Texas Cosmetologist License Cost
Every fee the state charges, what training adds on top, and what the same licence costs in other states.
The fees, itemised
These are the state's own charges. Training is the big variable and is listed separately where the state sets a requirement.
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $50 | |
| Total | $50 | before exam retakes |
The state fees are fixed. Training is the part that moves: community college, private trade school and employer-sponsored apprenticeship can differ by thousands of dollars for the same licence.
Cost in other states
| State | State fees | Time | Median pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $125 | 5.8 mo | $46,600 |
| Florida | $95 | 6.9 mo | $39,050 |
| Texas | $50 | 5.8 mo | $38,050 |
Cheapest route we found: Texas at $50. Highest median pay: California at $46,600 — the two are rarely the same state, which is the whole decision.
Sources
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/barbering-and-cosmetology/individuals/apply-cosmetologist.htm“Before applying for a Cosmetology Operator license, you must complete a Cosmetology Operator course consisting of 1,000 hours of instruction at a licensed school.”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/barbering-and-cosmetology/individuals/apply-cosmetologist.htm“There is a non-refundable application fee of $50.”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/barbering-and-cosmetology/individuals/apply-cosmetologist.htm“Cosmetology Operator licenses are valid for two years from the date of issue.”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/barbering-and-cosmetology/individuals/examinations/exam-stats-2025.htm“Operator Written | 10,463 | 10,868 | 21,331 | 49.05%”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/barbering-and-cosmetology/individuals/examinations/exam-stats-2025.htm“Operator Practical | 9,471 | 1,159 | 10,630 | 89.10%”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/barbering-and-cosmetology/individuals/examinations/“You will receive an eligibility email notice from PSI.”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/barbering-and-cosmetology/individuals/continuing-education.htm“You must complete a total of 4 hours of department-approved continuing education courses every two years to renew your license”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/barbering-and-cosmetology/individuals/out-of-state/“If you are currently licensed in another US state, you may be able to apply for a Texas license using your out of state license as proof of your training and experience.”