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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Texas
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
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 Texas eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,420Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $30,680 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Arkansas | $26,450 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Louisiana | $23,470 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Mexico | $28,150 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Oklahoma | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arkansas | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Louisiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Mexico | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $42,940 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $56,540 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $36,900 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Texas?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Texas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.