Photography Business Permit Requirements in Dallas, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a photography business in Dallas, Dallas County, Texas.

Updated 2026-03-12 6 stops $25–$400 est. 1–2 weeks for all registrations (longer if drone certification needed)
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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

2 stops

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Useful for opening a business bank account and filing taxes. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

  2. FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (Drone Photography)

    Required for commercial aerial photography using unmanned aircraft systems (drones). Must pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test at an FAA-approved testing center. Operating commercially without this certificate is a federal violation subject to civil penalties.

    Official government source

    $175 (exam fee)2–4 weeks to study and schedule exam

State of Texas

2 stops

  1. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Texas requires photographers to collect and remit sales tax on all taxable sales, including prints, photo books, digital files, and images delivered electronically. The Texas Comptroller treats digital image files as tangible personal property subject to sales tax. The combined sales tax rate in Dallas is 8.25% (6.25% state + 2% local). Apply for free online.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

  2. No Texas State Photography License Required

    Texas does not require a state-level professional license to operate a paid photography business. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) does not regulate photography. No state exam or registration is required.

    Official government source

    N/AN/A

City of Dallas / Dallas County

2 stops

  1. Dallas County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

    If you operate your photography business under any name other than your legal personal name (e.g., 'Deep Ellum Photography' instead of your legal name), you must file an Assumed Name Certificate with the Dallas County Clerk. The Records Building is located at 500 Elm Street, Suite 2100, Dallas, TX 75202. Filing can be done in person, by mail, or through the county's online portal.

    Official government source

    $23 (plus $0.50 per additional owner; $2 acknowledgment fee if notarized by deputy)Same day to 1 week

  2. City of Dallas Film/Photography Permit (Public Property)

    Required for commercial photography shoots on Dallas city-owned public property, parks, or rights-of-way. Issued by the City of Dallas Office of Special Events or Park and Recreation Department depending on the location. Private-location and studio shoots do not require this permit.

    Official government source

    $50–$200 depending on location and duration5–10 business days

Terminus

Open for business — est. $25–$400 · 1–2 weeks for all registrations (longer if drone certification needed)

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Official Sources

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