The licenses most salons need
Rules are set by each state and city, but nearly every new nail salon needs licenses in three groups: the salon itself, the people working in it, and the business.
For the salon
- Salon or establishment license from your state's cosmetology board. Many boards inspect the salon before issuing it.
- Certificate of occupancy from your city or county once construction passes inspection.
For the people
- Nail technician license for every person doing nails, from the same state board.
- Manager or owner license in some states, if the owner isn't licensed.
For the business
- Business registration, such as an LLC with your Secretary of State.
- EIN (tax ID) from the IRS, needed for payroll and bank accounts.
- City or county business license.
- Sales tax permit if your state taxes retail products you sell.
The order to get them in
- Form your business (LLC or other entity) and get your EIN.
- Confirm the space is zoned for a nail salon before you sign the lease.
- Apply for building permits for your build-out.
- Pass building, plumbing, electrical and fire inspections, then get your certificate of occupancy.
- Apply for your salon license with the state board, and schedule the inspection if your state requires one.
- Get your city or county business license and sales tax permit.
- Confirm every nail tech's license is active before their first day.
Step 5 is the one owners most often leave too late. If your state inspects salons before licensing, a delay there means a finished salon that can't legally open.
Not sure what your state requires?
We map out the licensing steps for your state and city as part of your 120-day plan, so nothing holds up opening day.
Book a free strategy callState cosmetology boards
Your state board is the official source for salon and nail tech licensing rules. Here are the boards in some of the states we work with most often.
| State | Licensing board |
|---|---|
| Georgia | Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers |
| Texas | Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) |
| California | California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology |
| Florida | Florida Board of Cosmetology |
| North Carolina | North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners |
| Virginia | Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology (DPOR) |
| New York | New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services |
| Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania State Board of Cosmetology |
Board names and rules change. Always confirm current requirements, fees and forms directly with your state board and city before you apply.
Passing your salon inspection
- Approved disinfectant on hand, with the label visible, for tools and pedicure spas.
- A cleaning log for pedicure spas, if your state requires one.
- Covered trash containers and separate storage for clean and used tools.
- Hand-washing sink and restroom access for staff and clients.
- Your salon license and each tech's license posted where clients can see them.
Requirements differ by state, so use your board's own inspection checklist as the final word.
Common questions
Something else on your mind? Call us at (470) 971-5008.
Do I need a salon license if I already have a nail tech license?
In most states, yes. Your nail tech license covers you as a person. The salon usually needs its own establishment license, plus city and business licenses.
Can I open a nail salon without being a nail tech?
In many states, yes, as long as licensed technicians do the services. Some states require a licensed manager on site. Check your state board's rules.
How long does it take to get a salon license?
It varies by state and by how quickly an inspection can be scheduled. Apply as early as your state allows so it doesn't hold up opening.
Is Salon Roadmap a legal service?
No. We're consultants. We help you plan the licensing steps and timeline, but always confirm requirements with your state board and an attorney or accountant where needed.
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We take on 4 new salon owners each month, so every client gets hands-on help.
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