Barber Shop Permit Requirements in New York City, NY

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in New York City, New York County, New York.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $500–$2,000 est. 5–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
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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/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of New York

3 stops

  1. New York State Department of State — Appearance Enhancement License (Barber Shop)

    All barber shops in New York State must be licensed by the New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services under the Appearance Enhancement Business category. The license requires an application, payment of fees, and passing an on-site inspection. Compliance with New York General Business Law Article 28 (Barbers) is also required.

    Official government source

    $100 application fee (2-year license)4–8 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)

  2. Individual Barber License (per barber)

    Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid New York State Barber License issued by the NY Department of State. This requires completing an approved 1,000-hour barber program, passing a written and practical exam.

    Official government source

    $40 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

  3. New York State Sales Tax Certificate of Authority

    Required for selling retail products in your barber shop. The combined NYC sales tax rate is 8.875%.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of New York City / New York County

2 stops

  1. NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection — Appearance Enhancement License

    Barber shops operating in New York City require an Appearance Enhancement Establishment License from the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP). This is a NYC-specific license requirement (in addition to the state license). Apply online through the NYC Business portal. Annual renewal required.

    Official government source

    $110/year2–4 weeks

  2. NYC Department of Buildings — Certificate of Occupancy

    A Certificate of Occupancy from the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) is required if the barber shop is in a new or altered space. Contact DOB at 212-566-5000.

    Official government source

    $200–$1,000 (varies by scope of work)3–8 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $500–$2,000 · 5–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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