State Laws and Regulations
State Laws and Regulations tests your knowledge of how New Hampshire regulates nail technicians. The Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics, operating under RSA 313-A, licenses individuals and shops, sets training and examination requirements, and enforces sanitation and scope-of-practice rules.
Licensure and display
You must hold a valid New Hampshire nail technician license to perform nail services for compensation. A school diploma or completion certificate is not a license. Work only in a licensed shop, and display your license as the board requires. Keep your address current with the board. Practicing on an expired license or allowing an unlicensed person to perform services can lead to fines and license action.
Scope of practice
Nail technicians perform manicures, pedicures, nail extensions, polishing, and related cosmetic services. You may not diagnose or treat a disease, use prescription products, cut living tissue, or perform a medical pedicure. If a client has a suspicious infection, refer to a physician; do not attempt treatment.
Sanitation and inspections
The board adopts sanitation rules that cover hand washing, disinfection, single-use items, and foot spas. Board inspectors may enter a licensed shop during business hours to inspect. Keep records, SDS sheets, and disinfection logs available.
Worked example
A client asks you to trim a thickened, yellowed toenail and scrape off the fungus. Reasoning: that is diagnosis and treatment of a disease, which is outside your scope. You may decline the service and refer the client to a podiatrist or physician. Document the refusal and the reason.
Traps
Assuming a shop license covers every worker, using medical wording in advertising, performing services while unlicensed, and ignoring an inspection report are common mistakes. Requirements can change; verify hours, fees, and renewal rules on the board current site.