Cosmetology in Texas

TX Dept. of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR)

Texas administers the cosmetology operator exam through PSI for the Department of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR). The written test is 100 scored items in 120 minutes, closed book, with 70% correct to pass. As with its manicurist exam, Texas offers strong language access: the official bulletin confirms the written exam is offered in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Korean, and Simplified Chinese at no extra cost — so a Vietnamese-, Korean-, or Chinese-speaking candidate can sit the real written test in their language. You need 1,000 training hours (a $50 TDLR application fee plus the PSI exam fee) and must also pass a practical exam. Fail and you wait 24 hours before rescheduling.

📋 Exam facts

Real Texas exam administration — from the official source

Practice questions (this site): 600
Testing agency: PSI
Real written-test languages: English · Spanish · Vietnamese · Korean · Chinese
To pass: 100 scored items, 120 min, 70% correct to pass (closed book)
Fee: TDLR application $50 (non-refundable) + PSI exam fee
Retake policy: Must wait 24 hours after a failed attempt before rescheduling
Training hours: 1,000 hours (cosmetology operator)
Exam structure: Written exam + practical exam

Schedule / register ↗Official source ↗

🗓️ Last updated: 2026-07-03

📄 Based on: PSI TDLR Cosmetology Operator License Examination CIB (bulletin 703) + tdlr.texas.gov, checked 2026-07-03

✍️ Reviewed by the PassPrep editorial team · How we verify →

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Jobs and next steps

Can help you move up

Shampooer / Salon Assistant

Shampooer duties overlap licensed cosmetology hair/scalp services; cosmetology is a related licensed next path. Shampooer work is not claimed to satisfy training hours or state eligibility.

Requirements vary by state and locality. Check the authority for where you plan to work.

View Shampooer / Salon Assistant job guide

Why this is linked: Shampooer / Salon Assistant

Shampooer duties overlap licensed cosmetology hair/scalp services; cosmetology is a related licensed next path. Shampooer work is not claimed to satisfy training hours or state eligibility.

varies by state

Official or authoritative source:

Reviewed 2026-08-17

PassPrep is an independent study resource. It is not a government agency, state board, NHA, CTEC, IRS, employer, or testing provider.

State rules and fees change often. This table shows only facts confirmed from an official board or vendor source on the date noted; anything unconfirmed is marked “to confirm.” Always verify current requirements with your state board or its testing vendor before you register. Our practice questions are a study aid and never imply your state offers the exam in a language it does not.