Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Virginia Beach, VA

1. 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)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

1. Virginia DPOR Cosmetology Salon License

   The Virginia Department of Professional & Occupational Regulation (DPOR) issues cosmetology salon licenses to hair salons statewide. A salon license is required in addition to individual cosmetologist licenses. The facility must comply with DPOR sanitation standards and pass an inspection before the license is issued.

   Official government source

   $105–$165/year·2–4 weeks

   $105–$165/year

   2–4 weeks

2. Individual Cosmetologist Licenses (DPOR)

   All cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians, and other salon professionals working in Virginia must hold individual licenses issued by Virginia DPOR. Licenses require completion of an accredited cosmetology program and passing state board exams.

   Official government source

   $55–$80/year per individual·2–6 weeks

   $55–$80/year per individual

   2–6 weeks

3. Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) Business Registration

   All formal business entities operating in Virginia must register with the Virginia State Corporation Commission. An LLC is the most common structure for salon owners, costing approximately $100 to file with the SCC.

   Official government source

   $100 (LLC filing fee)·1–2 weeks

   $100 (LLC filing fee)

   1–2 weeks

4. Virginia Department of Taxation Sales Tax Registration

   Hair salon services in Virginia may be subject to sales tax for certain services and retail product sales. Register with the Virginia Department of Taxation to obtain a sales tax certificate and properly collect and remit applicable taxes.

   Official government source

   Free·1 week

   Free

   1 week

1. Virginia Beach BPOL License (Business, Professional, Occupational License)

   Virginia Beach requires all businesses to obtain a BPOL license from the Commissioner of Revenue before operating. This license is unique to Virginia's independent city system and covers the local business operating authorization. The fee is calculated based on gross receipts with a minimum flat fee. Hair salons are classified under the professional/service business category. Must be renewed annually by March 1.

   Official government source

   $50–$150/year (based on gross receipts)·1–2 weeks

   $50–$150/year (based on gross receipts)

   1–2 weeks

2. Certificate of Occupancy

   The Virginia Beach Department of Planning & Community Development requires a Certificate of Occupancy when opening a salon in a commercial space or making significant improvements. This ensures the space meets zoning requirements, building codes, and fire safety standards. A salon plumbing and ventilation inspection is typically part of the process.

   Official government source

   $150–$500 (depending on scope of improvements)·3–8 weeks

   $150–$500 (depending on scope of improvements)

   3–8 weeks

3. Virginia Beach Health Department Sanitation Inspection

   The Virginia Beach Health Department conducts sanitation inspections of cosmetology establishments to ensure compliance with Virginia sanitation standards, including proper disinfection procedures, ventilation, and equipment handling.

   Official government source

   $50–$150 (inspection fee)·2–4 weeks

   $50–$150 (inspection fee)

   2–4 weeks

Official Sources

• Virginia DPOR — Cosmetology
• Virginia Beach Commissioner of Revenue — Business License (BPOL)
• Virginia Beach Department of Planning — Permits & Inspections
• Virginia State Corporation Commission — Business Registration

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