Skip to main content

Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Fort Worth, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas.

Verified 2026-08-27 7 stops $350–$1,300 est. 4–8 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
Get my personalized route — $14.99

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Key agencies and fees on this page were re-checked against official government sources on .

Federal — start here

2 stops

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source for EIN (Employer Identification Number) (opens in a new tab)

    FreeImmediate (online application)

  2. OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Compliance

    Nail salons handle hazardous chemicals. OSHA requires Safety Data Sheets, employee training, and adequate ventilation (29 CFR 1910.1200).

    Official government source for OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Compliance (opens in a new tab)

    Free (compliance requirement)Implement before opening

State of Texas

3 stops

  1. Texas Barbering and Cosmetology Establishment License (Nail Salon)

    All nail salons in Texas must hold a Barbering and Cosmetology Establishment License from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), tied to the salon's fixed physical location. The salon must comply with 16 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 83 (Barbering and Cosmetology) ventilation, sanitation, and equipment standards; TDLR inspects establishments for compliance. The application fee is $78 and all requirements must be met within one year of application.

    Official government source for Texas Barbering and Cosmetology Establishment License (Nail Salon) (opens in a new tab)

    $78 application fee (license valid 2 years)2–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)

  2. Individual Manicurist License (per nail technician)

    Every nail technician working in the salon must hold a valid Texas Nail Technician License issued by TDLR. This requires 600 hours of education from an accredited cosmetology school, passing a written and practical exam.

    Official government source for Individual Manicurist License (per nail technician) (opens in a new tab)

    $50 application fee per technician4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

  3. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Required for selling retail products. The combined tax rate in Fort Worth is 8.25%. Apply through the Texas Comptroller's eSystems portal.

    Official government source for Texas Sales Tax Permit (opens in a new tab)

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Fort Worth / Tarrant County

2 stops

  1. City of Fort Worth Certificate of Occupancy

    Nail salons must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from Fort Worth Development Services confirming the space is approved for the use (apply via Accela Citizen Access). Fort Worth does not require a general business license. Contact Development Services at 817-392-2222.

    Official government source for City of Fort Worth Certificate of Occupancy (opens in a new tab)

    Certificate of Occupancy / change-of-use permit fees vary -- see the Fort Worth Development Services fee schedule (fees not published on the CO page)2–5 weeks

  2. Tarrant County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

    Required if operating under a trade name other than your legal name. Filed with the Tarrant County Clerk.

    Official government source for Tarrant County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA) (opens in a new tab)

    $24Same day to 1 week

Terminus

Open for business — est. $350–$1,300 · 4–8 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

Want this mapped to your exact business and structure, in filing order?

Get my personalized route — $14.99

Official Sources

Related Guides