Texas State Board Exam 2026 Questions and Answers 2026/2027 (Verified Answers)
Texas State Board Exam 2026 Questions and Answers
(Verified Answers)
Aligned with 2026-2027 Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) Standards
Applicable State Licensing Board Rules and Evidence-Based Professional Practice Standards
100 Verified Questions with Comprehensive A+ Graded Rationales
Domain 1: Cosmetology Licensing, Salon Operations, and TDLR Regulations
Initial Salon License, License Renewal, License Display, TAC Compliance, Administrative Penalties, Reciprocity, Enforcement, Facility Requirements,
and Scope of Practice (Q1-Q25)
Q1: Maria plans to open a new cosmetology salon in Houston, Texas, and wants to ensure compliance with TDLR regulations.
According to Texas Administrative Code Section 83.120(a), how many days prior to the planned opening date must she submit her
initial salon license application to TDLR?
A. At least 15 days prior to the planned opening date
B. At least 30 days prior to the planned opening date [CORRECT]
C. At least 45 days prior to the planned opening date
D. At least 60 days prior to the planned opening date
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under Texas Administrative Code Section 83.120(a), an application for an initial cosmetology salon license must be submitted to TDLR at
least 30 days prior to the planned opening date. This requirement ensures that TDLR has sufficient time to review the application, verify compliance
with all salon facility requirements, and conduct any necessary inspections before the salon begins operations. Options A, C, and D are incorrect
because they do not match the statutory 30-day requirement specified in the Texas Administrative Code.
Q2: James, a licensed cosmetologist in Dallas, inadvertently allowed his cosmetology license to expire. He is now seeking to renew
it. Under Texas Administrative Code Section 83.40(c), what is the maximum grace period during which James may renew his
license without retaking the examination?
A. 6 months after the expiration date
B. 12 months after the expiration date
C. 18 months after the expiration date [CORRECT]
D. 24 months after the expiration date
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Under TAC Section 83.40(c), a cosmetology license may be renewed within 18 months after the expiration date without retaking the
examination, provided the renewal fee and a late fee are paid. This 18-month grace period provides licensees a reasonable window to restore their
licensure status while maintaining public protection by requiring payment of both the standard renewal fee and an additional late fee. Options A (6
months), B (12 months), and D (24 months) do not match the statutory 18-month period established by the Texas Administrative Code.
Page 1
, Texas State Board Exam 2026 Questions and Answers 2026/2027 (Verified Answers)
Q3: A TDLR inspector visits a cosmetology salon in Austin and notes that the establishment license is stored in the manager's
office desk drawer rather than displayed publicly. Which of the following correctly states the display requirement under Texas
Administrative Code Section 83.120(b)?
A. The license must be displayed in the manager's office for easy access during inspections
B. The license must be displayed in a conspicuous place in the salon at all times [CORRECT]
C. The license may be stored in a secure location as long as it is available upon request
D. The license must be displayed only in the reception area of the salon
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: TAC Section 83.120(b) requires that a current establishment license must be displayed in a conspicuous place in the salon at all times. The
term "conspicuous place" means a location that is readily visible to clients and the general public, ensuring transparency and accountability. Storing the
license in a desk drawer (as described), restricting it to the manager's office (Option A), or limiting display to only the reception area (Option D)
would all fail to meet the "conspicuous" standard. Option C is incorrect because the regulation explicitly requires continuous display, not merely
availability upon request.
Q4: A salon owner in San Antonio discovers that an unlicensed individual has been performing hair coloring services for
compensation at her establishment. Under Texas Occupations Code Section 1602.002, which of the following best describes the
legal implications?
A. The unlicensed individual may continue providing services if the salon owner provides on-site supervision
B. The unlicensed individual faces no penalties as long as the salon itself is licensed
C. Performing cosmetology services for compensation without a valid license is prohibited [CORRECT]
D. The salon owner may face penalties only if a client files a formal complaint
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Texas Occupations Code Section 1602.002 explicitly prohibits any person from performing cosmetology services for compensation without
a valid license. This prohibition applies regardless of whether the salon itself holds a valid establishment license or whether the salon owner provides
supervision. The law is designed to protect public health and safety by ensuring that all individuals providing cosmetology services have met the
minimum competency standards established by TDLR. Options A and B are incorrect because they provide exceptions that do not exist in statute.
Option D is incorrect because penalties may be imposed by TDLR upon discovery, not solely upon client complaint.
Q5: TDLR conducts an investigation and finds that a cosmetology salon has committed multiple violations of the Cosmetology
Act and TDLR rules. Under Texas Occupations Code Section 160.201 and TAC Section 82.40, what is the maximum
administrative penalty that may be assessed per single violation?
A. $1,000 per violation
B. $2,500 per violation
C. $5,000 per violation [CORRECT]
D. $10,000 per violation
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Under Texas Occupations Code Section 160.201 and TAC Section 82.40, the maximum administrative penalty for a single violation of the
Cosmetology Act or TDLR rules is $5,000 per violation. This penalty ceiling applies to each individual violation identified during an investigation,
meaning that multiple violations can result in cumulative penalties that far exceed this per-violation maximum. Options A ($1,000) and B ($2,500)
represent penalties below the statutory maximum and would be insufficient for the most serious violations. Option D ($10,000) exceeds the statutory
cap and is therefore unauthorized.
Page 2
, Texas State Board Exam 2026 Questions and Answers 2026/2027 (Verified Answers)
Q6: A licensed cosmetologist in Fort Worth wants to move to Oklahoma and practice there. She requests that TDLR send a
certification of her Texas licensure to the Oklahoma licensing board. Under TAC Section 83.22, what must she submit along with
her request?
A. A verbal request and proof of Oklahoma residency
B. A written request along with the required fee [CORRECT]
C. A notarized affidavit and copies of her examination scores
D. An electronic application and her original license certificate
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under TAC Section 83.22, a licensee requesting a certification of licensure to be sent to another state must submit a written request along
with the required fee. This formal process ensures that the reciprocity request is properly documented and that TDLR can verify the licensee's good
standing before transmitting certification to another jurisdiction. Option A is incorrect because a verbal request is insufficient for official licensure
certification. Option C is incorrect because while notarization may be required for some processes, the statute specifically calls for a written request
and fee. Option D is incorrect because requiring the original license certificate is not specified in TAC Section 83.22.
Q7: A TDLR compliance officer visits a salon in El Paso and determines that the salon has been operating without a valid
establishment license for three months. Which of the following enforcement actions is TDLR most likely to take under the
Cosmetology Act?
A. Issue a written warning with no financial penalty for a first-time violation
B. Assess administrative penalties up to $5,000 per violation and issue a cease-and-desist order [CORRECT]
C. Immediately close the salon and refer the case to local law enforcement
D. Require the owner to complete 40 hours of continuing education within 30 days
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under Texas Occupations Code Section 160.201 and TAC Section 82.40, TDLR may assess administrative penalties of up to $5,000 per
violation and may issue a cease-and-desist order to stop unauthorized operations. Operating without a valid establishment license is a serious violation
that warrants prompt enforcement action to protect the public. Option A understates the severity of the violation. Option C overstates the immediate
authority, as TDLR typically pursues administrative remedies before involving law enforcement. Option D describes a remedial measure that may be
appropriate for lesser violations but is insufficient for operating without a license entirely.
Q8: A cosmetology student in Lubbock has completed her 1,500-hour training program and passed both the written and practical
examinations. Before she can begin practicing, what additional step must she complete under TDLR regulations?
A. Register with the Texas Workforce Commission and obtain a tax identification number
B. Submit an application for licensure to TDLR and pay the required fee to receive her license [CORRECT]
C. Complete a 6-month apprenticeship under a licensed cosmetologist in a TDLR-licensed salon
D. Obtain a separate salon establishment license in addition to her individual operator license
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: After completing the required training hours and passing the examinations, a candidate must submit a formal application for licensure to
TDLR along with the required fee to receive her license. This final step officially activates the individual's legal authority to practice cosmetology in
Texas. Option A is unrelated to the licensure process. Option C is incorrect because an apprenticeship is not required after completing the standard
1,500-hour program and passing the exams. Option D is incorrect because a salon establishment license is required only if the individual intends to
operate a salon, not for personal practice as a licensed cosmetologist.
Page 3
, Texas State Board Exam 2026 Questions and Answers 2026/2027 (Verified Answers)
Q9: During a routine inspection, a TDLR inspector observes that a salon is using expired hair coloring products. Which regulatory
authority gives TDLR the power to address this violation?
A. The Texas Department of State Health Services Food Safety Division
B. The Texas Administrative Code governing cosmetology salon operations and TDLR rules [CORRECT]
C. The federal Food and Drug Administration Cosmetology Safety Act
D. The Texas Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The Texas Administrative Code governing cosmetology salon operations and TDLR rules provides the regulatory authority for TDLR to
inspect salons and address violations of product safety and sanitation standards. TDLR has specific jurisdiction over cosmetology establishments and
the products used within them. Option A (DSHS) is incorrect because that agency does not regulate cosmetology salons. Option C (FDA) is incorrect
because while the FDA regulates cosmetic product manufacturing, it does not conduct salon-level inspections in Texas. Option D (OSHA) is incorrect
because OSHA addresses workplace safety broadly, not cosmetology-specific salon regulations.
Q10: A salon owner in Waco is considering adding massage therapy services to her existing cosmetology establishment. Under
TDLR regulations, which of the following is required?
A. No additional action is needed as massage therapy falls under the existing cosmetology salon license
B. The salon must obtain a separate massage therapy establishment license from TDLR [CORRECT]
C. The salon owner must simply add massage therapy to the salon's service menu and notify TDLR
D. Only the individual massage therapists need to be licensed; the establishment license covers all services
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under TDLR regulations, massage therapy is a separate regulated profession from cosmetology, and an establishment offering massage
therapy services must obtain a separate massage therapy establishment license. Each licensed profession in Texas has its own establishment and
individual licensing requirements, and a cosmetology salon license does not authorize the provision of massage therapy services. Option A is incorrect
because it assumes a single license covers multiple regulated professions. Option C is incorrect because merely notifying TDLR is insufficient when a
new regulated service is being added. Option D is incorrect because both individual practitioner licensure and establishment licensure are required for
each regulated profession.
Q11: A licensed cosmetologist in Arlington wants to open a second salon location. Under TDLR regulations, which of the
following statements is correct regarding the licensing requirement for the new location?
A. The existing salon license automatically covers all additional locations operated by the same owner
B. Each salon location must have its own separate establishment license issued by TDLR [CORRECT]
C. A single establishment license can cover up to three locations within the same county
D. The owner may operate the second location for 90 days before applying for a separate license
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under TDLR regulations, each salon location must have its own separate establishment license issued by TDLR. A cosmetology
establishment license is location-specific and cannot be shared across multiple physical locations, even when owned by the same individual or entity.
This ensures that each location can be independently inspected and held accountable for compliance. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they
all suggest that a single license can cover multiple locations, which is not permitted under Texas cosmetology licensing regulations.
Page 4
Texas State Board Exam 2026 Questions and Answers
(Verified Answers)
Aligned with 2026-2027 Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) Standards
Applicable State Licensing Board Rules and Evidence-Based Professional Practice Standards
100 Verified Questions with Comprehensive A+ Graded Rationales
Domain 1: Cosmetology Licensing, Salon Operations, and TDLR Regulations
Initial Salon License, License Renewal, License Display, TAC Compliance, Administrative Penalties, Reciprocity, Enforcement, Facility Requirements,
and Scope of Practice (Q1-Q25)
Q1: Maria plans to open a new cosmetology salon in Houston, Texas, and wants to ensure compliance with TDLR regulations.
According to Texas Administrative Code Section 83.120(a), how many days prior to the planned opening date must she submit her
initial salon license application to TDLR?
A. At least 15 days prior to the planned opening date
B. At least 30 days prior to the planned opening date [CORRECT]
C. At least 45 days prior to the planned opening date
D. At least 60 days prior to the planned opening date
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under Texas Administrative Code Section 83.120(a), an application for an initial cosmetology salon license must be submitted to TDLR at
least 30 days prior to the planned opening date. This requirement ensures that TDLR has sufficient time to review the application, verify compliance
with all salon facility requirements, and conduct any necessary inspections before the salon begins operations. Options A, C, and D are incorrect
because they do not match the statutory 30-day requirement specified in the Texas Administrative Code.
Q2: James, a licensed cosmetologist in Dallas, inadvertently allowed his cosmetology license to expire. He is now seeking to renew
it. Under Texas Administrative Code Section 83.40(c), what is the maximum grace period during which James may renew his
license without retaking the examination?
A. 6 months after the expiration date
B. 12 months after the expiration date
C. 18 months after the expiration date [CORRECT]
D. 24 months after the expiration date
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Under TAC Section 83.40(c), a cosmetology license may be renewed within 18 months after the expiration date without retaking the
examination, provided the renewal fee and a late fee are paid. This 18-month grace period provides licensees a reasonable window to restore their
licensure status while maintaining public protection by requiring payment of both the standard renewal fee and an additional late fee. Options A (6
months), B (12 months), and D (24 months) do not match the statutory 18-month period established by the Texas Administrative Code.
Page 1
, Texas State Board Exam 2026 Questions and Answers 2026/2027 (Verified Answers)
Q3: A TDLR inspector visits a cosmetology salon in Austin and notes that the establishment license is stored in the manager's
office desk drawer rather than displayed publicly. Which of the following correctly states the display requirement under Texas
Administrative Code Section 83.120(b)?
A. The license must be displayed in the manager's office for easy access during inspections
B. The license must be displayed in a conspicuous place in the salon at all times [CORRECT]
C. The license may be stored in a secure location as long as it is available upon request
D. The license must be displayed only in the reception area of the salon
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: TAC Section 83.120(b) requires that a current establishment license must be displayed in a conspicuous place in the salon at all times. The
term "conspicuous place" means a location that is readily visible to clients and the general public, ensuring transparency and accountability. Storing the
license in a desk drawer (as described), restricting it to the manager's office (Option A), or limiting display to only the reception area (Option D)
would all fail to meet the "conspicuous" standard. Option C is incorrect because the regulation explicitly requires continuous display, not merely
availability upon request.
Q4: A salon owner in San Antonio discovers that an unlicensed individual has been performing hair coloring services for
compensation at her establishment. Under Texas Occupations Code Section 1602.002, which of the following best describes the
legal implications?
A. The unlicensed individual may continue providing services if the salon owner provides on-site supervision
B. The unlicensed individual faces no penalties as long as the salon itself is licensed
C. Performing cosmetology services for compensation without a valid license is prohibited [CORRECT]
D. The salon owner may face penalties only if a client files a formal complaint
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Texas Occupations Code Section 1602.002 explicitly prohibits any person from performing cosmetology services for compensation without
a valid license. This prohibition applies regardless of whether the salon itself holds a valid establishment license or whether the salon owner provides
supervision. The law is designed to protect public health and safety by ensuring that all individuals providing cosmetology services have met the
minimum competency standards established by TDLR. Options A and B are incorrect because they provide exceptions that do not exist in statute.
Option D is incorrect because penalties may be imposed by TDLR upon discovery, not solely upon client complaint.
Q5: TDLR conducts an investigation and finds that a cosmetology salon has committed multiple violations of the Cosmetology
Act and TDLR rules. Under Texas Occupations Code Section 160.201 and TAC Section 82.40, what is the maximum
administrative penalty that may be assessed per single violation?
A. $1,000 per violation
B. $2,500 per violation
C. $5,000 per violation [CORRECT]
D. $10,000 per violation
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Under Texas Occupations Code Section 160.201 and TAC Section 82.40, the maximum administrative penalty for a single violation of the
Cosmetology Act or TDLR rules is $5,000 per violation. This penalty ceiling applies to each individual violation identified during an investigation,
meaning that multiple violations can result in cumulative penalties that far exceed this per-violation maximum. Options A ($1,000) and B ($2,500)
represent penalties below the statutory maximum and would be insufficient for the most serious violations. Option D ($10,000) exceeds the statutory
cap and is therefore unauthorized.
Page 2
, Texas State Board Exam 2026 Questions and Answers 2026/2027 (Verified Answers)
Q6: A licensed cosmetologist in Fort Worth wants to move to Oklahoma and practice there. She requests that TDLR send a
certification of her Texas licensure to the Oklahoma licensing board. Under TAC Section 83.22, what must she submit along with
her request?
A. A verbal request and proof of Oklahoma residency
B. A written request along with the required fee [CORRECT]
C. A notarized affidavit and copies of her examination scores
D. An electronic application and her original license certificate
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under TAC Section 83.22, a licensee requesting a certification of licensure to be sent to another state must submit a written request along
with the required fee. This formal process ensures that the reciprocity request is properly documented and that TDLR can verify the licensee's good
standing before transmitting certification to another jurisdiction. Option A is incorrect because a verbal request is insufficient for official licensure
certification. Option C is incorrect because while notarization may be required for some processes, the statute specifically calls for a written request
and fee. Option D is incorrect because requiring the original license certificate is not specified in TAC Section 83.22.
Q7: A TDLR compliance officer visits a salon in El Paso and determines that the salon has been operating without a valid
establishment license for three months. Which of the following enforcement actions is TDLR most likely to take under the
Cosmetology Act?
A. Issue a written warning with no financial penalty for a first-time violation
B. Assess administrative penalties up to $5,000 per violation and issue a cease-and-desist order [CORRECT]
C. Immediately close the salon and refer the case to local law enforcement
D. Require the owner to complete 40 hours of continuing education within 30 days
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under Texas Occupations Code Section 160.201 and TAC Section 82.40, TDLR may assess administrative penalties of up to $5,000 per
violation and may issue a cease-and-desist order to stop unauthorized operations. Operating without a valid establishment license is a serious violation
that warrants prompt enforcement action to protect the public. Option A understates the severity of the violation. Option C overstates the immediate
authority, as TDLR typically pursues administrative remedies before involving law enforcement. Option D describes a remedial measure that may be
appropriate for lesser violations but is insufficient for operating without a license entirely.
Q8: A cosmetology student in Lubbock has completed her 1,500-hour training program and passed both the written and practical
examinations. Before she can begin practicing, what additional step must she complete under TDLR regulations?
A. Register with the Texas Workforce Commission and obtain a tax identification number
B. Submit an application for licensure to TDLR and pay the required fee to receive her license [CORRECT]
C. Complete a 6-month apprenticeship under a licensed cosmetologist in a TDLR-licensed salon
D. Obtain a separate salon establishment license in addition to her individual operator license
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: After completing the required training hours and passing the examinations, a candidate must submit a formal application for licensure to
TDLR along with the required fee to receive her license. This final step officially activates the individual's legal authority to practice cosmetology in
Texas. Option A is unrelated to the licensure process. Option C is incorrect because an apprenticeship is not required after completing the standard
1,500-hour program and passing the exams. Option D is incorrect because a salon establishment license is required only if the individual intends to
operate a salon, not for personal practice as a licensed cosmetologist.
Page 3
, Texas State Board Exam 2026 Questions and Answers 2026/2027 (Verified Answers)
Q9: During a routine inspection, a TDLR inspector observes that a salon is using expired hair coloring products. Which regulatory
authority gives TDLR the power to address this violation?
A. The Texas Department of State Health Services Food Safety Division
B. The Texas Administrative Code governing cosmetology salon operations and TDLR rules [CORRECT]
C. The federal Food and Drug Administration Cosmetology Safety Act
D. The Texas Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The Texas Administrative Code governing cosmetology salon operations and TDLR rules provides the regulatory authority for TDLR to
inspect salons and address violations of product safety and sanitation standards. TDLR has specific jurisdiction over cosmetology establishments and
the products used within them. Option A (DSHS) is incorrect because that agency does not regulate cosmetology salons. Option C (FDA) is incorrect
because while the FDA regulates cosmetic product manufacturing, it does not conduct salon-level inspections in Texas. Option D (OSHA) is incorrect
because OSHA addresses workplace safety broadly, not cosmetology-specific salon regulations.
Q10: A salon owner in Waco is considering adding massage therapy services to her existing cosmetology establishment. Under
TDLR regulations, which of the following is required?
A. No additional action is needed as massage therapy falls under the existing cosmetology salon license
B. The salon must obtain a separate massage therapy establishment license from TDLR [CORRECT]
C. The salon owner must simply add massage therapy to the salon's service menu and notify TDLR
D. Only the individual massage therapists need to be licensed; the establishment license covers all services
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under TDLR regulations, massage therapy is a separate regulated profession from cosmetology, and an establishment offering massage
therapy services must obtain a separate massage therapy establishment license. Each licensed profession in Texas has its own establishment and
individual licensing requirements, and a cosmetology salon license does not authorize the provision of massage therapy services. Option A is incorrect
because it assumes a single license covers multiple regulated professions. Option C is incorrect because merely notifying TDLR is insufficient when a
new regulated service is being added. Option D is incorrect because both individual practitioner licensure and establishment licensure are required for
each regulated profession.
Q11: A licensed cosmetologist in Arlington wants to open a second salon location. Under TDLR regulations, which of the
following statements is correct regarding the licensing requirement for the new location?
A. The existing salon license automatically covers all additional locations operated by the same owner
B. Each salon location must have its own separate establishment license issued by TDLR [CORRECT]
C. A single establishment license can cover up to three locations within the same county
D. The owner may operate the second location for 90 days before applying for a separate license
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under TDLR regulations, each salon location must have its own separate establishment license issued by TDLR. A cosmetology
establishment license is location-specific and cannot be shared across multiple physical locations, even when owned by the same individual or entity.
This ensures that each location can be independently inspected and held accountable for compliance. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they
all suggest that a single license can cover multiple locations, which is not permitted under Texas cosmetology licensing regulations.
Page 4
