License Reciprocity—Your Fast-Track to Texas!
If you’re already a licensed cosmetologist in California, Texas has a reciprocity program that allows you to transfer your license without going through the entire licensing process again. However, there are a couple of conditions:
- Your California cosmetology license must be active and current
- You need to have held your license for at least one year
Does that sound like you? Great! Here’s what you need to do next.
What Documents Do You Need?
Before you can pack your bags for Texas, you’ll need to gather a few important documents:
- A copy of your current and active California Cosmetology license
- A letter of certification from the California state agency that issued your license (this must be sealed)
- Official transcript of hours from the cosmetology school where you trained (also sealed), or a certificate of completion from the apprenticeship program where you received your training
How to Apply
Once you’ve gathered all your documents, it’s time to apply for your Texas license. Here’s how to do it:
Fill out the Cosmetology License by Reciprocity Application Form.
Include a $100 non-refundable application fee (paid by money order or cashier’s check).
Mail everything to:
TDLR
P.O. Box 12157
Austin, TX 78711-2157
Make sure you send all your documents together to avoid delays. If California sends the letter of certification directly to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), send your other materials separately.
What If My License Is Expired?
If your California cosmetology license has expired, don’t worry! You have two options:
- Renew Your California License – This is the easiest route. Renew it, then follow the regular reciprocity process.
- Skip the Renewal – If you prefer not to renew, you can still apply for a Texas license, but you may need to:
-
- Take the Texas cosmetology written and practical exams
- Complete additional training at a Texas cosmetology school, if required
If you choose the second option, TDLR will review your education and experience to determine what extra steps are necessary.
Documents for Expired License Holders
Here’s what you’ll need to apply:
- A copy of your inactive California license
- A letter of certification from the California state agency that issued your license (sealed)
- Official transcript of hours from your cosmetology school (also sealed)
Next, submit a Cosmetology Transcript Evaluation Form (no fee required) to start the review process. Depending on the results, you may need to take exams or additional courses to qualify for a Texas license.
What If I Haven’t Held My License for a Year?
If you’re newly licensed and haven’t yet held your license for a full year, you’ve got two choices:
- Wait until you’ve had your license for a year (a slower but simple option).
- Take the Texas licensing exams and get your license that way.
For the second option, you’ll need the same documents as the reciprocity process:
- A copy of your current California license
- A letter of certification (sealed)
Your official transcript of hours (sealed)
Fill out a License by Examination Application, pay the necessary exam fees, and submit your documents. Once your materials are reviewed, you’ll be notified by mail about the next steps.
Staying Compliant in Texas
After you’ve successfully transferred your license, you’ll need to keep it active by renewing your Texas Cosmetology License every two years. To do this, you’ll need to complete a 4-hour Cosmetology Continuing Education (CE) course, which can be done online through providers like Coursemax. For more detailed information about the renewal process, read our Texas Cosmetology License Renewal Guide.
Whether you’re moving for family, new opportunities, or a fresh start, transferring your cosmetology license from California to Texas doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these steps, you’ll be back to styling, coloring, and pampering clients in no time. And don’t forget, Coursemax is here to help with your continuing education needs to keep you licensed and ready for success in Texas!
