Barber Shop Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX
Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas.
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 stopEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official government sourceFreeImmediate (online application)
Free
Immediate (online application)
State of Texas
3 stopsTexas 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 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)
$75 application fee + $50 inspection fee
2–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site TDLR inspection)
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)
$50 application fee per barber
4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)
Texas Sales Tax Permit
Required for selling retail products. The combined tax rate in San Antonio is 8.25%.
Official government sourceFreeImmediate (online application)
Free
Immediate (online application)
City of San Antonio / Bexar County
2 stopsCity of San Antonio — Development Services Certificate of Occupancy
Barber shops must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from San Antonio Development Services confirming the space is approved for personal services use. Contact San Antonio Development Services at 210-207-1111.
Official government source$150–$700 (varies by scope of work)2–5 weeks
$150–$700 (varies by scope of work)
2–5 weeks
Bexar County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)
Required if operating under a trade name other than your legal name. Filed with the Bexar County Clerk.
Official government source$24Same day to 1 week
$24
Same day to 1 week
Terminus
Open for business — est. $300–$1,100 · 3–8 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
Want this mapped to your exact business and structure, in filing order?
Official Sources
Related Guides
Other business types in San Antonio, TX
- Auto Repair Shop Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX
- Bookkeeping Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX
- Cleaning Service Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX
- Home Daycare Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX
- Dog Grooming Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX