Massage Therapy Business Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a massage therapy business in San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $450–$1,500 est. 6–12 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 Massage Establishment License (TDLR)

    The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) requires all massage establishments in Texas to hold a Massage Establishment License. Renewal every two years.

    Official government source

    $150 (initial application) + $25 inspection fee4–8 weeks

  2. Texas Massage Therapist License (TDLR)

    Each massage therapist must hold an individual Texas Massage Therapist License. Requires 500 hours of approved education, MBLEx exam, and background check.

    Official government source

    $116 (initial license fee) + $100–$200 (MBLEx exam fee)4–8 weeks after completing education and passing exam

  3. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Required if selling retail products. Massage services are not taxable in Texas.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

City of San Antonio / Bexar County

2 stops

  1. City of San Antonio Development Services — Certificate of Occupancy

    San Antonio requires a Certificate of Occupancy for any commercial establishment. Massage businesses must ensure the space is properly zoned for personal services. San Antonio also has massage establishment regulations under city ordinances requiring all therapists to be TDLR-licensed.

    Official government source

    $100–$300 (Certificate of Occupancy)2–4 weeks

  2. Bexar County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

    Required if operating under a business name other than your legal personal name. Filed with the Bexar County Clerk.

    Official government source

    $25Same day to 1 week

Terminus

Open for business — est. $450–$1,500 · 6–12 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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