Auto Repair Shop Permit Requirements in Nashville, TN

1. EPA Small Quantity Generator (SQG) Registration

   Auto repair shops that generate used oil, antifreeze, or other hazardous waste must register with the EPA as a hazardous waste generator. Most auto shops qualify as Small Quantity Generators (SQG). Registration is administered through TDEC in Tennessee.

   Official government source

   Free (registration only; disposal costs vary)·2–4 weeks

   Free (registration only; disposal costs vary)

   2–4 weeks

2. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. No State Auto Repair Shop License (Tennessee)

   Tennessee does not require a separate state license for general motor vehicle repair shops. Individual auto mechanics are not required to hold a state license. The Tennessee Motor Vehicle Commission licenses dealers (shops that sell vehicles), not repair-only businesses. Shops must provide written estimates and obtain customer authorization per state consumer protection laws.

   Official government source

   No fee·N/A

   No fee

   N/A

2. Tennessee Sales and Use Tax Registration

   Auto repair shops must register with the Tennessee Department of Revenue to collect sales tax on parts sold and taxable services. Tennessee taxes labor for auto repairs in addition to parts. The state rate is 7%; Davidson County adds 2.25% for a combined rate of 9.25%.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

3. EPA Section 609 Certification (Automotive A/C)

   Technicians servicing vehicle air conditioning systems must be EPA Section 609 certified. Required for individual technicians handling refrigerants.

   Official government source

   $20–$35 per technician·Exam at approved testing center; certificate immediate upon passing

   $20–$35 per technician

   Exam at approved testing center; certificate immediate upon passing

1. Metro Nashville Business License

   All businesses operating in Metro Nashville-Davidson County must obtain a business license from the Metro Nashville Department of Finance. Auto repair shops require a business license renewed annually. Apply online through the Nashville business portal.

   Official government source

   $30–$100 (minimum tax; scales with gross receipts)·1–2 weeks

   $30–$100 (minimum tax; scales with gross receipts)

   1–2 weeks

2. Metro Nashville Building Permit and Certificate of Occupancy

   Auto repair shops must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from Metro Nashville's Department of Codes and Building Safety. Auto repair is typically permitted in CS (Commercial Service) and industrial zones. A building permit is required for any tenant improvements.

   Official government source

   $200–$800 (varies by project scope)·3–8 weeks

   $200–$800 (varies by project scope)

   3–8 weeks

3. Nashville Fire Marshal Inspection

   Auto repair shops must pass a Nashville Metro Fire Marshal inspection as part of the certificate of occupancy process. Compliance with fire codes for flammable liquid storage and fire suppression is required.

   Official government source

   Included in CO fees·1–3 weeks

   Included in CO fees

   1–3 weeks

4. Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) — Hazardous Waste

   Nashville auto repair shops generating used oil, antifreeze, solvents, and other hazardous waste must comply with TDEC regulations. Auto body paint booths may require an air quality permit from TDEC's Division of Air Pollution Control.

   Official government source

   Free (registration); air permits $100–$500·2–6 weeks

   Free (registration); air permits $100–$500

   2–6 weeks

Official Sources

• Metro Nashville — Business License
• TDEC — Automotive Shops Environmental Guidance
• Tennessee Revenue — Sales and Use Tax

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