Texas Cosmetology Laws 2026: The Ultimate Guide for Beauty Professionals

Failing to follow Texas cosmetology laws can cost you more than just money—it could lead to fines of $5,000 or more, or even force your salon to close. With the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) conducting unannounced inspections and enforcing strict sanitation rules, knowing the ins and outs of Texas cosmetology regulations isn’t optional—it’s essential for every beauty professional.

Whether you’re an aspiring cosmetologist, licensed esthetician, nail technician, salon owner, or beauty school student, this 2026 guide covers everything you need to know about Texas barbering and cosmetology laws.

Key Takeaways for Texas Beauty Professionals

• TDLR Authority: All cosmetology licenses are regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

• Fines & Penalties: Violating sanitation or licensing rules can result in $5,000+ fines or license revocation.

• Continuing Education (CE) Rules: New CE requirements take effect September 1, 2025, based on your experience.

• Inspections: Risk-based and unannounced—compliance is mandatory.

Understanding the TDLR: Texas Cosmetology Regulatory Authority

The TDLR manages all cosmetology licensing in Texas, prioritizing health, safety, and sanitation to prevent infections, burns, and the spread of contagious diseases.

After House Bill 1560 (June 15, 2021), barbering and cosmetology programs were consolidated, streamlining licensing pathways while maintaining professional standards.

TDLR Contact Info:

• Address: 920 Colorado St., Austin, TX 78701

• Phone: 512-463-6599 | Toll-Free: 800-803-9202

• Website: www.tdlr.texas.gov/cosmet/cosmet.htm

Texas Cosmetology License Requirements

1. Cosmetology Operator License

To become a licensed cosmetologist in Texas:

• Age: 17+

• Education: High school diploma or GED

• Training: 1,500 hours at a TDLR-approved cosmetology school

• Alternatives:

  • 1,000 beauty school hours + 500 hours of related high school courses

  • 300 hours + active Class A barber certificate

2. Specialty License Training Hours

3. State Board Examination

• Written Exam: Must pass first

• Practical Exam: Hands-on skills test

• Application Fee: $50 non-refundable

License Renewal & Continuing Education

All licenses are valid for 2 years. Operating with an expired license can result in fines or suspension.

CE Requirements (Effective September 1, 2025):

• <15 Years Experience: 4 hours total → 1 sanitation + 3 cosmetology topics (includes human trafficking awareness)

• 15+ Years Experience: 2 hours total → 1 sanitation + 1 human trafficking awareness

Pro Tip: Renew 30 days before expiration to avoid late fees and service interruptions.

Salon Licensing & Health Standards

Salon Establishment Types:

• Beauty/Full-Service Salon

• Specialty Salon (nails, esthetics)

• Mini-Salon (room in a salon)

• Dual Shop (barbering + cosmetology)

• Mobile Salon

Note: You can own a salon without a cosmetology license, but all practitioners must be properly licensed.

Sanitation & Equipment Requirements:

• Sanitize all tools between clients

• Maintain separation of clean and dirty implements

• Disinfect foot spas after each use and document for 60 days

• Use clean towels and wash hands before every service

• Required equipment: styling chairs, workstations, covered waste bins, sterilizers

Required Postings:

• TDLR Establishment License

• Practitioner Licenses with photos

• Consumer Complaint & Human Trafficking Awareness Signs

• Sanitation Rules Copy

TDLR Inspections: What to Expect

• Unannounced inspections during business hours

• First visit for new salons: within 3 months

• Risk-based frequency for compliant salons

Common Violations:
❌ Unlicensed individuals performing services
❌ Missing or expired licenses
❌ Improper foot spa documentation
❌ Unsafe chemical storage

Booth Rentals & Independent Contractors

• Must comply with sanitation, licensing, and tax laws

• Salon owners maintain a list of renters with license numbers

License Reciprocity in Texas

Cosmetologists licensed in other states with equivalent requirements can apply for reciprocal licensing, using a certified transcript of hours. Apprenticeship training is not accepted.

Services Not Requiring a License

• Natural hair braiding (without chemicals)

• Makeup application

• Non-cutting hair styling

• Nail art (without cutting)

• Spray tanning

Note: Chemical hair weaving still requires a specialty license.

Medical Spa Considerations

If expanding into medical aesthetics, ensure:

• TDLR-licensed estheticians perform services

• Establishment is properly licensed

• Compliance with Texas Medical Board regulations

• HIPAA-compliant software for patient records

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