A stripping license is a government permit needed to work in an adult entertainment facility as an exotic dancer. Most often, an exotic dancer refers to anyone who participates in striptease-type acts involving dance or similar types of entertainment while removing clothing to eventually appear in a state of nudity or partial nudity for entertainment.

Aside from exotic dancers, in some places, anyone who works in an adult entertainment institution, including the proprietor, is expected to acquire a permit or license. This may include everyone from the bartenders to the deejays, proprietors, security, dishwashers, “house moms,” culinary workers, and any other person that works in the adult entertainment business.

What is the Difference Between an Exotic Dancer and a Stripper?

There is genuinely no difference between an exotic dance and a stripper. They both engage in striptease-type acts involving dance or similar types of entertainment while removing clothing to eventually appear in a state of nudity or partial nudity for payment of money.

Pros and Cons of Being a Stripper

Whether you are thinking of doing this part-time, or want to completely venture into the industry, it is very necessary to beware of the pros and cons of becoming a stripper.

Pros
  • Boosts self-confidence
  • Meeting new people
  • The freedom of choosing your work schedule
  • Maintain healthy body
  • Pole dancing
  • Get enough time to sleep in the morning
  • A significant amount of money
Cons
  • Night shifts
  • You can’t choose your customers
  • Different perceptions
  • Bad influences
  • Stripping is emotionally and physically exhausting

Regulations and requirements tend to vary in different places, but you will mostly be required to get a license if you want to be an adult entertainer or exotic dancer. Have it in mind that the cost of this license will also vary owing to the application method and licensing fee.

Local governments often regulate a variety of adult sexually oriented businesses and services, including movie theaters, bookstores, video stores, adult-only hotels/motels, massage parlors, peep shows, and erotic dancing establishments. Owing to that, it is advisable you first research your local requirements.

Steps to Get a Stripping License

If you want to become a stripper and looking to obtain a stripping license in the United States, here are the necessary steps to consider.

1. Find a Club You Feel Comfortable In

There are many ways to seek employment in the strip club market. You can choose to search online, visit TUSCL.net (the ultimate strip club list) for a comprehensive list of venues, or even leverage Yelp to find open opportunities. You can also visit the club in person and meet with the manager or owner.

A good number of clubs will have you fill out a form and even ask to make a copy of your ID. Some may even want you to audition with at least one song on stage. A good number of them charge strippers a nightly fee to work. Strippers are considered independent contractors, so you have to pay “rent” to work. The club’s house fees will vary based on the club you work at, as well as the night you work.

  1. Apply for Your License or Permit

The processes and where you have to apply will surely depend on local laws and regulations. However, a good number of cities and local authorities offer various channels to make it easier for individuals and businesses in the strip business. Most often, you will be expected to fill an application form, a General Questionnaire, Affidavit of Lawful Presence, Applicant Criminal History Form, and provide photo ID as well as fingerprints.

In some states, you are allowed to submit and follow up on your application via email, but when submitting your application via email, ensure to attach all documents requested by your local licensing body in one mail. If you can’t send it via email, some places also let you submit your application online and also follow up on the process online or via phone. Ensure to visit your local licensing board for more information.

What are the Qualifications for Stripping?

If you’re looking to strip in the US, you need to be a US citizen who is over the age of 18 or 21, depending on where you live and where you intend to strip. You will also be expected to provide proof that you are a citizen and also have some other forms of identification. In some cities, you even have to get a license and/or fingerprinting to be allowed to work.

How Old Do You Have to be to Start Stripping?

To start stripping in the United States, you are expected to be a US citizen above the age of 18 or 21, depending on where you stay in the United States and where you intend to strip.

  1. Pay the Necessary Fees

The cost of acquiring a Stripping License will surely vary from one location to another. It also varies based on application method and other requirements. For instance, the city of Denver, Colorado requires exotic dancers to get a business license, which runs about $175 with all total fees, and also requires a criminal background check. Fees can be paid with cash, check, money order, or credit card. Checks should be made payable to the agency in charge.

  1. Get Your License

In some places, you are allowed to notify the agency of how you would like your license delivered to you once all the steps noted below have been completed.

  • All documents required for the license are complete and submitted to the office.
  • The background check, if applicable, is accepted and approved.
  • Fees are paid in full.
  • All required examinations, if applicable, are passed.

Once approved, your license or permission is valid for one year, starting from the day the license money was received.

Do You Need A License To Strip In California?

In most places in the State of California, strippers and exotic dancers are expected to carry government-issued identification and a manager will have to be on the premises.

Do You Need A License To Strip In Texas?

Currently, you don’t need a license to strip in Texas, but soon it might be required because Texas lawmakers are still deliberating on ways to crack down on strip clubs. Once it is signed into law, strippers will need to be at least 21 to get the license, and also take a class about human trafficking awareness and reporting.

Government Agency in Charge of Regulating and Issuing a Stripping License

This will surely vary from one location to another because strip clubs are regulated at local levels in the United States. For instance, the Department of Excise and Licenses is also tasked with regulating exotic dancer licenses in the city of Denver, Colorado.

In some other places too, the License and Permit Unit of the Department of Revenue are allowed to regulate a variety of adult sexually oriented businesses and services. These regulations are also expected to be carefully considered in light of the federal and state constitution that guarantees freedom of expression and lawful association.

How to Apply and Get a Stripping Job

To apply for a stripping job, here are steps to be taken

  • Assess Yourself
  • Obtain Your Outfit
  • Audition
  • Pick a Stage Name
What Does It Take to Be a Stripper in Las Vegas?

Here is what it takes to be a stripper in Las Vegas;

  • Sheriffs’ card
  • Be prepared by looking your absolute best
  • Contact clubs to ask about auditions
  • Create a routine that you know inside out
  • Be aware of the private dancer need
  • Stand out from the rest
How Much Do Strippers Make Monthly?

According to industry reports, as of Nov 15, 2022, the average monthly payment for a Stripper in the United States is $3,847 /month.

Tips to Help You Succeed at Stripping Auditions
  • Practice
  • Make your hair and makeup look the part
  • Get matching sets of lingerie
  • Audition early
  • Dance sensually and with confidence
  • Visit the club as a customer