Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Providence, RI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island.

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 Rhode Island

2 stops

  1. Rhode Island Board of Barbering and Hairdressing — Individual Cosmetologist License

    Each cosmetologist must hold a valid Rhode Island Cosmetologist License. Requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology school and passing the state board exam.

    Official government source

    $50 (initial)4–8 weeks

  2. Rhode Island Division of Taxation — Sales Tax Permit

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or taxable services in Rhode Island. Rhode Island charges a 7% state sales tax with no local sales taxes. Register with the RI Division of Taxation online via the RI Tax Portal.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

City of Providence / Providence County

2 stops

  1. Rhode Island Board of Barbering and Hairdressing — Salon License

    All cosmetology salons in Rhode Island must be licensed by the RI Board of Barbering and Hairdressing. An inspection is required before the license is issued.

    Official government source

    $75 (initial)3–6 weeks

  2. City of Providence Department of Finance — Revenue Division — Business License

    Providence requires a City Business License for all businesses operating within city limits. License fees are based on business type and gross revenues. 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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