Opening a barbershop in Washington can be a solid move. The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) Cosmetology Program runs barber and salon/shop licensing. You don’t have to be a licensed barber to own a shop, but everyone who cuts or shaves hair must be licensed. Applications and renewals go through DOL (dol.wa.gov).
This guide covers what you need in Washington: barber license (1,000 hours at an approved school, or 2,000 hours apprenticeship, then exams), a salon/shop license for the establishment (UBI, liability insurance, application through DOL), business registration, workers’ comp if you have employees (L&I), what it typically costs in Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and elsewhere, where to look for space, and how to stay compliant.
8 Steps to Open Your Barbershop in Washington
Research and Business Plan
The barbershop market in Washington isn’t the same in Seattle as in Spokane or Tacoma. The Puget Sound area is dense and competitive; Eastern Washington and smaller cities tend to have lower rent and a steadier local crowd. Shops that open without a clear idea of who they’re serving often struggle—so do the research first.
What to look at in Washington:
- Competition: Use Google Maps and Yelp to see how many barbershops are nearby, what they charge (in WA you’ll see everything from about $25–$40 in many areas to $50–$75+ in Seattle and Bellevue), and what they’re known for.
- Who you’re serving: Decide whether you’re going after tech workers, families, students, or a specific neighborhood—it shapes your pricing and vibe.
- Rent and build-out: Seattle and the Eastside usually mean higher commercial rent; Spokane, Tacoma, Everett, and beyond are often cheaper. Check LoopNet, Zillow Commercial, or a local broker.
- When people come in: Lunch and after work are big near offices; weekends matter in family areas. Set your hours accordingly.
Your business plan should cover:
- Summary: Your concept, who you’re targeting, and how you’ll stand out in your WA market.
- Market and competition: Local demand, what others charge, and where you fit.
- Marketing: How you’ll get clients—Google, Instagram, and word of mouth.
- Numbers: Revenue, rent, labor (WA has one of the highest state minimum wages), and when you expect to break even.
- Day-to-day: Hours, services, and how the shop will run.
Helpful links for Washington businesses:
Strategic Location in Washington
Location in Washington drives rent, who walks in, and how much competition you face. Seattle and the Eastside usually mean higher rent and more shops; Spokane, Tacoma, Everett, and smaller towns often have lower rent and loyal local traffic.
What to look for in a Washington location:
- Visibility and foot traffic: A storefront on a busy street or near offices and retail helps with walk-ins.
- Parking: A lot of WA clients drive; easy parking can make or break a spot.
- Zoning: Confirm with the city or county that the space is allowed for personal care or barbershop use before you sign.
Where to look for space:
Major Washington markets:
Seattle & Eastside
Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland—strong demand, higher rent, lots of competition. Large, diverse market.
Spokane
Eastern WA—more affordable rent, steady local demand.
Tacoma, Everett
South and north Puget Sound—mix of rent levels and traffic.
Other areas
Smaller towns across WA with lower rents and loyal clientele.
Legal Requirements and Permits in Washington
Barbershops in Washington are regulated by the Department of Licensing (DOL) Cosmetology Program. Everyone cutting or shaving hair needs a barber license (1,000 hours at an approved school, or 2,000 hours apprenticeship, then written and practical exams; you must be at least 17). The shop needs a salon/shop license—get a UBI from the Department of Revenue, have liability insurance (at least $100,000 combined), and apply through DOL. The owner doesn’t have to be licensed, but everyone performing barbering must be. You also need business registration and workers’ compensation through L&I if you have employees.
Barber License (Individual)
Everyone cutting or shaving hair in your WA shop must hold a current barber license from DOL. You need 1,000 hours at an approved barber school (or 2,000 hours through an approved apprenticeship, or 1,200 hours under a licensed barber in a licensed shop). You must be at least 17, pass the required exams, and pay the fees. Apply and renew through DOL (dol.wa.gov). Check the Cosmetology Program page for current requirements and forms.
Where: WA Department of Licensing – Cosmetology Program
DOL – Cosmetology / Barber license →Salon/Shop License (Establishment)
Your barbershop must have a salon/shop license from DOL. You need a UBI (Unified Business Identifier) from the WA Department of Revenue, liability insurance of at least $100,000 combined bodily injury and property damage, and the completed application. Display the license and a Notice to Customers in the reception area. Details and forms are on dol.wa.gov.
Where: DOL – Salon/Shop license
DOL – Salon/Shop license →Business Entity
If you run as an LLC or corporation, form and register with the Washington Secretary of State. You’ll need a registered agent in Washington. Sole proprietors can use a trade name; check state and local rules. The UBI from the Department of Revenue is used for tax and licensing.
Where: WA Secretary of State; WA Department of Revenue (UBI)
WA Secretary of State – Corporations →WA DOR – Start a business →EIN and Taxes
If you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation, get an EIN from the IRS (free, online). If you sell retail (e.g. pomade, beard oil), register for Washington sales tax with the WA Department of Revenue and collect and remit tax.
IRS – EIN →WA DOR – Sales tax →Workers’ Compensation Insurance
General liability is a good idea (and many landlords require it). In Washington, workers’ compensation is required for most employers with employees—administered by the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). Get coverage as soon as you hire.
WA L&I – Workers’ compensation →Estimated Initial Investment in Washington
Washington costs vary by region. Atlanta and the metro tend to be at the higher end; Savannah, Augusta, Columbus, Macon, and smaller cities are more affordable. Below is an approximate breakdown in U.S. dollars for a small to mid-size shop in Washington.
Note: In Seattle or Bellevue, expect the upper end more often. In Spokane, Tacoma, or smaller cities, you’ll often land in the lower to mid range. Plan for 3–6 months of operating expenses as working capital.
Manage Your Barbershop with Technology
From day one, use management software like BarberíaClub to:
- Organise appointments online 24/7
- Manage clients and their history
- Send automatic reminders
- Reduce no-shows and stay organised
- Save time on admin
Equipment You Need for Your Washington Barbershop
DOL expects clean, well-maintained tools and proper sanitation. Invest in solid chairs, mirrors, lighting, clippers, shears, and razors. Below are ballpark prices in USD; national retailers ship to Washington.
Professional Barber Chairs
You need at least one chair per barber. Hydraulic, durable chairs are the backbone of the shop.
Estimated price: $300 – $3,500 per chair
Entry-level from around $300; premium brands $2,000+.
Mirrors and Lighting
Large mirrors and good lighting are required for quality work and a professional setup.
Estimated price: $200 – $2,000+ (mirrors and lights combined)
Clippers, Shears, and Razors
Each barber needs professional clippers (e.g. Wahl, Andis, Oster), quality shears, and razors. Proper sterilization between clients is required.
Estimated price: $150 – $600+ per clipper; $80 – $500+ per shear set; razors and blades extra
Products and Disinfection
Stock pomades, gels, beard oil, aftershave, and other retail if you sell them (register for WA sales tax). Keep EPA-approved disinfectants and follow sterilization rules.
Estimated price: $1,000 – $5,000 initial product and disinfection supply
Staff Hiring in Washington
Every barber in your WA shop must have a current barber license from DOL. You can verify through DOL. Washington’s minimum wage is among the highest in the country ($16.28/hour in 2024; check current rate—Seattle and some cities are higher). Workers’ compensation through L&I is required if you have employees.
When hiring in Washington:
- License: Confirm the license is current and in good standing with DOL.
- Experience: Review their work and, if you can, client references.
- Pay: Be clear on hourly vs. commission vs. booth rent, and follow WA minimum wage and wage-hour rules.
- Workers’ comp: Get L&I coverage as soon as you have employees.
Useful links:
Management System and Technology
No-shows and double bookings hurt. BarberíaClub lets you take bookings online 24/7, keep client history, and send reminders—something clients in Seattle, Spokane, and Tacoma expect.
Marketing and Promotion in Washington
In Washington, Google and Instagram drive a lot of new clients. Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile so you show up in local search and Maps. Post your work, location, and prices; run occasional promos to fill the chair. In busy areas like Seattle or Bellevue, a clear brand and steady posts help you get noticed. Word of mouth still works—give great service and ask for reviews.
- Google Business Profile: Keep address, hours, and photos updated so you show up for “barbershop near me.”
- Instagram: Post cuts, fades, and shop vibes; use local hashtags (e.g. #SeattleBarber #SpokaneBarber #WABarber) to reach WA clients.
- Reviews on Google and Yelp matter, especially in crowded WA markets.
Tips for Success in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions – Washington
Do I need a license to open a barbershop in Washington?
Yes. You need a salon/shop license from the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) for the establishment (UBI, liability insurance, application through DOL), and every person who cuts or shaves hair must have a current barber license from DOL. You also need workers’ compensation through L&I if you have employees.
How many hours of training are required for a barber license in Washington?
You need 1,000 hours at an approved barber school (or 2,000 hours through an approved apprenticeship, or 1,200 hours under a licensed barber in a licensed shop). You must be at least 17 and pass the required exams. Apply and renew through DOL (dol.wa.gov). Check the Cosmetology Program page for current fees and details.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in Washington?
A typical range is $26,000–$95,000+, depending on size, location, and build-out. Seattle and the Eastside tend toward the upper end; Spokane, Tacoma, and smaller cities are often lower. Rent, deposit, build-out, equipment, licenses, insurance, and 3–6 months of working capital are the main costs.
What is the first step to open a barbershop in Washington?
Plan your business and make sure you (or your barbers) have or will get a barber license (1,000 hours at an approved school, then exams). Find a location that meets local zoning. Form your business with the WA Secretary of State if you’re using an LLC or corporation. Get a UBI from the Department of Revenue and apply for your salon/shop license through DOL. Get workers’ comp through L&I as soon as you have employees.