Contractor License Requirements in Texas

Texas does not require a state-level general contractor license. However, certain specialty trades such as electricians and plumbers must be licensed. Many local jurisdictions in Texas have their own contractor registration and licensing requirements that may be more stringent than state-level regulations. Texas does not require a state-level general contractor license. However, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors (ACR license) must be licensed through TDLR. Many cities (Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin) have their own contractor registration requirements. Texas is one of the least regulated states for general contractors.

Important

Never hire a contractor who cannot provide a valid license number. A legitimate contractor will have no hesitation sharing their license credentials for you to verify independently. If a contractor refuses, discourages you from checking, or makes excuses, treat that as a serious red flag.

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)

Search by: License number, Name, City, County

Trade-Specific Licensing Boards

Follow these steps to verify a contractor's license in Texas:

1. 1
   Go to the TDLR license searchVisit the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation license search page at tdlr.texas.gov. Texas does not license general contractors at the state level, so this search covers trade-specific licenses (electricians, plumbers, HVAC).
2. 2
   Select the license type and enter search criteriaChoose the appropriate license type from the dropdown menu (Electrician, Plumber, or Air Conditioning and Refrigeration). Enter the contractor's license number, name, or location to search.
3. 3
   Verify the license status and expiration dateConfirm the license shows "Active" status and has not expired. Note the license type to make sure it covers the scope of work you need. A journeyman license has different authority than a master license.
4. 4
   Check your city's local requirementsSince Texas does not have statewide general contractor licensing, check your city or county's website for local contractor registration requirements. Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, and most major cities have their own registration systems.
5. 5
   Request proof of insurance directlyTexas does not require general contractors to carry insurance at the state level. Ask the contractor directly for a certificate of general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Verify the certificate is current and lists adequate coverage amounts.

What to Look for in Verification Results

• License status must be "Active" with a current expiration date
• License type must match the work being performed (master vs. journeyman)
• Check for any enforcement actions or disciplinary orders
• Verify the name on the license matches the contractor or their business
• For general contracting, verify local city/county registration
• Request a certificate of insurance separately -- TDLR does not track insurance for all trades

Hiring an unlicensed contractor in Texas carries significant risks for both the homeowner and the contractor:

• No consumer protections: State recovery funds and guaranty programs typically only cover work performed by licensed contractors.
• Insurance issues: Your homeowner's insurance may deny claims related to work done by an unlicensed contractor.
• Permit problems: Building permits often require a valid contractor license. Work done without permits can create issues when selling your property.
• Quality concerns: Licensed contractors have demonstrated minimum competency through exams, experience requirements, or both.
• Legal liability: Homeowners may bear greater legal responsibility for injuries or property damage caused during unlicensed work.

Texas does not currently have reciprocal contractor licensing agreements with other states. Contractors licensed in other states must apply for a new Texas license through the standard application process. Some states may credit out-of-state experience toward licensing requirements -- contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) for details.