Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Austin, TX

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Texas TDLR Cosmetology Establishment License

   Required by Texas law for any business location where cosmetology services (including hair cutting, coloring, and styling) are performed. Issued by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). The license is specific to the physical location and must be renewed every two years. All owners must be listed on the application. The establishment must meet equipment and sanitation requirements set by TDLR.

   Official government source

   $78 (every 2 years)·2–4 weeks after submitting application and passing inspection

   $78 (every 2 years)

   2–4 weeks after submitting application and passing inspection

2. Texas TDLR Cosmetology Operator License (per stylist)

   Each cosmetologist working in the salon must hold a valid Texas Cosmetology Operator license from TDLR. Requires completing a 1,000-hour Cosmetology Operator course at a licensed school (written exam eligibility after 900 hours) and passing written and practical exams. The non-refundable application fee is $50 and the license is valid for two years. Booth renters are responsible for their own individual licenses.

   Official government source

   $50 application fee; renewal every 2 years (renewal fee not verified - needs_review)·2–4 weeks after passing state exam

   $50 application fee; renewal every 2 years (renewal fee not verified - needs_review)

   2–4 weeks after passing state exam

3. Texas Sales Tax Permit

   Required if the salon sells retail products (shampoo, styling products, tools) - tangible goods are taxable. Hair and salon services themselves are NOT subject to Texas sales tax (they are not an enumerated taxable service). The permit is free from the Texas Comptroller via the online registration system.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Certificate of Occupancy

   Required before occupying a commercial space as a hair salon in Austin. Issued by the City of Austin Development Services Department. A new CO or change-of-use permit is required when opening in a new space or changing from a prior use. Salons with chemical services may require additional ventilation review.

   Official government source

   Varies by square footage and scope - confirm with Austin Development Services·2–4 weeks after application and inspection

   Varies by square footage and scope - confirm with Austin Development Services

   2–4 weeks after application and inspection

2. Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate — Travis County

   Required if you operate your salon under any name other than your own legal name. Filed with the Travis County Clerk's Office. Valid for 10 years.

   Official government source

   $23 for one owner (plus $0.50 per additional owner; add $2 per acknowledgment if signed in the Clerk's office)·Same day

   $23 for one owner (plus $0.50 per additional owner; add $2 per acknowledgment if signed in the Clerk's office)

   Same day

Official Sources

• Texas TDLR — Barbering and Cosmetology Establishments
• Texas TDLR — Apply for a Cosmetology Establishment License
• Texas TDLR — Apply for a Cosmetology Operator License
• City of Austin — Certificate of Occupancy
• Texas Comptroller — Sales Tax Permit

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