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Cosmetologists are an important part of the beauty and wellness marketplace. They not only offer expertise in grooming, including hairstyling, makeup, nail care, and other services, but they also help clients to look and feel their best. It’s the convergence of art, science, and caring for others that attracts many professionals to this field. 

Before you can legally operate as a cosmetologist in Texas, you must obtain licensure from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). This requires you to complete 1,000 hours of instruction from a licensed school and pass both a written and practical exam. 

Although this qualifies you to operate as a cosmetologist, you will have to renew your license periodically, or it will expire, leaving you unable to work. What are the requirements to renew your license? What happens if it expires? 

How to Renew Your Cosmetology Operator License

A cosmetology license is valid for two years from the date of issue, after which you will have to renew it. Before you can renew your license, you must complete four hours of state-approved continuing education (CE) and submit proof of completion. 

The first hour must pertain to sanitation laws. The second hour must cover human trafficking prevention, including: 

• Activities commonly associated with human trafficking 
• Recognizing potential victims of human trafficking 
• Assisting victims and reporting human trafficking 

The final two hours of CE should include industry-related topics, such as: 

• Mental health awareness 
• Anatomy and physiology 
• Skin, scalp, hair, and nail diseases/disorders 
• Chemistry (related to hair coloring, chemical waving, and relaxing) 
• Hair care and related theory 
• Skin care and related theory 
• Nail care and related theory 
• Tools and equipment 
• Face and neck massage treatments 
• Customer service and professional ethics 
• Business and management skills 

You could also take additional courses covering human trafficking and sanitation, including bacteriology, sterilization, health and safety, or first aid. There is an exemption for cosmetologists over age 65 who have held a license for 15 years or more; they are only required to complete an hour of sanitation CE to qualify for license renewal. 

The Consequences of an Expired License

If you miss the deadline to renew your license and it expires, you can’t legally operate as a cosmetologist. However, you still have opportunities to renew an expired license. If you submit proof of CE within 90 days of a missed deadline, you will simply have to pay 1.5 times the normal renewal fee. 

Renewing 3-18 months after expiration will entail double the normal fee. After 18 months, you must not only double the fee but submit a Request to Executive Director for Expired License Renewal form. If your license has been expired for three or more years, you must apply for a new license. 

Suitable CE to Renew Your License

Renewing your license is made easier with a state-approved CE course designed for working professionals. The best programs offer the convenience of self-paced learning with 24/7 online access to materials. 

Are you ready to complete the required CE and renew your cosmetology operator license in Texas? Contact RocketCert today to get started.