Massage Therapy Business Permit Requirements in Houston, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a massage therapy business in Houston, Harris County, Texas.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $600–$1,800 est. 6–14 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Texas

3 stops

  1. Texas Massage Establishment License (TDLR)

    The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) requires all massage establishments operating in Texas to hold a Massage Establishment License. The establishment must employ at least one licensed massage therapist and meet facility requirements. Renewal is required every two years.

    Official government source

    $150 (initial application) + $25 inspection fee4–8 weeks

  2. Texas Massage Therapist License (TDLR)

    Each massage therapist must hold an individual Texas Massage Therapist License from TDLR. Requirements include 500 hours of approved education, passing the MBLEx exam, and a background check.

    Official government source

    $116 (initial license fee) + $100–$200 (MBLEx exam fee)4–8 weeks after completing education and passing exam

  3. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Required if selling retail products. Massage therapy services are not taxable in Texas. Apply free through the Texas Comptroller.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

City of Houston / Harris County

2 stops

  1. City of Houston Massage Establishment Permit

    Houston imposes operating rules on massage establishments under Chapter 28, Article XII of the Code of Ordinances (display of the state TDLR license, sanitation standards), but the city does NOT have its own massage-establishment registration or permit — state licensing through TDLR (Occupations Code Chapter 455) is the operative requirement. The establishment must be staffed by TDLR-licensed massage therapists.

    Official government source

    $300–$500/year3–6 weeks

  2. Harris County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

    Required if operating under a name other than your legal name. Filed with the Harris County Clerk's office. Valid for 10 years.

    Official government source

    $25Same day to 1 week

Terminus

Open for business — est. $600–$1,800 · 6–14 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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