Scams in at least two states make it clear that nail and cosmetology licensees should be on the alert to avoid being defrauded. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) is warning all cosmetology licensees that mailed notices that appear to be from the National Cosmetology Association or Professional Certification Service regarding the expiration of a “professional certification” are a scheme to take your money. “Upon careful examination of the notice you will see that it refers to a ‘certification renewal’ and not your license renewal. That notice has nothing to do with your Texas Cosmetology license and you should not respond to it,” advises a TDLR spokesperson.

The TDLR also warned cosmetologists in the Houston area about reports of a man posing as a TDLR inspector. According to reports, the man falsely identified himself as an inspector, stole items from salons, and demanded money for supposed license violations. Real TDLR inspectors visiting a salon will not accept payment of license fees, request money for violations, or charge for copies of an inspection report.

More information can be obtained from the TDLR by calling (800) 803-9202 or by e-mailing cs.cosmetologists@license.state.tx.us.

These warnings follow on the heels of another licensing scam in California. A business called the California License Renewal Service mailed renewal notices to Board of Barbering and Cosmetology licensees. The notice offered to file the licensee’s renewal application and fee with the Board in exchange for a “service fee” of up to $40. The California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology responded with the following notice on their website: “The California License Renewal Service is neither associated with nor endorsed in any way by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. The Board will mail you its own notice within 90 days of your license’s expiration date with instructions on how to file for renewal directly with the Board. There is no service charge associated with filing your renewal directly with the Board.”  

For reprint and licensing requests for this article, Click here.