Apply for a New Establishment License
Application and Fee
To apply for a license, submit a completed application form along with the non-refundable fee.
You must provide detailed information of all business owners on the application form as well as information about how your business ownership is structured (e.g. sole proprietorship, corporation, etc.).
Applying online for a new license from TDLR is easy and secure. Online applications are immediately sent to the Licensing Division for processing and don’t have to go through additional departments for sorting and payment processing.
If an online application is available, you are strongly encouraged to apply online.
Establishment licenses are valid for two years from the date of issue.
All requirements must be met within one year of the date the application is received, or the application will be deemed void.
For mobile establishments, please see the apply for a mobile establishment page.
Leasing Space
Gallery Establishment Owners
An establishment that rents space to mini-establishments is referred to as a "gallery establishment."
Establishments may lease space to any mini-establishment licensee or individual practitioner who holds a valid barbering or cosmetology license in Texas.
If you choose to lease space in your establishment, you must include a completed Independent Contractor List (PDF) with your application materials.
Establishments that lease space are responsible for maintaining all common areas.
Mini-Establishment License Holders
A Mini-Establishment must be located inside a licensed full-service establishment or a specialty establishment that contains rooms available to be used for barbering or cosmetology services. A Mini-Establishment must meet the same requirements as other establishment types.
Required Equipment
Establishment owners are responsible for providing certain equipment for use by customers and the practitioners who provide services. Please see the required equipment for establishments page for complete details.
Operational Requirements
Establishment owners will be responsible for understanding and complying with all relevant sections of the law and administrative rules, including:
Also see the inspections guide page for specific items that TDLR inspectors will look for when inspecting an establishment.
Prohibited Uses
Licensed premises may not be used for living or sleeping purposes, or any other purpose that would tend to make the premises unsanitary, unsafe, or endanger the health and safety of the public.
An establishment that is attached to a residence must have an entrance that is separate and distinct from the residential entrance. Any door between a residence and a licensed facility must be closed during business hours.