Barber Shop Permit Requirements in St. Louis, MO

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in St. Louis, St. Louis City, Missouri.

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 Missouri

2 stops

  1. State Barber License (per barber)

    Each barber must hold a valid Missouri barber license from the Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. Requires at least 1,000 hours in a board-approved barber school (or a 2,000-hour registered apprenticeship) and passing the written and practical exams (RSMo 328.080).

    Official government source

    $40–$100 (confirm against the board fee rule — needs_review)4–8 weeks

  2. Missouri Department of Revenue — Sales Tax License

    Required for all businesses selling taxable goods in Missouri. The state rate is 4.225%; local rates vary by city and county. Register online with the Missouri Department of Revenue.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of St. Louis / St. Louis City

2 stops

  1. Missouri State Board of Barber and Barber Examiners — Barber Shop License

    Barber shops in Missouri 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

    $35 (initial); $35 (annual renewal)3–6 weeks

  2. City of St. Louis License Collector — Business License

    St. Louis City is an independent city (not part of St. Louis County) and requires a Business License from the License Collector's office. 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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