How to Choose the Right Continuing Education Course for Estheticians in Texas

Continuing education (CE) is more than a licensing requirement—it’s a critical step toward maintaining professional credibility, advancing your skills, and ensuring client safety. As a licensed esthetician in Texas, choosing the right CE course can influence your license status, client trust, and career progression.  

Continuing education for estheticians in Texas is required to keep your license active and up to date. The TDLR mandates 4 hours of CE, including 1 hour focused on sanitation. These courses ensure you stay current with health standards, new techniques, and industry regulations. In this guide, we’ll explore how to confidently choose approved and valuable esthetician CE courses in Texas that meet both your legal obligations and professional goals. 

Understand Texas Esthetician CE Requirements 

What the TDLR Requires 

In Texas, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) governs the renewal process for all cosmetology professionals, including estheticians. As part of this process, licensed estheticians are required to complete 4 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years to remain in good standing. 

These hours must include the following breakdown: 

• 1 hour dedicated to sanitation and safety, focusing on hygiene protocols, infection control, and health standards to protect both clients and practitioners. 
• 3 hours covering relevant industry content, such as state laws and rules, professional ethics, client communication, or advanced esthetic techniques. 

These requirements are designed to maintain public safety while ensuring estheticians stay updated on state regulations and evolving professional standards. Even experienced estheticians benefit from this refresher, as laws and sanitation guidelines can change over time. 

Failing to complete these 4 hours within your renewal cycle means your license will not be eligible for renewal—and you could risk lapsing into non-compliance. 

Why Approved CE Courses Are Essential 

It’s important to note that not all continuing education courses are created equal. Only courses that are officially approved by the TDLR will count toward your license renewal requirements. 

If you mistakenly complete a course that lacks proper TDLR approval, your hours will not be recognized. This could lead to: 

• A delay in license renewal 
• Temporary suspension of your license 
• Potential penalties or reapplication fees 

To avoid these issues, always verify that your chosen CE course includes: 

• A valid TDLR Provider Number 
• An official Course Number issued by the state 

Reputable CE providers make this information easy to find—usually on their course page, enrollment documents, or completion certificate. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask the provider directly or cross-check the course through the TDLR’s public listings. 

Choosing a TDLR-approved course is not only a legal necessity—it also reflects your commitment to maintaining professional integrity, safety, and compliance in the skincare industry. 

Evaluate Course Providers for Approval and Quality 

Verify TDLR Approval 

A legitimate CE provider will display their TDLR credentials prominently. Before enrolling, double-check that the course: 

• Meets all four-hour requirements 
• Covers required topics (especially sanitation) 
• Is officially approved by TDLR 

A reputable provider will always be transparent about their approval status, and many offer certification immediately upon completion. 

Choose a Flexible, User-Friendly Format 

Busy estheticians need CE courses that work around their schedules. Look for courses that are: 

• Self-paced and available 24/7 
• Compatible with phones, tablets, and desktops 
• Easy to navigate with clear instructions and modules 

These features allow you to complete your CE anytime, anywhere—without disrupting your client appointments or personal time. 

Prioritize Valuable Content That Supports Career Growth 

Go Beyond the Basics 

While compliance is necessary, your CE course should also add value. High-quality providers offer more than the minimum, including in-depth content such as: 

• Updated sanitation protocols aligned with current health standards 
• Texas-specific law education 
• Professional ethics in esthetics 

Look for Advanced Esthetic Content 

Some CE courses include optional or bonus training in trending esthetic services such as: 

• LED light therapy 
• Dermaplaning 
• Client communication and consultation skills 
• Human trafficking prevention (a growing legal and ethical focus) 

Choosing a course that includes or links to specialized content shows initiative and can give you a competitive edge in the workplace. 

Consider the Perks of Trusted CE Providers 

Abba Training’s courses are designed to meet the full 8-hour requirement, including the mandatory 1-hour Texas laws and rules segment—making license renewal seamless and stress-free. 

Fast Certificate Issuance and TDLR Reporting 

The best CE providers issue your certificate immediately after you complete the course and report your hours directly to TDLR. This reduces the chance of delays and helps ensure your license is renewed on time. 

Affordable Pricing and Group Discounts 

Continuing education should be affordable. Many trusted providers offer: 

• Low, flat-rate pricing 
• No hidden fees 
• Discounted pricing for spas or groups of estheticians renewing at the same time 

This is especially useful for spa owners or salon managers looking to renew multiple licenses at once. 

Mobile Access and Customer Support 

Look for courses with features like: 

• 24/7 customer service or tech support 
• A money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied 
• Mobile-friendly platforms for on-the-go learning 
• Lifetime access to completed course content and certificates 

These benefits show that the provider values your experience—not just your enrollment. 

Match Your CE Course with Career Aspirations 

Build Client Trust 

Clients want to know they’re in the hands of an educated, safety-conscious professional. Completing a reputable CE course demonstrates that you’re: 

• Up-to-date on state regulations 
• Dedicated to high sanitation standards 
• Committed to ethical and informed client care 

This builds trust and often results in stronger client retention and referrals. 

Prepare for Career Advancement 

A well-rounded CE course can also set the stage for future roles, such as: 

• Lead esthetician or spa manager 
• Educator or trainer for new estheticians 
• Brand ambassador for skincare lines 
• Specialization in high-demand services 

Choosing a CE provider that offers opportunities for further development helps keep your long-term career on track. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Choose and Complete Your CE 

1. Check Your License Expiration Date 

 Start by logging into your TDLR account to confirm your license renewal deadline. 

2. Select a TDLR-Approved CE Provider 

 Find a course with a valid TDLR Provider Number and Course Number. Ensure it covers all required topics and offers immediate certification. 

3. Enroll and Complete the Course 

 Complete all modules at your own pace. Self-paced platforms allow flexibility and reduce stress around deadlines. 

4. Download Your Completion Certificate 

 Save your digital certificate for personal records. Reputable providers often email you a copy instantly. 

5. Verify TDLR Reporting 

 Ensure your provider has submitted your completion status to TDLR, or upload your certificate directly if required. 

6. Submit Your License Renewal 

 Log back into your TDLR account and finalize your renewal by submitting your CE details and paying the renewal fee. 

Final Thoughts: Smart CE Choices Make Successful Estheticians 

Choosing the right esthetician CE course in Texas isn’t just about staying licensed—it’s about choosing a provider that values your career, your time, and your professional development. The best courses help you stay compliant, learn relevant skills, and position yourself for new opportunities. 

When selecting a course, be sure it is: 

• TDLR-approved with clear credentials 
• Fully online, mobile-accessible, and self-paced 
• Affordable with bonus content and fast certification 
• Offered by a provider with good support and strong reviews 

By making smart CE decisions now, you set yourself up for a smoother renewal, happier clients, and more doors opening in your esthetics journey. We’re here to make CE course selection easy — contact us for trusted guidance. 

FAQs – What Estheticians in Texas Need to Know 

Q: How many CE hours are required to renew a Texas esthetician license? 

A: You need 4 total hours—1 hour in sanitation and 3 hours in relevant esthetics topics. 

These must be completed every two years before your license expiration. 

Q: Can I complete my CE online? 

A: Yes. As long as the provider is TDLR-approved, online CE is fully accepted for license renewal. 

 Online courses offer flexibility and can be completed at your own pace. 

Q: What happens if I don’t complete my CE before the renewal deadline? 

A: You may incur late renewal fees, face temporary license suspension, or need to reapply after a grace period. 

 Continuing to work with an expired license is against TDLR rules. 

Q: How do I know if a course is approved by TDLR? 

A: Approved courses will clearly list their Provider Number and Course Number. 

 You can verify the provider’s approval status on the TDLR website.