Texas Cosmetology School License Requirements
What it takes to license a cosmetology school license in Texas — the fee, the documents, and what private schools must file that public schools do not.
$580
Application fee
2 yrs
License term
What TDLR requires
- TDLR uses one school application for both trades — barbering and cosmetology schools are not separate licenses. You choose the curricula.
- The $580 fee includes the inspection.
- Private schools: building ownership or a 12-month lease, owner details, and a CPA-prepared financial statement.
- Public schools: curriculum approval applications only.
- One curriculum approval application per programme offered.
- All requirements within one year of receipt or the application is void.
Next steps
Other Texas license guides
Planning to offer an online or hybrid programme? →
Distance education is approved course by course, capped at 50% of total hours, and never covers the practical curriculum. The limits per license, and the five things TDLR requires a school to be able to prove on inspection.
Common Questions
How many hours do you need for a Texas cosmetology school license?
There is no course-hour requirement — a cosmetology school license is a business license, not a training credential.
How much does a Texas cosmetology school license cost?
$580 to apply, non-refundable, and the license is valid two years from the date of issue. That fee includes the cost of the inspection.
How long is a Texas cosmetology school license valid?
Two years from the date of issue, then it renews on a two-year cycle.