How to Renew Your Texas Cosmetology License in 2026
1. Know Your Renewal Deadline
Cosmetology licenses in Texas must be renewed every two years through the TDLR. You’ll receive a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires, but it’s your responsibility to renew on time whether you get a notice or not
Pro Tip:
Check your license status and expiration date on the TDLR website before you begin.
2. Complete the Required Continuing Education (CE)
Before you can renew, you must complete TDLR-approved continuing education for cosmetologists:
CE Requirements for Most Licensees:
Texas 4 hour Cosmetology CE Bundle for continuing education every renewal cycle (every two years):
- 📌 1 hour Sanitation & Safety
- 📌 1 hour Human Trafficking Awareness
- 📌 2 hours of other cosmetology-related topics
Special Rule (15+ Years Licensed):
If you’ve held your Texas cosmetology license for 15 years or more, you only need the Texas 2 hour Cosmetology CE Bundle:
- 📌 1 hour Sanitation & Safety
- 📌 1 hour Human Trafficking Awareness
Important:
Courses must be TDLR-approved and meet seat-time requirements (typically 50 minutes per CE hour).
3. Choose a TDLR-Approved CE Provider
Select an approved cosmetology CE provider who will report your completed hours directly to TDLR.
- Providers must submit CE reporting electronically within required timeframes.
- Make sure you receive your course completion certificate and retain it for your records (TDLR may request it).
Pro Tip:
Many online courses report CE hours automatically within 24–72 hours of completion.
4. Verify CE Reporting
Before submitting your renewal, confirm that the TDLR has your completed CE hours on file:
- Use the Continuing Education Courses Look-Up tool on the TDLR site.
- If your hours aren’t reflected within a week, contact your provider first.
5. Submit Your Renewal Application
Once your CE is complete and reported, you’re ready to renew your license with TDLR.
🔹 Online Renewal (Fastest Method)
- Visit the TDLR Online Services portal.
- Log in or create your account.
- Select “Renew a License” and choose Cosmetology.
- Enter your license number and required personal info.
- Confirm your CE hours are reflected.
- Pay your renewal fee (varies by license type).
- Submit the application.
🔹 Paper Renewal (Optional)
Some cosmetologists choose to renew by mail:
- Download the renewal form from the TDLR site.
- Fill it out completely.
- Mail it with your payment (check/money order) to the address listed on the form.
Important Reminder:
Renew before your expiration date to avoid possible late fees or penalties.
6. Pay Your Renewal Fee
You must pay the state renewal fee when submitting your application. The fee amount is set by TDLR (typically around $50-$80 for individual licenses).
If your license has expired, additional fees or reinstatement requirements may apply.
7. Receive Your Renewed License
After processing:
- TDLR will issue your renewed license.
- You may receive it by mail or be able to print a confirmation/license from the website.
Processing times can vary, so submit early.
Quick Checklist Before You Renew
- ✅ My cosmetology license expiration date
- ✅ Completed required CE hours (and got certificates)
- ✅ Confirmed CE reporting with TDLR
- ✅ Gathered renewal fee payment
- ✅ Submitted renewal online or by mail
Frequently Asked Renewal Questions
Q: Can I renew after my license expires?
A: Yes, but late fees and reinstatement steps may apply if it’s past the expiration date.
Q: What if my CE isn’t reported?
A: Contact your CE provider — TDLR reports are tied to their filings.
Q: How long are CE certificates valid?
A: Keep them for at least two years in case TDLR requests proof.
Complete all required hours with our TDLR-approved Texas cosmetology CE courses and renew with confidence.
