Auto Repair Shop Permit Requirements in Nashville, TN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a auto repair shop in Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee.

$500 -- $2000 4–9 weeks to obtain all licenses, permits, and complete inspections 9 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: February 15, 2026.

Nashville / Davidson County Requirements

4 requirements

Metro Nashville Business License

All businesses operating in Metro Nashville-Davidson County must obtain a business license from the Metro Nashville Department of Finance. Auto repair shops require a business license renewed annually. Apply online through the Nashville business portal.

$30–$100 (minimum tax; scales with gross receipts)1–2 weeks

Official government source

Metro Nashville Building Permit and Certificate of Occupancy

Auto repair shops must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from Metro Nashville's Department of Codes and Building Safety. Auto repair is typically permitted in CS (Commercial Service) and industrial zones. A building permit is required for any tenant improvements.

$200–$800 (varies by project scope)3–8 weeks

Official government source

Nashville Fire Marshal Inspection

Auto repair shops must pass a Nashville Metro Fire Marshal inspection as part of the certificate of occupancy process. Compliance with fire codes for flammable liquid storage and fire suppression is required.

Included in CO fees1–3 weeks

Official government source

Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) — Hazardous Waste

Nashville auto repair shops generating used oil, antifreeze, solvents, and other hazardous waste must comply with TDEC regulations. Auto body paint booths may require an air quality permit from TDEC's Division of Air Pollution Control.

Free (registration); air permits $100–$5002–6 weeks

Official government source

Tennessee State Requirements

3 requirements

No State Auto Repair Shop License (Tennessee)

Tennessee does not require a separate state license for general motor vehicle repair shops. Individual auto mechanics are not required to hold a state license. The Tennessee Motor Vehicle Commission licenses dealers (shops that sell vehicles), not repair-only businesses. Shops must provide written estimates and obtain customer authorization per state consumer protection laws.

No feeN/A

Official government source

Tennessee Sales and Use Tax Registration

Auto repair shops must register with the Tennessee Department of Revenue to collect sales tax on parts sold and taxable services. Tennessee taxes labor for auto repairs in addition to parts. The state rate is 7%; Davidson County adds 2.25% for a combined rate of 9.25%.

FreeImmediate (online)

Official government source

EPA Section 609 Certification (Automotive A/C)

Technicians servicing vehicle air conditioning systems must be EPA Section 609 certified. Required for individual technicians handling refrigerants.

$20–$35 per technicianExam at approved testing center; certificate immediate upon passing

Official government source

Federal Requirements

2 requirements

EPA Small Quantity Generator (SQG) Registration

Auto repair shops that generate used oil, antifreeze, or other hazardous waste must register with the EPA as a hazardous waste generator. Most auto shops qualify as Small Quantity Generators (SQG). Registration is administered through TDEC in Tennessee.

Free (registration only; disposal costs vary)2–4 weeks

Official government source