Texas Cosmetologist to Class A Barber License Requirements
The shortened route for someone already licensed in the other trade. 300 hours instead of 1,000, and the reason it exists.
300
Course hours
$50
Application fee
2 yrs
Licence term
17
Minimum age
What TDLR requires
- Hold a current, active Texas Cosmetology Operator licence in good standing — it must stay that way throughout.
- Complete a 300-hour Class A Barber course at a licensed school. Not the full 1,000 — your cosmetology training carries.
- Pass the PSI written exam after the coursework, then the practical after all hours.
- This is the crossover route. Someone licensed in another state uses the out-of-state equivalence route instead.
Next steps
Sourced from TDLR's own application page — Cosmetologist to Class A Barber. Requirements change; confirm against the Department before you apply or pay anything. Read it at tdlr.texas.gov
Other Texas licence guides
Common Questions
How many hours do you need for a Texas cosmetologist to class a barber licence?
300 hours of instruction at a school licensed in Texas.
How much does a Texas cosmetologist to class a barber licence cost?
$50 to apply, non-refundable, and the licence is valid two years from the date of issue.
How long is a Texas cosmetologist to class a barber licence valid?
Two years from the date of issue, then it renews on a two-year cycle.
Does my existing licence have to stay active?
Yes — current, active and in good standing throughout the process. If it lapses mid-crossover you lose the shortened route.