> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.cslid.nascla.memorang.app/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Texas

> Contractor licensing thresholds, regulator routing, requirements, reciprocity, and license types for Texas's specialty-only licensing model with no state-level general contractor license.

Texas does not license general contractors or home builders at the state level. Only specialty trades — HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, elevators, water well drilling, and manufactured housing — require state credentials. Six separate agencies administer these licenses, and highway construction requires TxDOT prequalification.

<Warning>
  Always verify statutes, fees, and application details with the live regulator before making bidding, licensing, or legal decisions.
</Warning>

## At a glance

The most important thing to know about Texas is what it does not regulate.

| Signal                     | Value                                                                                                        |
| -------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| General contractor license | Not required at the state level                                                                              |
| Home builder license       | Not required at the state level                                                                              |
| Specialty trade license    | Required for HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, elevator, water well, LP gas, manufactured housing |
| Highway prequalification   | TxDOT prequalification based on financial statements                                                         |
| Public works bond          | **\$25,000** performance bond for contracts over **\$25,000**                                                |
| Reciprocity model          | Trade-specific across 3 categories — not statewide                                                           |

## Frequently asked questions

Pick the tab that matches your situation. Each FAQ gives a direct answer and points you to the full detail below.

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Contractors" icon="hard-hat">
    <AccordionGroup>
      <Accordion title="Does Texas require a general contractor license?">
        No. Texas does not license general contractors or home builders at the state level. General building and home construction do not require a state license. Check with your local municipality or county for any local registration or permit requirements. See [Construction work regulated](#construction-work-regulated).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What specialty trades require a state license in Texas?">
        HVAC and refrigeration, electrical, plumbing, fire alarm, fire sprinkler, fire extinguisher, elevator/escalator, water well drilling/pump installation, LP gas/propane, and manufactured housing all require state credentials from separate agencies. See [Construction work regulated](#construction-work-regulated).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Which agency issues each specialty license?">
        TDLR handles HVAC, electrical, elevator, and water well. TSBPE handles plumbing. TDI Fire Marshal handles fire alarm, sprinkler, and extinguisher. Railroad Commission handles LP gas. TDHCA handles manufactured housing. TxDOT handles highway prequalification. See [Who regulates construction](#who-regulates-construction).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How much does it cost to get licensed?">
        Fees vary by trade. Master Electrician: **\$78** exam + **\$45** application. Journeyman Electrician: **\$78** exam + **\$30** application. A/C Class A: **\$74** exam + **\$115** application. Journeyman Plumber: **\$40** exam + **\$40** initial. Manufactured housing retailer: **\$550** license + **\$50,000** bond. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What are the insurance and bonding requirements?">
        A/C contractors need **\$300,000** / **\$600,000** liability (Class A) or **\$100,000** / **\$200,000** (Class B). Electrical contractors need **\$300,000** / **\$600,000** liability. Plumbing Responsible Master Plumber requires **\$300,000** commercial liability. Fire alarm companies pay **\$100,000** / **\$300,000**. Public works contracts over **\$25,000** require a performance bond. Manufactured housing bonds range from **\$25,000** to **\$100,000**. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Can I use my out-of-state license in Texas?">
        Reciprocity is very limited. A/C and refrigeration has agreements with Georgia and South Carolina. Master electrician has agreements with Louisiana and North Carolina. Journeyman electrician has agreements with 10 states. No general contractor reciprocity exists because Texas has no GC license. See [Reciprocal agreements](#reciprocal-agreements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What about highway construction?">
        TxDOT prequalification is based on annual CPA-prepared financial statements. Bid limits are based on working capital. Contractors must use E-Verify. Processing takes approximately two weeks. There is no fee for prequalification itself. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Does Texas require a license for roofing work?">
        No. Roofing is not a state-licensed specialty trade in Texas. Check with local municipalities for any local registration or permit requirements.
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Does Texas require a license for residential work?">
        No state license is required for residential home building or remodeling in Texas. Local municipalities and counties may impose their own registration or permit requirements. See [Construction work regulated](#construction-work-regulated).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What about public works contracts?">
        Public works contracts over **\$25,000** require a performance bond. This is a statutory requirement regardless of whether the work involves a licensed specialty trade. See [Construction work regulated](#construction-work-regulated).
      </Accordion>
    </AccordionGroup>
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Regulators" icon="shield-check">
    <AccordionGroup>
      <Accordion title="How does Texas's specialty-only model compare to comprehensive licensing states?">
        Texas is one of the few states that does not license general contractors at the state level. This puts it in the same structural category as Oklahoma (also specialty-only). Most Southern states — Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia — license general contractors with dollar thresholds. The absence of a GC license is the defining feature of the Texas model.
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How do Texas's fee structures compare to other states?">
        Texas fees are moderate for specialty trades. Master Electrician is **\$45** application / **\$45** renewal. Journeyman Electrician is **\$30** / **\$30**. A/C Class A is **\$115** / **\$65**. Plumbing Master is **\$75** initial. These are generally lower than states with comprehensive licensing requirements. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What types of construction work are regulated at the state vs. local level?">
        Texas regulates only specialty trades at the state level through 6 agencies. General building, residential, and commercial construction are left to local jurisdictions. This means regulatory analysis for Texas requires checking both state specialty requirements and local registration/permit rules.
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How many agencies administer specialty trade licenses?">
        Six agencies: TDLR (HVAC, electrical, elevator, water well), TSBPE (plumbing), TDI Fire Marshal (fire alarm, sprinkler, extinguisher), Railroad Commission (LP gas), TDHCA (manufactured housing), and TxDOT (highway prequalification). See [Who regulates construction](#who-regulates-construction).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What license classifications does Texas use?">
        A/C has Class A (all sizes) and Class B (25 tons and under) in both environmental air and commercial refrigeration. Electrical spans from apprentice through journeyman through master with multiple specialty types. Plumbing runs apprentice through tradesman through journeyman through master with endorsements. Fire protection has alarm, extinguisher, and sprinkler categories. See [Types of licenses](#types-of-licenses).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How does reciprocity work in Texas?">
        Reciprocity is limited to 3 trade categories. A/C and refrigeration: Georgia, South Carolina. Master electrician: Louisiana, North Carolina. Journeyman electrician: 10 states (Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wyoming). No GC reciprocity is possible. See [Reciprocal agreements](#reciprocal-agreements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What exam requirements exist across the specialty trades?">
        Most trades require PSI-administered exams at 70% minimum. Plumbing requires written and practical exams at 70% each. Fire alarm exams are closed-book (NICET or PSI). LP gas exams are given five days a week in Austin. A/C and electrical require prequalification before sitting for the exam. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What are the renewal cycles across Texas agencies?">
        A/C licenses renew annually with CE. Electrical licenses renew annually with CE for most types. Plumbing licenses renew annually; endorsements renew triennially. Fire alarm and extinguisher renew biennially. Manufactured housing renews biennially with 8 hours of CE. TxDOT prequalification is annual. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How does Texas compare to other large states?">
        Texas's no-GC model contrasts sharply with California (comprehensive single-board, **\$500** threshold) and Florida (two-tier certified/registered system). Within the South, Texas is structurally closest to Oklahoma. The six-agency specialty model creates complexity for cross-state comparison despite the absence of a GC license.
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What is the public works bond requirement?">
        Public works contracts over **\$25,000** require a **\$25,000** performance bond. This statutory requirement applies regardless of whether the work involves a state-licensed specialty trade. It is the primary state-level financial requirement for general contractors working on public projects. See [Construction work regulated](#construction-work-regulated).
      </Accordion>
    </AccordionGroup>
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Start with your goal

Pick the card that matches what you need right now. Each one links to the relevant section on this page.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Is licensure triggered?" icon="search" href="#construction-work-regulated">
    Start with the type of work — Texas triggers licensing by trade, not by dollar amount.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Find the right regulator" icon="building" href="#who-regulates-construction">
    Use the regulator directory to route your question to the correct Texas agency.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Application and renewal details" icon="clipboard-list" href="#requirements">
    Exams, fees, bonds, continuing education, and renewal cycles for each specialty trade.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Reciprocity direction" icon="arrow-left-right" href="#reciprocal-agreements">
    Find out which states have reciprocity agreements with Texas specialty boards.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Special considerations

Different roles need different things from a Texas page. Use the tab that matches your situation to see what matters most before you read the full detail below.

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Contractors" icon="hard-hat">
    <Tip>
      Texas does NOT license general contractors at the state level. Your first question is whether your trade requires a specialty license.
    </Tip>

    * General building and home construction do not require a state contractor license.
    * Check with your local municipality or county for any local registration requirements.
    * HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, elevator, water well, LP gas, and manufactured housing trades require state licenses from separate agencies.
    * Highway construction requires TxDOT prequalification with annual financial statements.
    * A **\$25,000** performance bond is required for public works contracts over **\$25,000**.
    * Insurance requirements vary by trade — check the specific agency.
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Regulators" icon="shield-check">
    <Info>
      Texas is a specialty-only licensing state with no general contractor board — a key structural distinction.
    </Info>

    * Six separate agencies administer specialty trade licenses.
    * The absence of a general contractor license is a defining feature when comparing Texas to other states.
    * Reciprocity is limited to A/C, master electrician, and journeyman electrician — each through different agencies.
    * Local jurisdictions may impose additional registration requirements for general contractors.
    * Texas stands out nationally for not licensing general contractors or home builders.
    * Reciprocity covers only 3 trade categories — A/C, master electrician, and journeyman electrician.
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Readiness checklist

Four things you need to confirm before you can treat Texas as "ready" for a bid or an application. If any of these are unclear, you are not ready yet.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Determine if a specialty license is required" icon="tag">
    General building and home construction do not require a state license. Specialty trades — HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, elevator, water well, LP gas, manufactured housing — do.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Check local and public works rules" icon="receipt">
    Local municipalities may require registration. Public works contracts over `$25,000` require a performance bond. Highway work requires TxDOT prequalification.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Route to the correct agency" icon="building">
    Texas splits specialty licensing across 6 agencies. Use the regulator directory below to find the right one.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm the requirement set" icon="clipboard-check">
    Confirm exams, experience, fees, insurance, bond, renewal cycle, and reciprocity rules for the specific trade before filing.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Check>
  If you can confirm whether state licensing applies, which agency handles it, and what the requirement set is, you have the minimum package needed for a Texas readiness check.
</Check>

## Navigation

Use these links to jump to related cross-state comparisons and workflows.

* [New state evaluation](/docs/workflows/new-state-evaluation) if you are screening Texas for the first time.
* [Multi-state bid readiness](/docs/workflows/multi-state-bid-readiness) if you need to compare Texas with nearby jurisdictions.
* [Licensing thresholds](/docs/compare/licensing-thresholds) or [prequalification patterns](/docs/compare/prequalification) for cross-state context.

## Construction work regulated

Texas regulates specialty trades regardless of contract value. The trigger is the type of work, not the dollar amount.

| Work lane                                | What triggers regulation                     |
| ---------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------- |
| General construction                     | No state license required — check local      |
| Home building / remodeling               | No state license required — check local      |
| HVAC and refrigeration                   | State license required (TDLR)                |
| Electrical                               | State license required (TDLR)                |
| Plumbing                                 | State license required (TSBPE)               |
| Fire alarm, sprinkler, extinguisher      | State license required (TDI Fire Marshal)    |
| Elevator / escalator                     | State registration required (TDLR)           |
| Water well drilling / pump installation  | State license required (TDLR)                |
| LP gas / propane / CNG / LNG             | State license required (Railroad Commission) |
| Manufactured housing                     | State license required (TDHCA)               |
| Highway construction                     | TxDOT prequalification required              |
| Public works contracts over **\$25,000** | Performance bond required                    |

<Note>
  Although general contractors are not licensed at the state level, local municipalities and counties may impose their own registration or permit requirements. Always check local rules.
</Note>

## Common determination scenarios

If you are trying to figure out where to start, expand the scenario that is closest to your situation.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="General contractor or home builder" icon="building">
    Texas does not require a state license for general contractors or home builders. Check with your local municipality or county for registration requirements, building permits, and inspection rules.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="HVAC or electrical contractor" icon="bolt">
    You need a state license from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Exams are given by PSI, with a 70% minimum passing score. Insurance is required.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Plumbing contractor" icon="tool">
    Route to the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE). Texas uses a tiered plumbing credential system from Apprentice through Master, each with specific hour requirements.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Highway construction" icon="road">
    Submit financial statements to TxDOT for annual prequalification. Bid limits are based on working capital. Contractors must use E-Verify. No separate fee for prequalification.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Reciprocity request from another state" icon="arrow-left-right">
    Texas reciprocity is limited to three trade categories: A/C and refrigeration, master electrician, and journeyman electrician. Check the reciprocal agreements section below for covered states.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Who regulates construction

Texas splits specialty trade licensing across 6 agencies. There is no general contractor board. Use this directory to find the agency for your trade.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Highway prequalification — Texas Department of Transportation" icon="road">
    6230 East Stassney Lane, Austin, TX 78744

    **Phone:** (512) 416-2584 | **Fax:** (512) 416-2414

    **Email:** [cst\_prequalification@txdot.gov](mailto:cst_prequalification@txdot.gov)

    **Website:** [txdot.gov](https://www.txdot.gov/business/road-bridge-maintenance/contract-letting/contractor-prequalification.html)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="HVAC, electrical, elevator, water well — Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)" icon="bolt">
    P.O. Box 12157, Austin, TX 78711

    **Phone:** (512) 463-6599 | **Toll-free:** (800) 803-9202

    **Website:** [tdlr.texas.gov](https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Plumbing — State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE)" icon="tool">
    P.O. Box 4200, Austin, TX 78765

    **Phone:** (512) 936-5200 | **Fax:** (512) 302-5090

    **Website:** [tsbpe.texas.gov](https://www.tsbpe.texas.gov/)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Fire alarm, sprinkler, extinguisher — Department of Insurance, State Fire Marshal" icon="flame">
    P.O. Box 149221, Austin, TX 78714-9221

    **Phone:** (512) 676-6800 | **Fax:** (512) 490-1056

    **Website:** [tdi.texas.gov/fire/fmli.html](https://www.tdi.texas.gov/fire/fmli.html)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="LP gas, propane, CNG, LNG — Railroad Commission of Texas" icon="flame">
    P.O. Box 12967, Austin, TX 78711-2967

    **Phone:** (800) 642-5327 | **Fax:** (512) 463-7292

    **Website:** [rrc.texas.gov](https://www.rrc.texas.gov/)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Manufactured housing — Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA)" icon="building-warehouse">
    P.O. Box 12489, Austin, TX 78711

    **Phone:** (800) 500-7074 or (512) 475-2200 | **Fax:** (512) 475-1109

    **Website:** [tdhca.texas.gov/mhd](https://www.tdhca.texas.gov/mhd)
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Requirements

Each Texas specialty trade has its own exams, fees, insurance, and renewal rules. Expand the trade that applies to your situation.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Highway Prequalification" icon="road" defaultOpen={true}>
    | Requirement          | Detail                                                                        |
    | -------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Financial statements | Annual CPA-prepared statements required. Bid limits based on working capital. |
    | E-Verify             | Contractors must use the E-Verify program to verify employee information.     |
    | Processing time      | Approximately two weeks.                                                      |
    | Validity             | One year from the date of financial statements or receipt of application.     |
    | Fee                  | None for prequalification itself.                                             |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Air Conditioning and Refrigeration" icon="temperature">
    | Requirement   | Detail                                                                                                                                                                                  |
    | ------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Experience    | 4 years under a licensed A/C contractor in past 6 years, or technician certification for 12 months plus 36 months practical experience in past 48 months.                               |
    | Exam          | PSI exam, 70% minimum. Prequalification required.                                                                                                                                       |
    | Insurance     | Class A: **\$300,000** per occurrence / **\$600,000** aggregate. Class B: **\$100,000** per occurrence / **\$200,000** aggregate. Products/completed operations coverage also required. |
    | Renewal cycle | Annual, continuing education required.                                                                                                                                                  |

    | License Type                     | Exam Fee | Application Fee | Renewal Fee |
    | -------------------------------- | -------- | --------------- | ----------- |
    | Environmental Air Class A        | **\$74** | **\$115**       | **\$65**    |
    | Environmental Air Class B        | **\$60** | **\$115**       | **\$65**    |
    | Commercial Refrigeration Class A | **\$74** | **\$115**       | **\$65**    |
    | Commercial Refrigeration Class B | **\$60** | **\$115**       | **\$65**    |
    | ACR Technician                   | No exam  | **\$20**        | **\$20**    |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Electricians" icon="bolt">
    | Requirement   | Detail                                                                                                                   |
    | ------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
    | Experience    | Varies by license type.                                                                                                  |
    | Exam          | PSI exam, 70% minimum. Prequalification required.                                                                        |
    | Insurance     | **\$300,000** per occurrence / **\$600,000** aggregate for businesses, plus **\$300,000** products/completed operations. |
    | Renewal cycle | Annual, most require continuing education.                                                                               |

    **Business licenses:**

    | License Type                             | Application Fee | Renewal Fee |
    | ---------------------------------------- | --------------- | ----------- |
    | Electrical Contractor                    | **\$110**       | **\$110**   |
    | Electrical Sign Contractor               | **\$110**       | **\$110**   |
    | Residential Appliance Install Contractor | **\$110**       | **\$110**   |

    **Individual licenses:**

    | License Type                      | Exam Fee | Application Fee | Renewal Fee |
    | --------------------------------- | -------- | --------------- | ----------- |
    | Master Electrician                | **\$78** | **\$45**        | **\$45**    |
    | Master Sign Electrician           | **\$64** | **\$45**        | **\$45**    |
    | Journeyman Electrician            | **\$78** | **\$30**        | **\$30**    |
    | Journeyman Industrial Electrician | **\$64** | **\$30**        | **\$30**    |
    | Journeyman Lineman                | **\$61** | **\$30**        | **\$30**    |
    | Journeyman Sign Electrician       | **\$64** | **\$30**        | **\$30**    |
    | Residential Wireman               | **\$64** | **\$20**        | **\$20**    |
    | Maintenance Electrician           | **\$64** | **\$20**        | **\$20**    |
    | Apprentice Electrician            | No exam  | **\$20**        | **\$20**    |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Plumbing" icon="tool">
    | Requirement   | Detail                                                                                                                                           |
    | ------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
    | Exam          | Written and practical exam, 70% minimum on each portion.                                                                                         |
    | Experience    | Ranges from 2,000 hours (Residential Utilities Installer) to 8,000 hours (Journeyman). Hours documented via Employer's Certification Form (ECF). |
    | Training      | TSBPE-approved classroom program required (24-48 hours depending on level).                                                                      |
    | Insurance     | Responsible Master Plumber designation requires **\$300,000** commercial liability.                                                              |
    | Renewal cycle | Annual for licenses; triennial for endorsements. CPE required.                                                                                   |

    **Core license fees:**

    | License Type                           | Initial Fee | Exam Fee  |
    | -------------------------------------- | ----------- | --------- |
    | Responsible Master Plumber designation | **\$300**   | N/A       |
    | Master Plumber                         | **\$75**    | **\$175** |
    | Journeyman Plumber                     | **\$40**    | **\$40**  |
    | Tradesman Plumber — Limited            | **\$35**    | **\$36**  |
    | Plumbing Inspector                     | **\$55**    | **\$55**  |
    | Plumber's Apprentice Registration      | **\$15**    | N/A       |

    **Registration fees:**

    | Registration Type               | Initial Fee |
    | ------------------------------- | ----------- |
    | Residential Utilities Installer | **\$18**    |
    | Drain Cleaner                   | **\$18**    |
    | Drain Cleaner — Restricted      | **\$18**    |

    **Endorsement fees:**

    | Endorsement                             | Master                   | Journeyman               | Inspector                   |
    | --------------------------------------- | ------------------------ | ------------------------ | --------------------------- |
    | Medical Gas Piping Installation         | **\$55** / **\$80** exam | **\$14** / **\$27** exam | **\$27.50** / **\$40** exam |
    | Water Supply Protection Specialist      | **\$55** / **\$80** exam | **\$14** / **\$27** exam | **\$27.50** / **\$40** exam |
    | Multipurpose Residential Fire Sprinkler | **\$55** / **\$80** exam | **\$14** / **\$27** exam | **\$27.50** / **\$40** exam |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Fire Alarm" icon="flame">
    | Requirement   | Detail                                                                                         |
    | ------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Exam          | 1-3 exams depending on classification, 70% minimum. Closed-book. NICET or PSI.                 |
    | Insurance     | **\$100,000** single limit / **\$300,000** aggregate, including products/completed operations. |
    | Renewal cycle | Biennial.                                                                                      |

    **Individual licenses:**

    | License Type                       | Initial Fee | Biennial Renewal |
    | ---------------------------------- | ----------- | ---------------- |
    | All categories (except RAL)        | **\$120**   | **\$200**        |
    | Residential Alarm Technician (RAL) | **\$50**    | **\$100**        |

    **Company registration:**

    | Certificate Type     | Initial Fee | Biennial Renewal |
    | -------------------- | ----------- | ---------------- |
    | Company Registration | **\$500**   | **\$1,000**      |
    | Single Station only  | **\$250**   | **\$500**        |
    | Branch Office (each) | **\$150**   | **\$300**        |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Fire Extinguisher" icon="flame">
    | Requirement   | Detail                                                                                                        |
    | ------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Exam          | Varies by type — NICET Level III for Type PL; technical and statute/rules tests for other types. 70% minimum. |
    | Renewal cycle | Biennial.                                                                                                     |

    **Individual licenses:**

    | License Type      | Initial Fee | Biennial Renewal |
    | ----------------- | ----------- | ---------------- |
    | Type PL Planning  | **\$70**    | **\$100**        |
    | Type A, B, K, R   | **\$70**    | **\$100**        |
    | Apprentice Permit | **\$30**    | N/A              |

    **Company registration:**

    | Type                | Initial Fee | Biennial Renewal |
    | ------------------- | ----------- | ---------------- |
    | Main Office         | **\$450**   | **\$600**        |
    | Branch Office       | **\$100**   | **\$200**        |
    | Type C Registration | **\$250**   | **\$300**        |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Fire Sprinkler System" icon="flame">
    | Requirement   | Detail                                                                                                          |
    | ------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Exam          | General RME requires NICET Level III plus agency exam at 70%, or registration as a Texas professional engineer. |
    | Renewal cycle | Biennial.                                                                                                       |

    **Responsible Managing Employee (RME):**

    | License Type          | Initial Fee | Biennial Renewal |
    | --------------------- | ----------- | ---------------- |
    | RME-General           | **\$200**   | **\$350**        |
    | RME-Dwelling          | **\$150**   | **\$200**        |
    | RME-Underground       | **\$150**   | **\$200**        |
    | RME-General Inspector | **\$50**    | **\$100**        |

    **Company registration:**

    | Type            | Application Fee | Initial Fee | Biennial Renewal |
    | --------------- | --------------- | ----------- | ---------------- |
    | SCR-General     | **\$50**        | **\$950**   | **\$1,800**      |
    | SCR-Dwelling    | **\$50**        | **\$350**   | **\$600**        |
    | SCR-Underground | **\$50**        | **\$350**   | **\$600**        |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="LP Gas" icon="flame">
    | Requirement | Detail                                                                                                                                                    |
    | ----------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Exam        | Required. Exams given five days a week in Austin and on scheduled dates at other sites.                                                                   |
    | Insurance   | **\$25,000** per occurrence / **\$50,000** aggregate general liability, plus workers' comp or accident/health.                                            |
    | Waiver      | License and exam waived for holders of a current A/C contractor license or master plumber license (registration with Railroad Commission still required). |

    | Fee                          | Amount    |
    | ---------------------------- | --------- |
    | Initial license (Category D) | **\$100** |
    | Annual renewal               | **\$70**  |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Elevator Contractors" icon="building">
    | Requirement   | Detail                                                                                                           |
    | ------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Registration  | Required for anyone installing, repairing, altering, or maintaining elevators, escalators, or related equipment. |
    | Plans         | Must submit plans for review and approval for all new and altered equipment before acceptance inspection.        |
    | Renewal cycle | Annual.                                                                                                          |

    | Fee                   | Amount             |
    | --------------------- | ------------------ |
    | Application / renewal | **\$115** per year |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Water Well Drillers and Pump Installers" icon="tool">
    | Requirement   | Detail                                                                                              |
    | ------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Experience    | 2 years under a licensed driller or installer. Must document qualifying drillings or installations. |
    | Exam          | PSI exam, 70% minimum.                                                                              |
    | Renewal cycle | Biennial.                                                                                           |

    | License Type                      | Exam Fee           | Application Fee | Renewal Fee |
    | --------------------------------- | ------------------ | --------------- | ----------- |
    | General Water Well Driller        | **\$52**           | **\$430**       | **\$430**   |
    | General Pump Installer            | **\$52**           | **\$430**       | **\$430**   |
    | Combination Driller/Installer     | **\$104**          | **\$650**       | **\$650**   |
    | Endorsements (various)            | **\$43**--**\$52** | **\$25**        | N/A         |
    | Apprentice (Driller or Installer) | N/A                | N/A             | **\$65**    |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Manufactured Housing" icon="building-warehouse">
    | Requirement          | Detail                                                                                                           |
    | -------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Education            | 8-hour Core Licensing Education Class (LEC) required; retailers and installers need an additional 4-hour course. |
    | Exam                 | State Business and Trade exam, 70% minimum.                                                                      |
    | Bond                 | Required — amount varies by license type.                                                                        |
    | Continuing education | 8 hours of CE required for renewal.                                                                              |
    | Recovery fund        | Maximum **\$35,000** per claim.                                                                                  |
    | Renewal cycle        | Biennial.                                                                                                        |

    | License Type              | Bond          | License / Renewal Fee |
    | ------------------------- | ------------- | --------------------- |
    | Manufacturer              | **\$100,000** | **\$850**             |
    | Retailer                  | **\$50,000**  | **\$550**             |
    | Broker                    | **\$50,000**  | **\$350**             |
    | Installer                 | **\$25,000**  | **\$350**             |
    | Salesperson               | N/A           | **\$200**             |
    | Retailer/Installer        | **\$50,000**  | **\$900**             |
    | Retailer/Broker           | **\$50,000**  | **\$900**             |
    | Retailer/Broker/Installer | **\$50,000**  | **\$1,250**           |

    **Education class fees:**

    | Course        | Fee       |
    | ------------- | --------- |
    | Core LEC      | **\$150** |
    | Retailer LEC  | **\$50**  |
    | Installer LEC | **\$50**  |

    <Note>
      Out-of-state manufacturers without a Texas warranty service facility must post an additional **\$100,000** bond.
    </Note>
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Reciprocal agreements

Texas reciprocity is limited to three specialty trade categories. There is no statewide reciprocity because there is no general contractor license.

<Info>
  Reciprocity in Texas applies only to A/C, master electrician, and journeyman electrician credentials. No general contractor reciprocity exists because Texas does not license general contractors.
</Info>

| Trade                  | Reciprocal states                                                                             | Coverage                               |
| ---------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------- |
| A/C and refrigeration  | Georgia, South Carolina                                                                       | <Badge color="green">2 states</Badge>  |
| Master electrician     | Louisiana, North Carolina                                                                     | <Badge color="green">2 states</Badge>  |
| Journeyman electrician | Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wyoming | <Badge color="green">10 states</Badge> |

## Types of licenses

Texas offers specialty trade credentials across six agencies. Use these tabs to find the license category that matches your trade.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="TDLR — HVAC, Electrical, Elevator, Water Well" icon="bolt">
    **Air Conditioning and Refrigeration:**

    * BE — Cooling, heating, ventilation for human comfort (25 tons and under)
    * BR — Refrigeration for equipment, product, or process cooling (25 tons and under)
    * AE — Cooling, heating, ventilation for human comfort (all sizes)
    * AR — Refrigeration for equipment, product, or process cooling (all sizes)
    * ACR Technician

    **Electrical:**

    * Electrical Contractor (business); Electrical Sign Contractor (business)
    * Residential Appliance Installation Contractor (business)
    * Master Electrician; Master Sign Electrician
    * Journeyman Electrician; Journeyman Industrial Electrician; Journeyman Lineman; Journeyman Sign Electrician
    * Residential Wireman; Maintenance Electrician; Residential Appliance Installer
    * Apprentice Electrician; Electrical Sign Apprentice

    **Elevator:**

    * Elevator Contractor (registration)

    **Water Well:**

    * General Water Well Driller; Pump Installer; Combination Driller/Installer
    * Endorsements: Water Well, Monitor Well, Closed-Loop Geothermal, Injection Well, Dewatering Well, Single-Phase Pump, Three-Phase Pump, Line-Shaft Turbine Pump, Windmill/Hand Pump/Pump Jack
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="TSBPE — Plumbing" icon="tool">
    **Registrations:**

    * Plumber's Apprentice
    * Drain Cleaner — Restricted; Drain Cleaner
    * Residential Utilities Installer

    **Licenses:**

    * Tradesman Plumber — Limited
    * Journeyman Plumber
    * Master Plumber
    * Plumbing Inspector
    * Responsible Master Plumber (designation)

    **Endorsements:**

    * Medical Gas Piping Installation
    * Water Supply Protection Specialist
    * Multipurpose Residential Fire Protection Sprinkler Specialist
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="TDI — Fire Protection" icon="flame">
    **Fire Alarm:**

    * Fire Alarm Technician; Residential Fire Alarm Technician
    * Residential Fire Alarm Superintendent; Residential Fire Alarm Superintendent — Single Station
    * Fire Alarm Planning Superintendent; Fire Alarm Monitoring Technician

    **Fire Extinguisher:**

    * PL Planning; Type A Fixed System; Type B Portable Extinguisher; Type K Cooking Systems
    * Apprentice Permit; Type C Hydrostatic Testing Registration

    **Fire Sprinkler:**

    * General; Underground; Dwelling; General Inspector
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Other Agencies" icon="building-warehouse">
    **Manufactured Housing (TDHCA):**

    * Manufacturer; Broker; Retailer; Installer; Salesperson

    **LP Gas (Railroad Commission):**

    * General Installer and Repairman

    **Residential Construction (local):**

    * Builders and Remodelers (local registration only — no state license)
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## See also

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="South region guide" icon="map" href="/docs/jurisdictions/regions/south">
    Browse all South jurisdictions for comparison.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Contractors guide" icon="hard-hat" href="/docs/personas/contractor">
    Cross-state guidance for contractors evaluating new jurisdictions.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Regulators guide" icon="shield-check" href="/docs/personas/regulatory-staff">
    Cross-state guidance for comparing regulatory models and agency structures.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

**Neighboring jurisdictions with reciprocity ties:**

<CardGroup cols={3}>
  <Card title="Louisiana" icon="map-pin" href="/docs/jurisdictions/louisiana">
    Master electrician reciprocity with Texas.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Oklahoma" icon="map-pin" href="/docs/jurisdictions/oklahoma">
    Journeyman electrician reciprocity with Texas.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Arkansas" icon="map-pin" href="/docs/jurisdictions/arkansas">
    Journeyman electrician reciprocity with Texas.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>