Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $500–$1,800 est. 5–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
Get my personalized route — $14.99

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 Illinois

3 stops

  1. Illinois Division of Professional Regulation — Barber Shop License

    All barber shops in Illinois must be licensed by the Illinois Division of Professional Regulation (IDFPR). The barber shop establishment license requires an application, payment of fees, and an on-site inspection to verify compliance with the Illinois Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Hair Braiding, and Nail Technology Act (225 ILCS 410). Shops must meet sanitation and equipment standards.

    Official government source

    $40 application fee4–8 weeks (includes application processing and inspection)

  2. Individual Barber License (per barber)

    Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid Illinois Barber License issued by IDFPR. This requires completing an approved 1,500-hour barber program, passing a written exam, and paying a license fee.

    Official government source

    $40 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exam)

  3. Illinois Retailer's Occupation Tax (Sales Tax) Registration

    Required if selling retail products in your barber shop. The combined sales tax rate in Chicago is 10.25%.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Chicago / Cook County

2 stops

  1. City of Chicago — Limited Business License (Retail/Services)

    Barber shops in Chicago require a Limited Business License from the City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). Apply online through the Chicago Business Direct portal or in person at a City Hall business center.

    Official government source

    $250–$330 biennial (every 2 years, depending on square footage)2–4 weeks

  2. Chicago Department of Buildings — Certificate of Occupancy

    A Certificate of Occupancy from the Chicago Department of Buildings is required to confirm the space is approved for personal services use. Contact at 312-744-3449.

    Official government source

    $150–$800 (varies by scope of work)2–8 weeks

Terminus

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

Want this mapped to your exact business and structure, in filing order?

Get my personalized route — $14.99

Official Sources

Related Guides