Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Texas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Texas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$28,370 median (20% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#46 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Texas
With a median salary of 28,370, Cosmetologists in Texas earn 20% below the national median of $35,250. Texas ranks #46 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$28,370Hourly estimate
$13.6420% below national median
Difference: -$6,880
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#46 of 50 statesfor Cosmetologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 58,920 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 52,000 |
| #3 | Vermont | 49,640 |
| #4 | South Dakota | 49,050 |
| #5 | Maine | 48,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
Cosmetologist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $28,370 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $30,680 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $26,450 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $23,470 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $28,150 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
PO Box 12157, Austin, TX, 78711
Phone: 5124636599
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $36,400 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $42,940 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $56,540 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $36,900 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Texas?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Cosmetologists in Texas?
Texas lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Texas?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Texas is 28,370. Salaries range from $22,460 (10th percentile) to $62,470 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Texas earn 20% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 28,370.
How many Cosmetologists work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 22,470 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Texas from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/.