Texas Esthetician License Requirements: Hours, Exams & TDLR Process
Everything licensed professionals and aspiring skin care practitioners need to know — 750 school hours, two PSI exams, TDLR application steps, and costs — all in one guide. Updated for 2026.
To get a Texas esthetician license, complete 750 hours at a TDLR-approved school, pass a written and practical exam through PSI, and submit an application to TDLR. You must be at least 17 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
What Is a Texas Esthetician License?
In Texas, anyone performing skin care services professionally — facials, chemical peels, hair removal, or exfoliation — must hold a TDLR-issued esthetician license. Operating without one violates the Texas Occupations Code and can result in fines or business closure.
Texas Esthetician License Requirements Summary
Before diving into each step, here is a complete overview of what TDLR requires to obtain a Texas esthetician license in 2026.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 17 years old |
| Education | High school diploma, GED, or current high school enrollment |
| School Hours | 750 clock hours from a TDLR-approved cosmetology school |
| Written Exam | PSI Exams — Texas Esthetician written test (English, Spanish & Vietnamese available) Fee: $55 · Passing score: 70% · 75 scored questions |
| Practical Exam | PSI Exams — Texas Esthetician clinical/practical test Fee: $76 · Passing score: 70% · Live model required |
| TDLR Application Fee | $50 (non-refundable) Paid to TDLR after passing both exams |
| Total Exam + App Fees | $181 $55 written + $76 practical + $50 TDLR application |
| License Validity | 2 years — renewal required before expiration Renewal fee: $53 · 4 CE hours required (2 hours if licensed 15+ years) |
| Issued By | Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) |
How to Get Your Texas Esthetician License
Follow these six steps from eligibility check through license issuance. Missing any step will delay your application — read each one carefully.
Confirm Basic Eligibility
Before enrolling in school, candidates must meet TDLR's baseline requirements:
- Age: At least 17 years old at time of application
- Education: High school diploma, GED, or proof of current enrollment
- Background: TDLR may review criminal history — submit a pre-application if applicable
Enroll in a TDLR-Approved Esthetician Program
All 750 hours must be completed at a TDLR-approved school. The curriculum covers skin anatomy, facial treatments, chemical peels, hair removal, sanitation, and Texas laws. Programs run approximately 6–12 months depending on full-time vs. part-time enrollment.
Complete 750 Hours & Obtain Your Certificate
Upon completing the program, the school issues a Certificate of Completion. This document is required for your TDLR application. Confirm with your school before graduation that all hours are properly recorded — documentation delays are among the most common reasons license applications stall.
Apply for a TDLR Esthetician License
Submit your application online through TDLR's licensing portal. You'll need:
- Government-issued photo ID (proof of age)
- Proof of education (diploma, GED, or enrollment documentation)
- Certificate of Completion from your approved school
- Payment of the TDLR application fee
Once TDLR approves the application, you receive authorization to schedule your exams.
Pass Both PSI Licensing Exams
Texas requires two separate exams through PSI Exams, TDLR's contracted testing provider:
- Written Exam: Tests skin care theory, Texas cosmetology law, and safety protocols. Available in English and Spanish.
- Practical Exam: Hands-on assessment of technique and safety. May require a live model — confirm current requirements with PSI before your test date.
Testing centers are available in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, and other Texas cities.
Receive Your License & Begin Practicing
After passing both exams, TDLR issues your esthetician license — valid for 2 years. Keep a digital and physical copy. Texas law requires you to display your license at the salon or spa where you work.
Licensing Costs & Keeping Your License Active
Getting licensed involves upfront costs — and maintaining your license requires CE every two years. Here's what to expect for both.
Estimated Licensing Costs
Renewal & CE Requirements
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License Expires Every 2 Years
Your Texas esthetician license must be renewed before the expiration date to continue practicing legally.
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CE Hours Required at Renewal
License holders must complete TDLR-approved continuing education hours before renewing. [Confirm exact CE hour count.] Online CE is permitted.
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Expired License = Extra Fees & Steps
If a license lapses before renewal is completed, additional reinstatement fees and paperwork may apply. Don't wait until the last minute.
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Complete CE Online with txcosmetologyce.com
TDLR-Approved Provider #2512. Complete all required CE hours from anywhere in Texas. Enroll today →
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions Texas estheticians ask most about the licensing process.
Ready to Complete Your Texas Esthetician CE Hours?
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