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Barbering, like other forms of cosmetology, is a skilled trade that revolves around helping customers look and feel their best. Specifically focused on men’s grooming services, including haircuts, shaves, styling, and hair and skin care, this trade is ideal for anyone who feels compelled to help others develop and maintain confidence in their appearance. 

In Texas, you must obtain a license from the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (TLDR) Board of Cosmetology to work as a barber. You are also required to renew it periodically. How long is your license valid, and what are the steps to renew it? 

Requirements to Renew Your Barber License 

A Texas barber license expires two years after the issue date. To renew your license, you must complete four hours of approved continuing education (CE) within the two years that it remains valid. 

Qualifying CE must include one hour of coursework focused on sanitation, along with three hours on one or more of the following topics: 

• Any topic listed in §83.202 of the Texas Administrative Code 
• Sanitation standards required under the law and rules 
• Texas barbering and cosmetology law and rules 
• Mental health awareness 
• Human trafficking prevention 

Barbers who have held a license for at least 15 years are only required to complete one hour of approved CE in sanitation for license renewal every two years. The other three hours of CE are waived. 

You are not required to submit proof of CE completion with your application. Your CE course provider is responsible for submitting an electronic notification on your behalf within seven days of course completion.  

However, you must retain proof of completion for your records for two years after the completion date. You must provide this to the TLDR upon request in cases of inquiry or investigation. 

Consequences of Failure to Renew 

If your license expires, you are no longer legally permitted to provide barbering services in exchange for payment. Continuing to practice with an expired license could result in fines of $1,000-$3,500 and/or license suspension for up to one year.  

However, you may still renew within 90 days of expiration by paying the renewal fee and an additional late fee (equal to half the renewal fee) with your application, if you have completed CE requirements. 

If your license is expired for more than 90 days but less than 18 months, you may still renew by completing the required CE and paying the renewal fee plus a late fee equal to the amount of the renewal fee. For a license that’s been expired for more than 18 months, you must petition the TLDR Executive Director for renewal. 

CE Designed for Working Professionals 

The right CE program for barbering professionals will offer state-approved courses and recognize the challenges of working professionals by providing self-paced learning with 24/7 online access. Look for a program that offers an instant Certificate of Completion for your records and daily state notifications on your behalf. 

Is it time to renew your barber license in Texas? Contact RocketCert today to sign up for approved continuing education.