TDLR extends emergency licensure for renewals affected by COVID-19-related backlog

keywords: texas,architecture,state,west,building,downtown,capital,government,legislature,state,city,urban

All Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) licensees with a renewable license that expired between August 1, 2020 and May 21, 2021 will be considered to hold an emergency license valid for up to 120 days after their expiration date.

Current license expiration dates will not change, and any late fees accrued will not be waived. All licenses should still be renewed in accordance with their regular expiration dates. The agency will not mail out printed emergency licenses but will post a list of emergency licenses on the TDLR website (https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/emergency-licenses/search.htm).   

TDLR staffers have been working both remotely and in the office since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, but two departments within TDLR have had to cease operations multiple times because employees were diagnosed with COVID or had to quarantine because of COVID exposures. As a result, processing of mailed-in paper applications and renewals has fallen at least two months behind. 

TDLR strongly encourages licensees to renew online using a credit card instead of mailing in a paper form and a check whenever possible, as online renewals are automated and processed within a week of receipt.

Applicants for new licenses should check the TDLR website to see whether their license type allows for original applications to be submitted online. If so, they should apply online and submit documents electronically to help speed up the licensing process.

E-Exams added for Cosmetology Examinations

Starting on March 8, 2021, candidates for the Cosmetology written examinations will be able to choose to take a traditional written examination at one of 22 PSI site locations across Texas or to take an examination through a virtual online process offered by PSI. This process, known as e-exams, will provide a faster, safer and more convenient process for candidates to obtain a license from TDLR.

E-exams are conducted in a virtual environment using the test taker’s computer, webcam video and audio to create a secure and controlled testing environment. A remote proctor monitors the examination and ensures the test taker’s identity using sophisticated technology.

To view a demo of how e-exams work, visit https://psi.wistia.com/medias/5kidxdd0ry.

Schedule a Cosmetology examination with PSI

View the Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB) for complete examination requirements and information.

About TDLR

TDLR provides regulatory oversight for a broad range of occupations, businesses, facilities, and equipment in Texas. The agency protects the health and safety of Texans by ensuring they are served by qualified, licensed professionals. Inspections of individuals, businesses, and equipment are done on a regular basis to safeguard the public. Currently, the agency regulates 39 business and occupational licensing programs with more than 1,000,000 licensees across the state. 

Visit TDLR’s website for more information and resources. You can search the TDLR licensee database, and also find past violations in which a final order was issued against companies or individuals. TDLR’s Customer Service line is available anytime between 7 a.m. until 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 1-800-803-9202. TDLR representatives are fluent in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.