Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Indianapolis, IN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana.

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $200–$800 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 Indiana

2 stops

  1. State Barber License (per barber)

    Each barber must hold a valid Indiana Barber License. Requires 1,500 hours (or equivalent) of barber school and passing the state barber board exam.

    Official government source

    $40–$100 (initial)4–8 weeks

  2. Indiana Department of Revenue — Registered Retail Merchant Certificate

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property at retail in Indiana. Indiana charges a flat 7% state sales tax with no additional local sales tax. Register online via INBiz.

    Official government source

    $25 one-time registration feeImmediate (online via INBiz)

City of Indianapolis / Marion County

2 stops

  1. Indiana Professional Licensing Agency — Barber Shop License

    Barber shops in Indiana must be licensed by the state cosmetology/barber board. The shop must pass an inspection before the license is issued. Annual or biennial renewal required.

    Official government source

    $50 (initial salon license)4–8 weeks

  2. Indianapolis Department of Business and Neighborhood Services — Business License

    Indianapolis (Marion County) requires a Commercial Zoning Certificate and may require a Business License depending on the 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. $200–$800 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses

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Official Sources

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