Nail Salon Permit Requirements in El Paso, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in El Paso, El Paso County, Texas.

Updated 2026-02-15 7 stops $350–$1,300 est. 4–8 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

2 stops

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

  2. OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Compliance

    Nail salons handle hazardous chemicals. OSHA requires Safety Data Sheets, employee training, and adequate ventilation (29 CFR 1910.1200).

    Official government source

    Free (compliance requirement)Implement before opening

State of Texas

3 stops

  1. Texas Cosmetology Salon License (Nail Salon Establishment)

    All nail salons in Texas must obtain a Cosmetology Salon License from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). The application requires proof of a fixed business location, an inspection by TDLR, and compliance with Texas Administrative Code Chapter 83. The salon must meet ventilation, sanitation, and equipment standards before a license is issued.

    Official government source

    $75 application fee + $50 inspection fee2–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)

  2. Individual Nail Technician License (per employee)

    Every nail technician working in the salon must hold a valid Texas Nail Technician License issued by TDLR. This requires 600 hours of education from an accredited cosmetology school, passing a written and practical exam.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee per technician4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

  3. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Required for selling retail products in your salon. The combined tax rate in El Paso is 8.25%. Apply through the Texas Comptroller's eSystems portal.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of El Paso / El Paso County

2 stops

  1. City of El Paso Certificate of Occupancy

    Nail salons must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from the City of El Paso Development Services Department confirming the space is approved for personal services use. El Paso does not have a general business license requirement, so the CO is the primary city permit. Contact El Paso Development Services at 915-212-0000.

    Official government source

    $150–$600 (varies by scope of work)2–5 weeks

  2. El Paso County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

    Required if operating under a trade name other than your legal name. Filed with the El Paso County Clerk.

    Official government source

    $24Same day to 1 week

Terminus

Open for business — est. $350–$1,300 · 4–8 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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