Question 1

Who is this course for?

Accepted Answer

Beauty professionals at any level — total beginners through experienced techs who want a real credential. The course is self-paced, online, and can be taken on any device.

Question 2

Do I need experience?

Accepted Answer

No. The Sunless Master Course starts at fundamentals and builds up. We cover skin science, equipment, application technique, color theory, and business basics.

Question 3

What equipment do I need?

Accepted Answer

A computer or phone for the course itself. To practice spray tanning, you'll eventually want a machine, solution, and a tent — we cover what to buy in the equipment chapter.

Question 4

How long does it take?

Accepted Answer

Most students finish in 4 to 8 hours of focused study. There's no deadline — lifetime access means you can take as long as you need.

Question 5

What score do I need to pass?

Accepted Answer

80% on each chapter quiz to unlock the next chapter, and 80% on the final exam to earn your certificate.

Question 6

What if I fail?

Accepted Answer

Retake. Chapter quizzes have unlimited retakes; the final exam allows retakes too. We want you to pass.

Question 7

Can I rewatch lessons?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Re-watch any lesson any time, and re-take any chapter quiz.

Question 8

What does the certificate look like?

Accepted Answer

A printable PDF with your name, the course name, the issue date, your unique Certification ID, and a QR code that links to your public verification page.

Question 9

How does verification work?

Accepted Answer

Anyone can go to nstpa.com/verify, enter your Certification ID or scan your QR code, and confirm your credential is active.

Question 10

Does my certificate expire?

Accepted Answer

It stays active unless revoked or replaced by a re-issue. If NSTPA introduces a major curriculum update, you can recertify if you want the latest credential.

Question 11

Can I certify my whole team?

Accepted Answer

Yes — the Salon Plan certifies up to five technicians on a single $250 purchase. Each technician earns their own unique NSTPA Certification ID and public verification page.

Question 12

Is this certification a state license?

Accepted Answer

No. NSTPA certification is a professional education credential. It does not replace state, county, city, or local licensing requirements that may apply in your area.

Question 13

How do I pay?

Accepted Answer

Securely through Authorize.Net at checkout. We accept all major cards.

Question 14

Can I use a coupon?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Enter your code at checkout — discounts apply to courses and product add-ons.

Question 15

What's the refund policy?

Accepted Answer

If you have not yet started Chapter 2, contact support within 14 days for a full refund. Once Chapter 2 is unlocked, refunds are at NSTPA's discretion.

Question 16

How do I get support?

Accepted Answer

Email us through the contact page. Most questions are answered within one business day.

Frequently asked questions.

Getting started

Course mechanics

Certificate & verification

Payment & support