cosmetology criminal background
Texas Cosmetology Criminal Background Check: What to Know Before You Apply
TDLR runs a cosmetology criminal background check on every applicant. Prior convictions are reviewed case-by-case — not automatic disqualifiers. Here is how the process works and what you can do before you apply.
Quick Answer
- TDLR reviews cosmetology criminal background records for every initial license applicant
- Prior convictions are reviewed case-by-case — no offense is an automatic disqualifier
- You can request a Criminal History Evaluation Letter from TDLR for a $10 fee before you apply
- The evaluation letter tells you whether your history will affect eligibility before you pay fees
- Renewal applicants with a criminal record are also reviewed by TDLR
How TDLR Handles Cosmetology Criminal Background Checks
TDLR runs a cosmetology criminal background check on every new license applicant. This covers all license types — cosmetology operator, esthetician, manicurist, and more.
No conviction is an automatic bar. TDLR looks at each case on its own. They consider what the offense was, when it happened, and what you have done since.
The review runs after you submit your application. TDLR checks state records and what you report.
If your record raises a question, TDLR will reach out. They may ask for more details. Your case stays open — it just takes more time.
TDLR does not publish a list of disqualifying offenses. Every cosmetology criminal background check is reviewed individually based on the full context of your record.
Request a Criminal History Evaluation Letter First
You do not have to guess. Before you pay any fees, you can ask TDLR to review your record and tell you whether your history will be a problem.
This is called the Criminal History Evaluation Letter. TDLR offers it to anyone who wants to check eligibility before starting the full application process.
Why Request One?
The letter costs a $10 TDLR fee to request — far less than the application and exam fees ($181+) you’d risk if your record turns out to be a barrier. You get a written response from TDLR before you commit that money.
How to Request It
Submit a written request to TDLR along with the $10 fee. Include your full name, date of birth, and a description of your criminal history. You can contact TDLR at (800) 803-9202 or visit TDLR’s criminal history page to find the correct form for your license type.
TDLR will review your record and send a written response. The letter is not a guarantee — but it gives you a clear picture before you invest in cosmetology school.
- Write a request letter with your name, date of birth, and offense details
- Submit it to TDLR before starting your cosmetology program or application
- Wait for TDLR's written response — typically a few weeks
- Use the evaluation to decide whether to proceed with enrollment and application
Criminal Background Checks at Renewal
The cosmetology criminal background review does not stop at your first license. TDLR may check your record again at renewal if new offenses have come up.
Have a new charge since your last renewal? Report it on your renewal forms. The same case review applies.
Lawful Presence Check (May 2026)
From May 1, 2026, all TDLR renewal and new applicants must show lawful U.S. presence. U.S. citizens pass this via their Social Security number on file. Noncitizens can qualify with approved ID documents.
This is a separate check from the background review — but both run at renewal.
Your Next Steps If You Have a Record
A prior record does not close the door. Here is how to move forward.
Start with the TDLR review letter. It costs $10 — far less than application and exam fees. It gives you TDLR’s written view of your case before you pay the bigger fees or enroll in school.
Once you have the letter:
- TDLR says no issue? Proceed with your program and apply as normal.
- TDLR flags a concern? The letter will explain what factors matter most.
For questions, call TDLR at (800) 803-9202. For the full steps from application to license, see Texas Cosmetology License Requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a felony disqualify you from a Texas cosmetology license?
Not automatically. TDLR reviews every cosmetology criminal background case individually. A felony may affect your application depending on the offense type, when it occurred, and your conduct since. Request a Criminal History Evaluation Letter from TDLR before you apply.
What is the TDLR Criminal History Evaluation Letter?
It is a written assessment from TDLR, available for a $10 fee, that tells you whether your criminal record is likely to affect your cosmetology license eligibility. You request it before applying so you can make an informed decision before spending the larger amount on application and exam fees or school.
Does TDLR check criminal background at renewal?
Yes. TDLR may review your record at renewal if new offenses have appeared since your last license was issued. Disclose any new convictions on your renewal application. The same case-by-case review applies.
What offenses does TDLR look at in a cosmetology background check?
TDLR considers the type of offense, when it occurred, relevance to cosmetology work, and what steps you have taken since. There is no published list of disqualifying offenses — every case is reviewed on its own merits.
Can I apply for a cosmetology license while on probation in Texas?
TDLR reviews probation status as part of the case-by-case criminal background review. The best step is to request a Criminal History Evaluation Letter before you apply so TDLR can assess your specific situation in writing.