May 2026
Dear Customers, Colleagues, and Friends,
May is a month for blossoming – whether it’s the flowers in your garden, or new graduates embarking on the next part of their journey, May is a time of endings and new beginnings.
This month, the DC Chamber of Commerce is focused on helping even more businesses start, expand, and prosper by hosting the 2026 DC Chamber of Commerce Small Business Summit & Showcase. I am excited to participate in the Summit, where we will engage directly with business owners and share resources.
May also brings Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time to honor the cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities across the District. Stay tuned as the DLCP Hub will feature special content highlighting the District’s
DLCP is also preparing for the completion of the DC Bridge Project, a major technology upgrade that will bring registration and licensing functions into one unified platform. This new system will streamline processes, reduce administrative steps, and create a clearer and more efficient experience for customers. Additional details are included below.
As we move toward the summer months, DLCP is preparing seasonal guidance and information for businesses, including updates for those engaged in the business of fireworks in the District.
Thank you for your continued partnership. I look forward to the progress we will make together in the months ahead.
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 Tiffany Crowe
Director
Our newest DLCP Hub article spotlights the work and impact of DC architect Ronnie McGhee, whose decades of design, restoration, and mentorship have shaped communities across the District. From historic preservation to inspiring future architects, his story highlights the power of design in everyday life.
Read the full feature on the DLCP Hub to learn more about his contributions.
DLCP oversees nine Boards and Commissions that help guide licensing standards, support professional accountability, and strengthen consumer protection across the District. These meetings give the public a chance to stay connected to the work happening across licensed industries and to follow discussions that shape regulatory decisions.
You can stay in the know by viewing the monthly meeting calendar posted on our website. The calendar includes dates, times, and links to additional meeting details.
The Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) is excited to announce a new partnership with Prov, Inc., bringing expanded access and a more convenient testing experience to candidates seeking licensure in Cosmetology and related professions.
Through this partnership, all NIC written examinations including Cosmetology, Barber, Esthetician, Nail Technology, Hair Braiding, Body Piercing, Tattooing, and more are now administered by Prov across its nationwide network of more than 400 computer based testing centers.
Key Benefits for Candidates
- Greater convenience: Schedule at any Prov testing center across the U.S., making it easier to test close to home or school.
- Fast, reliable results: Official scores are emailed within 1 to 3 days, helping candidates progress quickly through the licensing process.
- Easy scheduling: Book online at ProvExam.com or contact Prov directly by phone or text at (801) 733 4455.
- User friendly testing platform: Prov’s computer based exams are designed for ease of use, with no special technical skills required.
DLCP’s partnership with Prov reflects our commitment to delivering a modern, efficient, and supportive licensing experience for the District’s beauty and personal services professionals.
Modernizing Licensing and Registration for a Better Customer Experience
The Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) is introducing the DC Bridge Project, a major technology upgrade that will merge multiple agency databases into one unified platform. This new system will streamline processes, reduce administrative steps, and make it easier for customers to apply for and manage their business licenses.
What is the Bridge Project?
The Bridge Project is a modernization initiative designed to bring DLCP’s registration and licensing systems together. By creating a single platform, customers will have clearer and more efficient experience when completing business transactions with the agency.
What’s Changing?
New APIs and fewer document uploads
The system will reduce the number of documents customers need to submit by allowing information to move more easily between DLCP and partner systems.
Stronger connections between employer and employee records
Business and employee information will be more closely linked, improving accuracy and reducing duplicate data entry.
One platform for registration and licensing
Customers will be able to access corporate registration and licensing services including BBL, Special Events, Weights and Measures, and Vending in one place.
Ability to amend a BBL application during an active license period
Businesses will be able to make updates to their license applications without waiting for renewal.
Notifications for critical requirements
The system will alert customers when items such as insurance certificates or bonds are approaching noncompliance.
Seamless updates from corporate registration to licensing records
Changes made to registered corporate information will automatically update the corresponding business license record.
Comprehensive customer dashboard
Users will have a clearer view of their license status, outstanding requirements, and upcoming deadlines.
New DC focused license design
Licenses will feature a refreshed, District centered look.
What This Means for Customers
The Bridge Project will create a more integrated and user-friendly experience for District businesses by simplifying how customers interact with DLCP’s licensing and registration services.
Stay Informed
Visit dlcp.dc.gov for updates on the Bridge Project and follow DLCP on social media to stay informed about upcoming changes and resources.
DLCP announces that the application period for temporary firework stand licenses will open on May 15, 2026. DLCP will accept applications from May 15, 2026 through June 26, 2026.
Required Documentation Applicants must submit all required materials to be eligible for a temporary firework stand license, including:
The temporary firework sales license fee is $99.00.
All applications must be submitted by June 26, 2026 at 4:30 p.m.
*Late submissions will not be accepted.
DLCP works closely with partner District agencies to ensure applicants comply with all applicable DC Official Codes and Municipal Regulations. Additional documentation or proof of inspection may be requested. Paper applications are not accepted.
Learn more about prerequisite requirements from the Department of Buildings: Firework Stand Permits for New and Returning Applicants
For questions or assistance, contact dlcp@dc.gov or (202) 671‑4500.
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Last month, the Business Resource Center (BRC) hosted Spring Bloom: Financial Literacy Speed Coaching for Your Business at Sycamore & Oak in Southeast DC. The session brought entrepreneurs from across the District together for a morning of hands‑on guidance and direct access to business support partners. |
Attendees participated in focused 15‑minute one‑on‑one coaching sessions designed to strengthen financial literacy, expand knowledge of funding pathways, and provide clarity on licensing, compliance, and business growth strategies. Participants also connected with advisors from DC government agencies, financial institutions, and community‑based organizations. |
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As we move into May, the BRC continues to provide practical tools and learning opportunities for District entrepreneurs. This month’s schedule includes workshops, coaching sessions, and resource events designed to support business owners at every stage.
We encourage you to review the full May BRC event schedule below and register for the sessions that best support your business goals.
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On Thursday, April 9, the DC Chamber of Commerce hosted its inaugural Future‑Ready Forum: Talent, Technology and Opportunity at Gallup in Northwest DC. The morning event brought together business leaders, government agencies, educators, and workforce partners to discuss how professionals can prepare for the future of work.
DLCP Director Tiffany Crowe was among the featured speakers, presenting new findings from the agency’s recent AI survey of licensees citywide. The survey received 701 responses, offering a snapshot of how professionals across the District are using emerging technologies.
Her presentation highlighted DLCP’s commitment to understanding how technology is reshaping professional practice and how the District can support responsible innovation.
The Chamber’s inaugural Future‑Ready Forum was a success, and DLCP’s participation contributed to a broader discussion on technology, workforce readiness, and consumer protection
DLCP successfully hosted the 2026 DC Board of Professional Engineers Practitioners’ Forum on Tuesday, April 6, at DLCP. This in‑person event offered attendees three DC continuing education credits and brought together engineering professionals from across the District for a morning of learning, collaboration, and practical skill‑building.
Participants gained insights into topics essential to today’s engineering landscape, including effective legal and risk‑management practices, best‑in‑class approaches to property research using DC GIS tools, and strategies for maintaining integrity and compliance within regulated professions. The forum also provided space for discussion, peer learning, and direct engagement with subject‑matter experts.
DLCP appreciates the strong turnout and the active participation from the engineering community. Thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to a successful and informative session.
On March 13, 2026, Council Chairman Phil Mendelson introduced the Short-Term Rental Regulation Amendment Act of 2026 (B26-0647) at the request of the Mayor! The bill would enhance the District’s short-term rental program by:
- Creating new opportunities for District residents to participate in the program, including:
- Allowing renters and those who own a second property in the District to obtain a short-term rental license; and
- Creating a Short-Term Rental: Special Event endorsement that allows hosts to operate a residence as a short-term rental during a special event; and
- Protecting District residents and transient guests staying at short-term rentals by:
- Prohibiting applicants whose short-term rental license was revoked from obtaining a new license for two years; and
- Curtailing the number of unlicensed short-term rental properties that are advertised on booking services platforms.
The bill has been assigned to the Committee on Public Works and Operations and the Committee of the Whole and is awaiting a hearing. Read the press release on the DLCP website to learn more about the bill!
On March 27, 2026, the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking - Amending 17 DCMR Ch. 37 -Barber and Cosmetology Licensing Reform was published in the DC Register! The rulemaking would improve the barber and cosmetology profession by:
- Reducing the barriers to licensure for barbers and cosmetologists by:
- Reducing the number of training hours required to obtain a barber or cosmetology license from 1,500 hours to 1,250 hours;
- Amending the requirements for obtaining an instructor’s license; and
- Eliminating the manager’s license requirement; and
- Updating the rules to align with the growing trends in the beauty industry by:
- Creating two new cosmetology licenses - wax technician and wax and nails
technician license; and
- Amending the braider license by renaming it “natural hairstylist and braider”
and revising the training hours to 200 hours.
The Director will take final rulemaking action to adopt these rules 30 days after the March 27th publication in the DC Register. Visit here for more information on the Board of Barber and Cosmetology or to apply for a license.
On March 31, 2026, the following two DLCP-related bills passed second reading in the Council and have been sent to Mayor Bowser for review:
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Seasonal Pricing and Price Gouging Amendment Act of 2026 (B26-0049), which updates the District’s price gouging law to (i) allow for alternative calculations of the normal average retail price for rental vehicles and hotel rooms and (ii) prohibit the stockpiling of certain goods in natural disasters and public emergencies and price gouging in public health emergencies; and
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Architect and Engineer Good Samaritan Amendment Act of 2025 (B26-0173), which, absent gross negligence or willful misconduct, limits the civil liability of professional engineers, licensed architects, and professional land surveyors who render assistance during an emergency. An amendment to the bill added professional land surveyors to those professionals protected, at the recommendation of Director Crowe in her written testimony on the bill.
On April 3, 2026, DLCP and the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) published the Notice of Final Rulemaking - Amending 6 DCMR Ch. 11 -Special Private Officers in the DC Register! The rulemaking updates the general provisions regarding MPD special police officers and special privates. It also establishes the eligibility and training requirements for special police officers and eligibility requirements for MPD special privates. The rules were adopted as final by Director Crowe and the MPD Chief on March 11, 2026, after the rulemaking was sent to the Council for a 45-day period of review, which expired on February 18, 2026. The rules became effective upon the April 3rd publication in the DC Register.
Contact DLCP via email, or our online inquiry form at any time. We’re also available through the live chat on dlcp.dc.gov or by phone at 202-671-4500 during normal business hours.
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