Contractor License Requirements in Texas

Texas does not have a general contractor license at the state level. However, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors must be licensed through TDLR or TSBPE. Some cities (Houston, San Antonio, Austin) require additional local permits and registrations.

Source: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)

License Types

License	Exam	Experience	Fees
Master Electrician	PSI exam	8,000 hours apprentice + 4,000 hours journeyman	60 application + 185 exam
Journeyman Electrician	PSI exam	8,000 hours under master electrician	35 application + 78 exam
Master Plumber	State exam	8 years experience (4 as journeyman)	275 license fee
Journeyman Plumber	State exam	8,000 hours under master/journeyman	175 license fee
AC/Refrigeration Contractor	TDLR exam	Varies by license class	115 registration fee

Bond Requirements

No state bond requirement for most trades. Some local jurisdictions may require bonds for specific permit types.

Insurance Requirements

Workers compensation not mandatory for most private employers in Texas (Texas is an opt-out state). However, many project owners and GCs require proof of coverage. Plumbers and electricians need liability insurance for permit work in most cities.

Renewal

Electricians: annual renewal, 4 hours CE required. Plumbers: annual renewal, 6 hours CE required. HVAC: annual renewal, CE varies by license type.

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Unlicensed electrical or plumbing work: Class C misdemeanor, fine up to 500 dollars. Repeat offenses: Class B misdemeanor, fine up to 2,000 dollars and/or 180 days jail. Cities may impose additional penalties.