Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Wilmington, DE

Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in Wilmington, New Castle County, Delaware.

Updated 2026-03-15 5 stops $300–$900 est. 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses
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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 or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Delaware

2 stops
  1. Delaware Nail Technician License (per technician)

    Each nail technician must hold a valid Delaware Nail Technician (Manicurist) License. Requires completion of a nail technology program (typically 300–600 hours) and passing a state board exam.

    Official government source

    $40–$75 (initial)4–8 weeks

  2. Delaware — No Sales Tax

    Delaware has no state or local sales tax. Instead, Delaware levies a Gross Receipts Tax on the seller of goods or provider of services, based on total receipts. Register with the Delaware Division of Revenue.

    Official government source

    Free (gross receipts tax registration)Immediate (online)

City of Wilmington / New Castle County

2 stops
  1. Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering — Salon License

    Nail salons in Delaware must obtain a cosmetology establishment license from the state board. An inspection is required before the license is issued.

    Official government source

    $75 (initial)4–8 weeks

  2. City of Wilmington Revenue Division — Business License

    Wilmington requires a City Business License for all businesses operating within city limits. Fees are based on business type. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

    Official government source

    $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $300–$900 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses

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Official Sources

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