Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Billings, MT

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Billings, Yellowstone County, Montana.

Updated 2026-03-15 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 Montana

2 stops

  1. Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists — Individual Cosmetologist License

    Each cosmetologist must hold a valid Montana Cosmetologist License. Requires 2,000 hours of cosmetology school and passing the state board exam.

    Official government source

    $50 (initial)4–8 weeks

  2. Montana — No Sales Tax

    Montana has no state or local sales tax. Businesses do not need a sales tax permit. However, businesses must register with the Montana Department of Revenue for applicable business taxes (e.g., withholding, corporate income tax if applicable).

    Official government source

    Free (business registration)Immediate (online via TransAction Portal)

City of Billings / Yellowstone County

2 stops

  1. Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists — Salon License

    All cosmetology salons in Montana must be licensed by the Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. An inspection is required before the license is issued.

    Official government source

    $50 (initial)3–6 weeks

  2. City of Billings City Clerk — Business License

    Billings requires a Business License for regulated businesses operating within city limits. The City Clerk's office processes applications. 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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