Hair Salon Permit Requirements in El Paso, TX

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Apply free and instantly online through the IRS website.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Texas TDLR Cosmetology Establishment License

   All El Paso hair salons must obtain a Cosmetology Establishment License from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) before opening. The license is specific to the salon's physical address and must be renewed every two years. TDLR will conduct an inspection to verify compliance with sanitation and equipment standards before issuing the license. The license must be displayed prominently at the salon.

   Official government source

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

   $78 every 2 years

   2–4 weeks after application and TDLR inspection

2. Texas TDLR Cosmetology Operator License (per stylist)

   Each cosmetologist working in the El Paso salon must hold a valid Texas Cosmetology Operator License from TDLR. Requires completion of 1,500 hours at an accredited cosmetology school and passing the Texas state board exams. Licenses must be renewed every two years. Independent booth renters are responsible for maintaining their own individual licenses.

   Official government source

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

   $50 (initial application); $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 hair care products. Hair salon services are taxable in Texas. Apply free through the Texas Comptroller's Online Tax Registration Application (WebFile).

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. City of El Paso Certificate of Occupancy

   Hair salons operating from a commercial location in El Paso must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from the City of El Paso's Planning and Inspections Department before opening. The CO confirms that the space meets building code, zoning, and fire safety requirements for personal services use. Apply through the city's One Stop Shop at 811 Texas Ave., El Paso, TX 79901, or contact (915) 212-0105.

   Official government source

   $100–$500 (varies by building size and required inspections)·2–4 weeks

   $100–$500 (varies by building size and required inspections)

   2–4 weeks

2. El Paso County Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate

   If your salon operates under a trade name other than your legal name, file an Assumed Name Certificate with the El Paso County Clerk. The certificate is valid for 10 years. Expedited processing (1–2 business days) is available for an additional $25 fee. Submit in person at the El Paso County Courthouse, or by mail with a check payable to the El Paso County Clerk.

   Official government source

   $20–$25 (first signer); $25 additional for expedited processing·Same day (in person) to 1 week (by mail)

   $20–$25 (first signer); $25 additional for expedited processing

   Same day (in person) to 1 week (by mail)

Official Sources

• Texas TDLR — Barbering and Cosmetology Establishments
• Texas TDLR — Apply for a Cosmetology Operator License
• City of El Paso — City Issued Permits
• El Paso County — Assumed Names
• Texas Comptroller — Sales Tax Permit

Related Guides