Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Indianapolis, IN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana.

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $300–$1,000 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. Indiana Professional Licensing Agency — Individual Cosmetologist License

    Each cosmetologist working in the salon must hold a valid Indiana Cosmetologist License. Requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology training and passing the state board exam.

    Official government source

    $50 (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 — Cosmetology Salon License

    All cosmetology salons in Indiana must be licensed by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA). The salon must be inspected by the Indiana State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners before the license is issued.

    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. $300–$1,000 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses

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Official Sources

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