Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Houston, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Houston, Harris County, Texas.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $300–$1,200 est. 3–8 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

1 stop

  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)

State of Texas

3 stops

  1. Texas Barber Shop License (Establishment Permit)

    All barber shops in Texas must be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) under the Barbering program. The application requires the shop address, proof of lease or ownership, and an on-site TDLR inspection. The shop must meet sanitation, equipment, and facility standards set by 16 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 83 (Barbers and Cosmetologists — the former Chapter 82 barbering rules were consolidated into Chapter 83 effective Sept 1, 2023).

    Official government source

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

  2. Individual Barber License (per barber)

    Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid Texas Barber License issued by TDLR. Class A Barber License requires 1,500 hours of education at a licensed barber school, plus written and practical exams.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

  3. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Required for selling retail products in your barber shop. The combined tax rate in Houston is 8.25%.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Houston / Harris County

2 stops

  1. City of Houston Certificate of Occupancy

    Barber shops must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from the City of Houston Development Services Department confirming the space is approved for personal services use. Houston does not require a general business license, making the CO the primary city-level permit. Contact Houston Permitting Center at 832-394-8800.

    Official government source

    $200–$800 (varies by scope of work)2–6 weeks

  2. Harris County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

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

    Official government source

    $25Same day to 1 week

Terminus

Open for business — est. $300–$1,200 · 3–8 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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