Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Dallas, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Dallas, Dallas County, Texas.

Updated 2026-03-12 6 stops $300–$550 est. 4–8 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections
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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 or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Texas

3 stops

  1. Texas TDLR Cosmetology Establishment License

    Mandatory state license for any physical location where cosmetology services — including hair cutting, coloring, and chemical treatments — are performed. Issued by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Tied to the establishment address. Must be renewed every two years. Salon must comply with TDLR equipment and sanitation standards and display the license conspicuously.

    Official government source

    $78 (every 2 years)2–4 weeks after application and TDLR inspection

  2. Texas TDLR Cosmetology Operator License (per stylist)

    Each cosmetologist providing services at the Dallas salon must hold a valid Texas Cosmetology Operator license from TDLR. Requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology school and passing state exams. Renewed every two years. Booth renters are responsible for their own individual licenses.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee; $53 renewal (every 2 years)2–4 weeks after passing state exam

  3. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Required for collecting and remitting Texas sales tax on taxable hair services and retail products. Hair salon services are taxable in Texas. Free to obtain from the Texas Comptroller.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Dallas / Dallas County

2 stops

  1. Certificate of Occupancy

    Required for any commercial hair salon in Dallas before occupying the space. The Dallas Development Code requires a CO for all first uses, use changes, and tenant changes. Applications are submitted through the DallasNow portal along with a Land Use Questionnaire. Hair salons with chemical services require plumbing and ventilation compliance. A signed and notarized Affidavit for Certificate of Occupancy from the business owner is required, along with copies of any state licenses held by service providers.

    Official government source

    $30 base application fee plus plan review; typically $150–$400 total for a small salon2–4 weeks

  2. Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate — Dallas County

    Required if operating the salon under any trade name other than your legal name. Filed with the Dallas County Clerk's Office. Valid for 10 years.

    Official government source

    $22 (approximately)Same day (in person or by mail)

Terminus

Open for business — est. $300–$550 · 4–8 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections

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Official Sources

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