What Happens If My License Has Expired?
To practice cosmetology in the Lone Star State, you must have a valid and current license. You cannot practice until you renew your license and make it current. If you are found working with an expired license, you will be subject to enforcement actions by the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR), which could include administrative penalties and fines. The steps and requirements to renew your license vary based on how long it has been since your license expired.
Expired Less Than 90 Days
If your license has been expired for 90 days or less, you can renew it by taking a TDLR-approved Cosmetology 4-hour CE course and paying 1.5 times the regular renewal fee.
Expired Less Than 18 Months
If your license has been expired for more than 90 days but less than 18 months, you can renew it by taking a TDLR-approved Cosmetology 4-hour CE course and paying 2 times the regular renewal fee.
Expired Less Than 3 Years
If your license has been expired for at least 18 months but less than three years, you can renew it by taking a TDLR-approved Cosmetology 4-hour CE course and paying 2 times the regular renewal fee. This is subject to approval by the executive director, for which you’ll need to fill out the Request to Executive Director for Expired License Renewal Form (PDF).
Expired More Than 3 Years
If your license has been expired for three years or more, you must apply for a new license and retake the required exams. You can start this process by using the Expired Cosmetology License Application (PDF).
Late Renewal Fees
Below is a table summarizing the late renewal fees by profession type, based on the time your license has been expired. 
Steps to Renew Your Expired License
- Determine How Long Your License Has Been Expired
- Check the expiration date and determine the applicable late renewal fee.
- Complete Any Required Continuing Education (CE) Courses
- Depending on how long your license has been expired, you will need to complete a TDLR-approved Cosmetology 4-hour CE course before you can renew. Check out our TDLR-approved Coursemax Cosmetology CE courses HERE .
- Fill Out the Necessary Forms
- If your license has been expired for more than 18 months but less than 3 years, complete the TDLR-approved Cosmetology Continuing Education first, and submit the Request to Executive Director for Expired License Renewal Form (PDF).
- If your license has been expired for more than 3 years, fill out the Expired Cosmetology License Application (PDF).
- Submit Your Renewal Application
- Log in to your account on the TDLR website and submit your renewal application along with the applicable fees.
- Pay the Late Renewal Fees
- Pay the applicable late renewal fee based on how long your license has been expired.
- Wait for Approval (if applicable)
- If your license has been expired for more than 18 months, wait for the executive director’s approval.
- Display Your Renewed License
- Once your renewal is approved, make sure to display your renewed license in your salon or establishment.
Want to Reach TDLR?
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
PO Box 12157
Austin, TX 78711
512-463-6599 (phone)
512-463-1512 (fax)
https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/barbering-and-cosmetology/
