TDLR summit divided over value of practical state exam as educators, licensees debate safety and access

TDLR convened a summit of the Barbering and Cosmetology Advisory Board and industry stakeholders on Nov. 5, 2025, to discuss the role and format of the state practical exam and related testing policies.

The meeting included a legal overview from Athena Ponce, assistant general counsel for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, who said written exams are required for licensure and must be professionally validated under Texas Occupations Code §1603.252–.255, and that the practical exam is discretionary under §1603.256. "The department, a person with whom the department contracts, a licensed school approved by the department, or a Wyndam school district may administer a practical examination," Ponce said, summarizing the statute.

Tom Foster, manager in the education and examination division, presented a May 2025 survey of 439 respondent schools. Foster said the survey found 77.1% of respondents believed the practical exam provides value and 79.1% said it should remain a requirement for licensure. He also summarized results showing the written exam and practical exam were among the top items schools viewed as critical for maintaining industry standards.

Those numbers framed a…