Texas Occupations Code - Guidelines for Barbering and Cosmetology

Authority and Transition Provisions

• Authority: These rules are enacted under the Texas Occupations Code, Chapters 51, 1603, and House Bill 1560.
• Transition Provisions:
  • Hair Weaving Certificate: Valid until expiry or replacement license issued.
  • Barbering Specialty Licenses: Holders can perform services until expiry or replacement.
  • Instruction: Licensed individuals may instruct if holding valid licenses as of August 31, 2021.
  • Barber Schools Exemption: Exempt from classroom separation until license expiration or premises expansion/relocation.
  • School Instruction Approval: Can apply for approval to instruct from September 1, 2023.
  • Establishment Licenses and Permits: Permitted to provide services until license expiry.

Definitions

• Act: Refers to Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1603.
• Barbering & Cosmetology: Defined services under §1603.0011.
• License Types: Includes Class A Barber, Esthetician, Manicurist, etc.
• Establishment: Licensed place for services, includes mobile and mini-establishments.
• Practitioner: Licensed individual performing barbering or cosmetology.

License Requirements

Before September 1, 2023

• Operator License: Requires application, fee, age 17+, high school diploma or equivalent, and completion of 1000 hours of instruction.
• Specialty Licenses: Esthetician, Manicurist, Eyelash Extension, etc., require specific hours of instruction and passing exams.

Examinations

• Eligibility: Completion of required hours, passing written and practical exams.
• Examination Requirements: Must bring necessary tools and wear specific attire.

Establishments

• License Requirements: Obtain rules book, comply with standards, own or rent space.
• Mobile Establishments: Must provide permanent address and meet mobile-specific requirements.

School Licensing and Standards

• School License Requirements: Include health and safety standards, financial stability, and facility standards.
• Inspection and Approval: Schools must be inspected before operation.

Continuing Education

• Renewal Requirements: Includes 4 hours of continuing education.
• Human Trafficking Prevention: Required topic starting September 2025.

Fees

• General Fees: Application, renewal, and other associated costs listed under various sections depending on date.

Health and Safety Standards

• Disinfection and Hygiene: Guidelines on cleaning and disinfecting tools, equipment, and premises.
• Prohibited Practices: Certain products and actions not allowed, like MMA and certain callus shavers.

Curriculum Standards (Before and After August 1, 2023)

• Operator Curricula: Include hair care, nail care, and skin care.
• Specialist Curricula: Detailed standards for Esthetician, Manicurist, Eyelash Extensions, etc.
• Distance Education: Limits on hours that can be completed online.

Additional Responsibilities

• Practitioner Responsibilities: Must work in licensed facilities, display licenses, maintain standards.
• Establishment Responsibilities: Compliance with health standards, facility requirements.
• School Responsibilities: Maintain student records, comply with education standards.

Licensing by Substantial Equivalence

• Provisional Licenses: Allows practice pending full licensure for out-of-state or international practitioners with equivalent credentials.

Administrative Sanctions and Penalties

• Violations: Subject to administrative sanctions and penalties according to specific Texas Occupation Codes.