6116 - Other Schools and Instruction

When navigating the world of government contracting and business classification, knowing your NAICS code is essential. One such pivotal code is NAICS 6116, which covers "Other Schools and Instruction." This classification plays a significant role within the Educational Services sector, encompassing a wide array of nonacademic instructional services. Whether you are a sports coach, an art instructor, or a driving school owner, understanding NAICS 6116 can help you identify opportunities, comply with regulations, and grow your business.

What is NAICS Code 6116?

NAICS Code 6116 is designated for establishments primarily engaged in providing instruction in various subjects that are not classified under traditional academic education. This means schools and training centers offering specialized, nonacademic, or recreational instruction fall under this category.

Industry Description

Provides nonacademic instruction and training to individuals of all ages.
Covers diverse subject areas such as sports, arts, driving, and other specialized skills.
Excludes businesses primarily involved in academic tutoring, elementary/secondary education, or technical and trade schools (which have their own NAICS codes).

Sector: Educational Services

NAICS 6116 is a part of the broader Educational Services sector. This sector includes establishments that provide instruction and training services but do not offer formal academic programs leading to an academic degree.

Typical Business Types and Activities in NAICS 6116

Sports Instruction Schools: Facilities offering training in sports such as tennis, swimming, martial arts, gymnastics, and fitness classes.
Art Schools: Studios and schools providing lessons in painting, sculpture, dance, music, theater, and photography.
Driving Schools: Institutions teaching driving skills for cars, motorcycles, commercial vehicles, including defensive driving and driver safety courses.

Size Standards for NAICS 6116

For government contracting and SBA purposes, small business size standards generally apply to entities under NAICS 6116. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration:

The size standard is typically based on average annual receipts.
For NAICS 6116, the threshold is $8 million in average annual receipts.
Businesses with revenues below this threshold are considered small businesses, which can qualify for specific government contracting benefits and set-asides.

Examples of Businesses Classified Under NAICS 6116

A local martial arts academy offering karate and taekwondo classes.
An art center providing weekend painting workshops to adults and children.
Driving instruction companies offering behind-the-wheel driver’s education.
Dance studios teaching ballet, hip-hop, or ballroom dance.
Music schools focusing on private instrument lessons and group classes.

These examples reflect the diversity of instructional services under the "Other Schools and Instruction" NAICS code.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can tutoring services be classified under NAICS 6116?

A1: No. Academic tutoring services are generally classified under NAICS codes such as 611691 (Exam Preparation and Tutoring) rather than 6116.

Q2: Are fitness centers included in NAICS 6116?

A2: Typically, fitness centers are classified separately under NAICS 713940 (Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers). However, specialized sports instruction schools fall under 6116.

Q3: How can knowing your NAICS code help my business?

A3: Your NAICS code helps identify contracting opportunities, ensures accurate industry classification for compliance, and assists in targeting markets.

Q4: What if my business offers multiple types of instruction, some academic and some nonacademic?

A4: Your primary business activity determines your NAICS code. If nonacademic instruction is primary, 6116 applies. Otherwise, academic or other sector codes may be more appropriate.

Q5: Is online instruction covered under NAICS 6116?

A5: Yes, if the instruction is in specialized, nonacademic subjects like arts or sports, whether delivered online or in-person, it can fall under NAICS 6116.

Conclusion

NAICS Code 6116 — Other Schools and Instruction — defines a broad category of educational services focused on specialized, nonacademic instruction across arts, sports, driving, and more. Recognizing this classification helps entrepreneurs, educators, and businesses identify their niche within the government contracting landscape and beyond. Whether you run a local art studio or a driving school, understanding NAICS 6116 can unlock new pathways for growth and compliance.

For more information on NAICS codes and how they affect your business, stay tuned to our blog or reach out to your local Small Business Administration office.

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