Opening a Barbershop in Minnesota

 

Opening a barbershop in Minnesota means establishing a formal business entity while meeting specific state health and regulatory standards. To ensure a smooth launch, follow these essential steps: 

 


  1. Review the Application Guidelines: Start by obtaining a barbershop registration application from the Minnesota Board of Barber Examiners to use as your roadmap. The application can be printed out or downloaded from here.
  2. Choose a Business Structure: Decide on a legal structure for your business—such as a sole proprietorship, general partnership, Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), corporation, or Limited Liability Company (LLC).
  3. Register Your Business and Name: Register your business entity and your shop's trade name with the Minnesota Secretary of State. You can contact their office at 651-296-2803 or 1-877-551-6767, or visit www.sos.state.mn.us.
  4. Obtain a Minnesota Tax ID: Register for a state tax identification number through the Minnesota Department of Revenue at 651-282-5225. https://www.mndor.state.mn.us/tp/eservices/_/
  5. Submit Your Barbershop Registration: Once your location is secured and your business is registered with the Secretary of State, submit your completed barbershop application and fee to the Board of Barber Examiners. All barbershops must be fully registered and active before opening for business.

 

Cross-Licensing for Salons: If you operate a hair salon licensed by the Board of Cosmetology and want a registered barber to work there, the salon must also register as a barbershop with the Board of Barber Examiners. Conversely, if a registered barbershop wants to employ a cosmetologist, the shop must secure a salon license from the Board of Cosmetology (contact them at 651-201-2742 or via mn.gov/boards/cosmetology).

 

Ownership FAQ: Do I Need to Be a Registered Barber?

No, you do not need to be a registered barber to own a barbershop. However, you must hold a valid registered barber license if you intend to personally cut hair and work inside a barbershop in Minnesota.

 

Other Important Considerations

  • Professional Guidance: Before launching, it is highly recommended to consult with legal counsel and an accountant.
  • Business Insurance: You will need to reach out to your insurance agent to secure proper insurance coverage, including property liability, general liability, and employee protections like workers' compensation and unemployment insurance.
  • Management & Staffing: Determine whether you will operate a single-barber shop or hire a team. Every licensed barbershop must appoint a designated registered barber to manage the facility, particularly when multiple barbers are working. You will also need to decide whether to bring barbers on as W-2 employees or independent contractors.
  • Tax and Business Resources: For help managing business taxes, consult a certified public accountant. Additional guidance on starting a business in the state can be found through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) publication, A Guide to Starting a Business in Minnesota, or online at mn.gov/deed/business/starting-business.

 

Need Help?

If you have questions about the application process, please contact the Barber Board office directly at 651-201-2820.