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How-to Guide: Salons & Barber Shop Application

Application information for Salons & Barber Shops.
Verify Application Status

How to Apply

If you would like to apply for a Salon or Shop license, please submit a completed application and fee. 

Licenses issued before July 1, 2015 were issued both a BRSH identifier and a COSA identifier. Shops with a BRSH number may renew or reinstate their current license and keep their BRSH number. New BRSH numbers are no longer issued by the Board. All new salons and shops are issued only a COSA identifier.

If you would like to apply for a salon or shop license, it is required that you file with the Secretary of State. Review the requirements and the step-by-step guides below. 

  • Licensure requires a completed, signed, and notarized application along with a required fee. 
  • See specific instructions for your application depending on the license and application type. 
  • You must submit all the required documentation and fees in order to be considered for licensure. 

The Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers oversees licensure for Salons and Barber shops:

New Salon or Shop or Change Owners

Reinstatement

Renewal

Application for Salon Change of Name or Location

Please be aware that a salon/shop license is NOT the same as a business license. Please contact the city or county in which you are establishing your salon/shop to obtain a business license or occupational tax certificate.

 

After you Apply – What to Expect

  • Processing Time – Applications are generally processed within 20 business days of receipt, excluding weekends and holidays. Applications are individually evaluated by the Board in order of date received, and processing times can vary based on individual circumstances and volume. 
    • If you receive a deficiency letter, your 20-day count restarts when the Board receives your correct and complete documentation.
    • Please Note – Incomplete applications may be withdrawn if noted deficiencies are not satisfied within 60 days of said notification. If your application is withdrawn, you will be required to restart the application process to be considered for licensure, to include submission of all required documents and fees. 
    • Completed applications will be initially reviewed by Board staff and may be reviewed by the Board at an upcoming Board Meeting. Applications must be complete and received at least 15 days prior to a Board Meeting to be added to that meeting’s agenda. Otherwise, the application will be reviewed at the next Board meeting.
  • Check Application Status >>
  • Keep Your Contact Info Up to Date
    • Be sure the email address you include for yourself on your application is correct and current. Email is the primary means of communication used by the Board. 
    • Additionally, it is important for applicants/licensees to update their email address with the Board just as they would update their physical and mailing addresses.
  • Wait For It
    • You may not legally perform services until you hold an active license. 
    • Staff will communicate with you regarding the status of your application.

New Salon or Shop or Change Owners

If you would like to apply for a Salon or Shop license or change owners of a salon or shop, please submit a completed application and fee.

Reinstatement

If you would like to apply for reinstatement, it is required that you file with the Secretary of State.

Renewal

If you currently hold this license and need to renew in order to keep your license up to date, apply for renewal before June 30th of odd numbered years to avoid late fees.

Application for Salon Change of Name or Location

If you have previously registered with the Board but would like to submit a change of address or name, please complete this application.

How to File

To apply by mail:

Please contact us to request a mail-in application.

Contact

Group 20

Related Resources

Contact Georgia Board of Cosmetology and Barbers