Nail Technician Licensing Exam Practice

Nail Technician Licensing Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

(Includes theory, anatomy, sanitation, safety, and practical application )

• What is the purpose of the nail matrix?

a) To protect the nail plate

b) To produce new nail cells

c) To control nail growth

d) To provide nail color

Rationale: The matrix contains cells that produce keratin, leading to nail

growth.

• Which of the following is a sign of a healthy nail?

a) Ridges and discoloration

b) Thin and flexible

c) Smooth, firm, and pink 1 / 4

d) Brittle and splitting

Rationale: Healthy nails are smooth, pinkish, and free of ridges or spots.

• What is the function of the cuticle?

a) Adds color to the nail

b) Protects the matrix from infection

c) Promotes faster nail growth

d) Holds polish in place

Rationale: The cuticle seals the space between the skin and the nail plate,

preventing bacteria entry.

• Which disinfectant is most commonly used in salons?

a) Alcohol 40%

b) EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant

c) Soap and water

d) Hand sanitizer

Rationale: EPA-registered disinfectants kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses and

meet salon sanitation standards.

• What should be done before disinfecting implements?

a) Wipe with alcohol

b) Dry with a towel

c) Wash with soap and warm water

d) Spray with sanitizer

Rationale: Implements must be cleaned of debris before disinfection for

the solution to work effectively. 2 / 4

6. The nail plate is made primarily of:

a) Collagen

b) Melanin

c) Keratin

d) Elastin

Rationale: Keratin is a tough protein forming nails, hair, and the skin’s

outer layer.

• What is onychophagy?

a) Nail fungus

b) Nail pitting

c) Nail biting

d) Nail thickening

Rationale: Onychophagy refers to the habit of biting nails, often causing

nail damage.

• What is the first step in any nail service?

a) Applying polish

b) Filing nails

c) Hand washing and sanitizing

d) Applying cuticle remover

Rationale: Sanitizing hands prevents contamination and ensures hygiene.

• What should a disinfectant never be mixed with?

a) Alcohol

b) Soap 3 / 4

c) Other chemicals

d) Water

Rationale: Mixing chemicals can create toxic fumes or reduce effectiveness.

• Which nail condition results from injury or disease of the nail matrix?

a) Hangnails

b) Bruised nail beds

c) Onychia

d) Leukonychia

Rationale: Onychia is inflammation of the matrix that can result from

infection or trauma.

• What part of the nail contains nerves and blood vessels?

a) Nail plate

b) Nail bed

c) Matrix

d) Cuticle

Rationale: The matrix is the living tissue beneath the nail that supplies

nutrients and nerves.

• What is the natural nail’s technical term?

a) Onyx

b) Matrix

c) Onyx

• / 4