Cosmetology License Renewal in Texas (2026)

Cosmetology license renewal in Texas is handled by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Barbering and Cosmetology program, which requires Cosmetologists to renew every 24 months. Below are the renewal deadline rule, continuing-education (CE) hours, fees, and a direct link to the official renewal page — last verified 2026-06-01. This is an unofficial guide; always confirm the details with the board before you file.

Texas Cosmetology renewal at a glance

Renewal cycle24 months
Deadline ruleA Cosmetology Operator license is valid for two years from the date of issue and must be renewed by its expiration date. TDLR sends a renewal notice roughly 60 days before expiration, but non-receipt does not excuse late fees. A license expired more than three years cannot be renewed and the applicant must re-meet initial licensure requirements.
CE hours required4 hours
Renewal fee$50.00
Online renewalYes
Governing bodyTexas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Barbering and Cosmetology program

Go to the official Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Barbering and Cosmetology program renewal page →

Last verified 2026-06-01 from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Barbering and Cosmetology program. automated research workflow (official texas cosmetology board), confidence high.

Continuing-education requirements for Cosmetologys in Texas

Cosmetology Operators must complete 4 hours of TDLR-approved continuing education every two-year cycle, including 1 hour of sanitation and 1 hour of human trafficking awareness, plus 2 hours from approved topics (e.g., Texas barbering/cosmetology law and rules, sanitation, mental health awareness). Licensees who have held a Texas license for 15+ years need only 2 hours total (the 1-hour sanitation and 1-hour human trafficking awareness components).

Need approved hours? Compare Texas Cosmetology CE courses (some links are affiliate links).

How to renew your Cosmetology license in Texas

  1. Confirm your renewal deadline and current status on the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Barbering and Cosmetology program portal.
  2. Complete the required 4 CE hours.
  3. Submit the renewal application and pay the current fee online.
  4. Keep proof of CE and your renewal confirmation for your records.
Good to know: Texas regulates cosmetology through TDLR, not a standalone cosmetology board. The standard individual cosmetologist credential is the "Cosmetology Operator" license. Late renewal fee is $75 if expired less than 18 months and $100 if expired 18 months to 3 years; the $75 figure is reported in late_fee_usd. CE reporting is handled by the approved CE provider (filed electronically within 7 days); TDLR provides a Continuing Education Course Look Up tool rather than using a third-party platform like CE Broker. Fees reflect the schedule effective 09/01/2023.

Cosmetology license renewal in Texas: frequently asked questions

How often do I renew my Cosmetology license in Texas?

Texas Cosmetology licenses renew every 24 months. A Cosmetology Operator license is valid for two years from the date of issue and must be renewed by its expiration date. TDLR sends a renewal notice roughly 60 days before expiration, but non-receipt does not excuse late fees. A license expired more than three years cannot be renewed and the applicant must re-meet initial licensure requirements.

How many CE hours are required to renew an Cosmetology license in Texas?

Approximately 4 continuing-education hours per cycle. Cosmetology Operators must complete 4 hours of TDLR-approved continuing education every two-year cycle, including 1 hour of sanitation and 1 hour of human trafficking awareness, plus 2 hours from approved topics (e.g., Texas barbering/cosmetology law and rules, sanitation, mental health awareness). Licensees who have held a Texas license for 15+ years need only 2 hours total (the 1-hour sanitation and 1-hour human trafficking awareness components). Confirm the current requirement with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Barbering and Cosmetology program.

Can I renew my Texas Cosmetology license online?

Yes — Texas offers online renewal through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Barbering and Cosmetology program. Use the official link on this page.

What happens if I let my Texas Cosmetology license expire?

Practicing on an expired license is generally prohibited and can carry penalties. A late fee of about $75 may apply. Contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Barbering and Cosmetology program promptly if your license has lapsed.

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