Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Des Moines, IA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa.

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 Iowa

2 stops

  1. Iowa Nail Technician License (per technician)

    Each nail technician must hold a valid Iowa 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. Iowa Department of Revenue — Sales Tax Permit

    Required for all businesses selling taxable goods or services in Iowa. Iowa charges a 6% state sales tax; local option sales taxes of up to 1% may apply. Register with the Iowa Department of Revenue online.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online via eFile & Pay)

City of Des Moines / Polk County

2 stops

  1. Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences — Salon License

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

    Official government source

    $50 (initial)3–6 weeks

  2. City of Des Moines Development Services Department — Business License

    Des Moines requires a Business License for regulated businesses and a Certificate of Occupancy for commercial spaces. The Development Services Department processes permits. 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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