Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Houston, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in Houston, Harris County, Texas.

Updated 2026-02-15 7 stops $400–$1,500 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 (acetone, acrylics, gel chemicals). OSHA requires maintaining Safety Data Sheets (SDS), employee training on chemical hazards, 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 Houston is 8.25%. Apply through the Texas Comptroller's eSystems portal.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Houston / Harris County

2 stops

  1. City of Houston Certificate of Occupancy

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

    Official government source

    $200–$800 (varies by space size and 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. Valid for up to 10 years.

    Official government source

    $25Same day to 1 week

Terminus

Open for business — est. $400–$1,500 · 4–8 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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