Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Los Angeles, CA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $500–$1,800 est. 5–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of California

3 stops

  1. California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology — Barber Shop Establishment License

    All barber shops in California must be licensed by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC). The establishment license requires an on-site inspection to verify compliance with California Code of Regulations Title 16, Division 9. The shop must have proper sanitation equipment, plumbing, and all required tools. Apply via the BreEZe online system.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee + $25 inspection fee (approximately)4–8 weeks (includes application processing and on-site inspection)

  2. Individual Barber License (per barber)

    Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid California Barber License issued by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. This requires 1,500 hours of education at a licensed barber school, passing written and practical exams administered by PSI Exams.

    Official government source

    $55 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

  3. California Seller's Permit

    Required if your barber shop sells retail products (hair care products, styling tools, etc.). Apply for free through the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). The combined sales tax rate in Los Angeles is 10.25%.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate to 1 week (online application)

City of Los Angeles / Los Angeles County

2 stops

  1. City of Los Angeles Business Tax Registration Certificate

    All businesses operating in Los Angeles must register with the City of Los Angeles Office of Finance and obtain a Business Tax Registration Certificate (BTRC). Barber shops fall under the personal services category. The annual tax is based on gross receipts. Apply online through the LA Business Portal.

    Official government source

    $153–$400/year (based on gross receipts; minimum tax applies)1–2 weeks (online application)

  2. City of Los Angeles Building and Safety — Certificate of Occupancy

    A Certificate of Occupancy from the Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) is required to confirm the space meets zoning and building code requirements for personal services use. Contact LADBS at 213-482-0000.

    Official government source

    $200–$800 (varies by scope of work)2–6 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $500–$1,800 · 5–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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