Who needs licensed cosmetologists, nail specialists, estheticians and barbers in New York?

Issued by New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services, at step 4 of 6 in the opening sequence: get the permits for your kind of business.

3 of the 20 kinds of business in New York

Everyone who cuts, colors, waxes or does nails holds an individual license after the school hours and the state exam. Hiring unlicensed staff puts the business license at risk.

Checked Oct 17, 2026 against the agency’s page.

Step 4 of 6: Get the permits for your kind of business

  1. Set up the business
  2. Register for tax
  3. Approve the space
  4. Get the permits for your kind of business
  5. Alcohol permits
  6. Before the first hire

Issued by New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services.

Sources and dates

Department of State cosmetology application (January 2026). Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.

Questions about opening here.