Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Louisville, KY

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.

Updated 2026-03-15 5 stops $200–$800 est. 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses
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 or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Kentucky

2 stops

  1. State Barber License (per barber)

    Each barber must hold a valid Kentucky 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. Kentucky Department of Revenue — Sales and Use Tax Permit

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or certain services in Kentucky. Kentucky charges a flat 6% state sales tax with no local sales taxes (most transactions). Certain services including telecommunications, digital products, and some repair services are also taxable. Register online with the Kentucky Department of Revenue.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online via Kentucky One Stop Business Portal)

City of Louisville / Jefferson County

2 stops

  1. Kentucky Board of Hairdressers and Cosmetologists — Barber Shop License

    Barber shops in Kentucky 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–$80 (initial)3–6 weeks after application and inspection

  2. Louisville Metro Revenue Commission — Business License

    Louisville (Louisville Metro / Jefferson County) requires an Occupational License for all businesses. The Revenue Commission processes license applications and collections. 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

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

Get my personalized route — $14.99

Official Sources

Related Guides