Massage Therapy Business Permit Requirements in Austin, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a massage therapy business in Austin, Travis County, Texas.

Updated 2026-02-15 7 stops $500–$1,500 est. 6–12 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS. Also required to open a business bank account.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Texas

3 stops

  1. Texas Massage Establishment License (TDLR)

    The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) requires all massage establishments operating in Texas to hold a Massage Establishment License. The establishment must employ at least one licensed massage therapist and meet facility requirements including proper sanitation, ventilation, and separate dressing areas. Renewal is required every two years.

    Official government source

    $150 (initial application) + $25 inspection fee4–8 weeks

  2. Texas Massage Therapist License (TDLR)

    Each massage therapist employed at the establishment must hold an individual Texas Massage Therapist License from TDLR. Requirements include 500 hours of approved massage therapy education from an accredited school, passing the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), and a background check. Licenses must be renewed every two years.

    Official government source

    $116 (initial license fee) + $100–$200 (MBLEx exam fee)4–8 weeks after completing education and passing exam

  3. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Massage therapy services are generally not taxable in Texas, but retail sales of products (oils, lotions, gift cards for taxable items) may require a Sales Tax Permit. Apply free through the Texas Comptroller's eSystems portal.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

City of Austin / Travis County

3 stops

  1. City of Austin Massage Establishment Permit

    Austin requires all massage establishments to obtain a Massage Establishment Permit from the Austin Development Services Department. This is in addition to the state TDLR license. The city conducts an inspection of the premises before issuing the permit. All massage therapists working at the establishment must hold a valid TDLR massage therapist license.

    Official government source

    $200–$400/year (fee varies by establishment size)2–4 weeks (application review and inspection)

  2. Austin General Business License (Home Occupation or Commercial)

    Austin does not require a general city business license for most businesses, but commercial locations must ensure zoning compliance. If operating from a home, a Home Occupation Permit may be required. Ensure the commercial space is zoned for personal service use (CS, GR, or similar commercial zoning districts).

    Official government source

    $0 (no general business license fee) to $100 (home occupation permit)1–2 weeks

  3. Travis County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

    Required if operating under a business name other than your legal personal name. Filed with the Travis County Clerk. Valid up to 10 years.

    Official government source

    $24 (plus $0.50 per additional owner)Same day to 1 week

Terminus

Open for business — est. $500–$1,500 · 6–12 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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