Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Fort Worth, 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

   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). The license is tied to the establishment's address and must be renewed every two years. The salon must comply with TDLR equipment and sanitation standards, and the license must be conspicuously displayed at the location.

   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 providing services at the Fort Worth salon must hold a valid Texas Cosmetology Operator License from TDLR. This requires completing 1,500 hours at an accredited cosmetology school and passing state board exams. Licenses are renewed every two years. Booth renters are individually responsible for maintaining their own operator 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 products sold at the salon. Hair salon services are taxable in Texas. Obtain the permit free from the Texas Comptroller's office through the online registration system.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. City of Fort Worth Certificate of Occupancy

   Every hair salon operating from a physical location in Fort Worth requires a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) before opening for business. Personal grooming businesses (hair and nail salons) specifically require Building, Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Ordinance permits as part of the CO process. Applications are submitted through Fort Worth Development Services and reviewed for compliance with the city's building codes and zoning regulations. Contact Development Services at (817) 392-2222 or apply through the Accela Citizen Access portal.

   Official government source

   $150–$600 (varies by space size and required inspections)·2–4 weeks

   $150–$600 (varies by space size and required inspections)

   2–4 weeks

2. Tarrant County Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate

   If your hair salon operates under a trade name other than your legal name (e.g., 'Luxe Hair Studio'), file an Assumed Name Certificate with the Tarrant County Clerk. Unincorporated assumed name applications may be partially completed online, but applicants must appear in person to sign and pay. Valid for 10 years from the filing date. File at the downtown Tarrant County courthouse or a sub-courthouse location.

   Official government source

   $25 (approximately)·Same day (in person)

   $25 (approximately)

   Same day (in person)

Official Sources

• Texas TDLR — Barbering and Cosmetology Establishments
• Texas TDLR — Apply for a Cosmetology Operator License
• City of Fort Worth — Certificate of Occupancy
• Tarrant County Clerk — Assumed Names
• Texas Comptroller — Sales Tax Permit

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