.
- Education Required
- 400 hours
- Exam
- PSI Manicurist Examination
- Total Cost
- $160 (est.)
- Timeline
- 3-6 months
- Renewal
- Every Every 2 years
Requirements
Psychiatric Technician license in California
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $110
- Renewal Fee
- $50
- Total Estimated Cost
- $160
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Psychiatric Technician license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.
Psychiatric Technician Salary in California
Entry Level
$33,630
Median
$35,000
Experienced
$44,610
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Psychiatric Technician in California.
- 1
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$110.
- 2
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 3-6 months.
Psychiatric Technician Licensing in California: What to Know
California licenses manicurists through the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology under the Department of Consumer Affairs. The initial fee of $110 covers both examination and licensing costs, with biennial renewal at $50. Applicants must be at least 17 years old, have completed the 10th grade, and have completed a 400-hour nail care course from a board-approved school. California uses the term 'manicurist' rather than 'nail technician,' and the PSI exam is offered Monday through Friday at various locations statewide. California has particularly strict health and safety regulations for nail salons, including comprehensive ventilation requirements to protect workers from chemical fumes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Psychiatric Technician license cost in California?
- The estimated total cost is $160, including application fees, and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Psychiatric Technician license in California?
- The process typically takes 3-6 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Psychiatric Technician license in California?
- You need to pass the PSI Manicurist Examination. N/A
Considering another state?
Compare Psychiatric Technician requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.