Photography Business Permit Requirements in Dallas, TX

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

$25 -- $400 1–2 weeks for all registrations (longer if drone certification needed) 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Dallas / Dallas County Requirements

2 requirements
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.

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

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

Texas State Requirements

2 requirements
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.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source
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.

N/AN/A
Official government source

Federal Requirements

2 requirements
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.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source
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.

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

Official Sources

Get your personalized permit checklist

Find out exactly which permits and licenses your photography business needs in Dallas, TX — with costs, timelines, and official links.

Get Your Permit Report — $9.99
Ready in ~60 seconds Secure payment via Stripe Official links & citations

Related Guides

Stop guessing about permits

Know exactly what permits your business needs

Get a personalized permit report with every license, registration, and permit required for your business — with costs, timelines, and official application links.

Get Your Permit Report — $9.99
Ready in ~60 seconds Secure payment via Stripe 50 states, 4,000+ jurisdictions