TDLR launches pilot with San Jacinto College to speed student access to cosmetology and massage licenses

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation announced a pilot program with San Jacinto College that will let the college serve as an authorized testing site and use an agency‑approved practical exam for cosmetology and massage students, allowing graduating students to receive exam results and expedited licensing before or at graduation.

Courtney, the TDLR executive director, described the pilot as a partnership among the college, TDLR and testing contractor PSI. Under the pilot, San Jacinto will host PSI‑administered written exams for eligible students and proctor a cosmetology practical that the college has used internally; TDLR staff said historical pass rates at San Jacinto supported using the college’s practical for this pilot.

TDLR staff said this approach will let students apply for licensure immediately and reduce the months‑long delay students can face between finishing coursework and entering the workforce. The department will run the pilot for at least three semesters, evaluate lessons learned and work with PSI on capacity planning so that May graduation peaks do not create testing bottlenecks.

Commissioners voiced broad support, noting the benefit to students and local employers. The commission voted to continue the pilot program and directed staff to evaluate expansion to other community colleges that request participation. TDLR said staff will return with a summary of lessons learned and any recommended changes to procedures or standards for approving college‑administered practicals.

Why it matters: The pilot aims to reduce time‑to‑licensure for vocational students, easing their transition to the workforce and addressing employer demand in cosmetology and massage therapy.