Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Columbia, SC

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina.

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $200–$800 est. 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses
Get my personalized route — $14.99

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 South Carolina

2 stops

  1. State Barber License (per barber)

    Each barber must hold a valid South Carolina Barber License. Requires 1,500 hours (or equivalent) of barber school and passing the state barber board exam.

    Official government source

    $40–$100 (initial)4–8 weeks

  2. South Carolina Department of Revenue — Retail License

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property at retail in South Carolina. South Carolina charges a 6% state sales tax; local jurisdictions may add up to 3% more. A $50 one-time license fee applies.

    Official government source

    $50 one-timeImmediate (online via MyDORWAY)

City of Columbia / Richland County

2 stops

  1. South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation — Barber Shop License

    Barber shops in South Carolina 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

    $50–$100 (initial)3–6 weeks

  2. City of Columbia Business License Division — Business License

    The City of Columbia requires an annual Business License for all businesses with a location within city limits. The fee is based on 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. $200–$800 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses

Want this mapped to your exact business and structure, in filing order?

Get my personalized route — $14.99

Official Sources

Related Guides