Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Newark, NJ

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Newark, Essex County, New Jersey.

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 New Jersey

2 stops

  1. New Jersey Board of Cosmetology — Individual Cosmetologist License

    Each cosmetologist working in the salon must hold a valid New Jersey Cosmetologist/Hairstylist License. Requires 1,200 hours of cosmetology school and passing the state board exam.

    Official government source

    $70 (initial); $45 (biennial renewal)4–8 weeks

  2. New Jersey Division of Taxation — Sales Tax Certificate of Authority

    Required for all businesses selling taxable goods or services in New Jersey. New Jersey charges a 6.625% state sales tax. Most services are exempt; retail product sales and certain services are taxable. Register free online via the State of New Jersey Business Registration portal.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate to 3 business days (online)

City of Newark / Essex County

2 stops

  1. New Jersey Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling — Salon License

    All cosmetology salons in New Jersey must be licensed by the NJ Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling. The salon must pass an inspection before the license is issued. License must be renewed biennially.

    Official government source

    $100 (initial); $70 (biennial renewal)4–8 weeks after application and inspection

  2. City of Newark Division of Revenue & Finance — Business License

    The City of Newark requires a Business Registration Certificate for all businesses operating within city limits. Certain business types require additional permits from the Division of Health and Community Wellness. 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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