Texas cosmetology and salon license basics
The individual cosmetology license and the salon license in Texas, summarized from the state board with a link to every source.
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Check before you file. We summarized these rules from each state’s official licensing board in October 2026 and link every source. Requirements, fees and forms change, and cities and counties often add their own license or registration. This is general information, not legal advice.
Texas cosmetology license
Who licenses it: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Barbering and Cosmetology program
| License | Cosmetology Operator license; you must be at least 17, and it's valid for 2 years. |
|---|---|
| Training hours | 1,000 hours at a licensed school. |
| Exams | A written exam (eligible after 900 hours) and a practical exam after all hours, given by PSI. |
Source: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Barbering and Cosmetology program, checked October 2026.
Opening a salon in Texas
An establishment license is required (full-service, specialty or mini). TDLR lists the fee as $78 (checked October 2026).
Barbering is regulated in the same TDLR program.
Register the business
You file Form 205, Certificate of Formation for a Limited Liability Company, online through SOSPortal. Form 205 lists a $300 filing fee (checked October 2026).
Source: Texas Secretary of State, checked October 2026.
You’ll also want a free EIN from the IRS (apply online) and a business bank account.
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Questions people ask
How many hours do I need for a cosmetology license in Texas?
1,000 hours at a licensed school. Confirm the current requirement with Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Barbering and Cosmetology program.
Do I need a separate license to open a salon in Texas?
An establishment license is required (full-service, specialty or mini). TDLR lists the fee as $78 (checked October 2026).
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