Hair Salon Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas.

Updated 2026-03-12 6 stops $293–$503 est. 4–6 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections
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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 or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Texas

3 stops

  1. Texas TDLR Cosmetology Establishment License

    Mandatory license from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) for any salon location where cosmetology services are performed. The license is tied to the physical address. Must be renewed every two years. The salon must meet TDLR equipment standards and maintain sanitation practices. The license must be posted visibly in the salon.

    Official government source

    $78 (every 2 years)2–4 weeks after application and TDLR inspection

  2. Texas TDLR Cosmetology Operator License (per stylist)

    Each cosmetologist working at the salon must hold a valid individual Texas Cosmetology Operator license from TDLR. Requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology school training and passing state exams. Must be renewed every two years. Booth renters are responsible for maintaining their own individual licenses.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee; $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 hair services and retail product sales. Hair salon services are taxable in Texas. Free to obtain from the Texas Comptroller.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of San Antonio / Bexar County

2 stops

  1. Certificate of Occupancy

    Required before opening a hair salon in any commercial space in San Antonio. Issued by the City of San Antonio Development Services Department. Required for new tenants, first-time use, and changes of occupancy. Hair salons with chemical services and shampoo bowls require plumbing and ventilation review. Submit via the city's online permitting portal.

    Official government source

    $150 for a Change of Occupancy inspection (covers one re-inspection); additional plan review fees may apply2–3 weeks

  2. Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate — Bexar County

    Required if operating the salon under any trade name other than your own legal name. Filed with the Bexar County Clerk's Office. Valid for 10 years.

    Official government source

    $15–$25Same day (in person or by mail)

Terminus

Open for business — est. $293–$503 · 4–6 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections

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Official Sources

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