Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Nashville, TN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $250–$1,000 est. 3–7 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 Tennessee

3 stops

  1. Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners — Barber Shop License

    All barber shops in Tennessee must be licensed by the Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. The barber shop establishment license requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with Tennessee Code Annotated Title 62, Chapter 3. The shop must meet sanitation, equipment, and facility standards.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)

  2. Individual Barber License (per barber)

    Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid Tennessee Master Barber License issued by the Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. This requires completing an approved 1,500-hour barber program, passing a written and practical exam.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

  3. Tennessee Sales Tax Registration

    Required for selling retail products. The combined sales tax rate in Nashville/Davidson County is 9.25%.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Nashville / Davidson County

2 stops

  1. Metropolitan Nashville — Business License (Metro Business Tax)

    All businesses operating in Nashville-Davidson County with gross receipts over $3,000 must obtain a standard Business License from the Metro Nashville Finance Department. Apply online through the Tennessee Taxpayer Access Point (TNTAP).

    Official government source

    $15 (minimal) to $100/year (standard, based on gross receipts)1–2 weeks (online application)

  2. Metro Nashville — Certificate of Occupancy

    A Certificate of Occupancy from Metro Nashville Codes Administration is required before opening a barber shop. Contact Codes Administration at 615-862-6560.

    Official government source

    $100–$500 (varies by scope of work)2–5 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $250–$1,000 · 3–7 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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