Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Honolulu, HI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in Honolulu, Honolulu County, Hawaii.

$300 -- $900 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses 5 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Honolulu / Honolulu County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Hawaii Board of Cosmetology — Salon License

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

$30 (initial)3–6 weeks
Official government source
2

City and County of Honolulu Department of Budget and Fiscal Services — Business License

Honolulu requires a City business registration and applicable permits from the Department of Planning and Permitting in addition to the state GET license. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

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

Hawaii State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Hawaii Nail Technician License (per technician)

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

$40–$75 (initial)4–8 weeks
Official government source
2

Hawaii Department of Taxation — General Excise Tax License

Hawaii does not have a traditional sales tax but requires all businesses to pay a General Excise Tax (GET) on gross income from business activities. The GET rate is 4% (4.5% in Honolulu). All businesses must register for a GET license with the Hawaii Department of Taxation.

$20 (one-time registration fee)2–4 weeks (by mail) or immediate (in-person)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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