Hair Salon Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

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

   $78 (every 2 years)

   2–4 weeks after application and TDLR inspection

2. Texas TDLR Cosmetology Operator License (per stylist)

   Each cosmetologist working in the salon must hold a valid Texas Cosmetology Operator license from TDLR. Requires completing a 1,000-hour Cosmetology Operator course at a licensed school (written exam eligibility after 900 hours) and passing written and practical exams. The non-refundable application fee is $50 and the license is valid for two years. Booth renters are responsible for their own individual licenses.

   Official government source

   $50 application fee; renewal every 2 years (renewal fee not verified - needs_review)·2–4 weeks after passing state exam

   $50 application fee; renewal every 2 years (renewal fee not verified - needs_review)

   2–4 weeks after passing state exam

3. Texas Sales Tax Permit

   Required if the salon sells retail products (shampoo, styling products, tools) - tangible goods are taxable. Hair and salon services themselves are NOT subject to Texas sales tax (they are not an enumerated taxable service). The permit is free from the Texas Comptroller via the online registration system.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

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

   Fee not published on the CO page; see the DSD Development Fee Schedule (docsonline.sanantonio.gov/DSDUploads/CurrentFeeSchedule.pdf) or call 210-207-1111·2–3 weeks

   Fee not published on the CO page; see the DSD Development Fee Schedule (docsonline.sanantonio.gov/DSDUploads/CurrentFeeSchedule.pdf) or call 210-207-1111

   2–3 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

   $13 (plus $0.50 per additional owner)·Same day (in person or by mail)

   $13 (plus $0.50 per additional owner)

   Same day (in person or by mail)

Official Sources

• Texas TDLR — Barbering and Cosmetology Establishments
• Texas TDLR — Apply for a Cosmetology Establishment License
• Texas TDLR — Apply for a Cosmetology Operator License
• City of San Antonio — Certificate of Occupancy
• Texas Comptroller — Sales Tax Permit

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