Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Virginia Beach, VA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach City, Virginia.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $300–$1,100 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 Virginia

3 stops

  1. Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology — Barber Shop License

    All barber shops in Virginia must be licensed by the Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology (DPOR). The barber shop establishment license requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with Virginia Code Title 54.1 and 18 VAC 41. The shop must meet sanitation, equipment, and facility standards.

    Official government source

    $70 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 Virginia Master Barber License issued by DPOR. This requires completing an approved 1,500-hour barber program, passing a written and practical exam administered by PSI Exams.

    Official government source

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

  3. Virginia Sales Tax Registration

    Required for selling retail products. The combined sales tax rate in Virginia Beach is approximately 6%.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Virginia Beach / Virginia Beach City

2 stops

  1. City of Virginia Beach — Business License (BPOL)

    All businesses operating in Virginia Beach must obtain a Business License from the Virginia Beach Commissioner of the Revenue. Barber shops are classified as personal services businesses. The license is based on gross receipts and is renewed annually.

    Official government source

    $50–$500/year (rate is $0.19 per $100 of gross receipts for personal services)1–2 weeks

  2. City of Virginia Beach — Certificate of Occupancy

    A Certificate of Occupancy from the Virginia Beach Department of Planning and Community Development is required before opening a barber shop. Contact at 757-385-4211.

    Official government source

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

Terminus

Open for business — est. $300–$1,100 · 3–7 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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