Georgia Laws, Rules, Regulations, and Salon Business Practices
Who regulates you
Nail technicians, salons, and schools in Georgia fall under the Georgia Board of Cosmetology and Barbers within the Professional Licensing Boards Division of the Office of the Secretary of State. Know the license types (individual nail technician, salon, school, instructor), that licenses must be current and posted as the Board requires, and that practicing on an expired license or in an unlicensed salon is a violation. Booth renters must hold their own license, and the salon owner remains responsible for sanitation compliance in the facility.
What an inspector checks
License displayed; a covered, labeled container of EPA-registered disinfectant at each station; implements cleaned and disinfected between clients; single-use items discarded; clean towels and linens per client; closed containers for soiled items; hand-washing supplies; labeled product bottles; Safety Data Sheets on site; no eating, drinking, or smoking in the service area; adequate ventilation and lighting.
Scope of practice
You may perform manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements on healthy skin and nails. You may not diagnose or treat disease, use medical devices, or perform services on a client with a contagious or inflamed condition. Refuse, document, and refer.
Business practices
Keep a client record (services, products, reactions), obtain consent for photos, carry liability insurance, price services in writing, collect and remit sales tax, and understand the difference between booth rental and employment.
Trap watch: hour requirements, renewal dates, and continuing education rules change; verify current numbers in the Board's rules rather than a prep-class handout.
Rule of thumb: when a rule is unclear, choose the answer that protects the client's health and keeps a written record.