Texas Contractor Licensing: What Homeowners Need to Know
Which Texas contractors need licenses? Here's the complete breakdown to protect yourself.
Texas Contractor Licensing: What Homeowners Need to Know
Texas doesn't license general contractors. But specific trades ARE licensed. Know the difference.
Licensed Trades in Texas
Plumbers: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
Verify: tsbpe.texas.gov
Electricians: Texas TDLR
Verify: tdlr.texas.gov
HVAC: Texas TDLR (ACR License)
Verify: tdlr.texas.gov
Irrigation: Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
Verify: tceq.texas.gov
NOT Licensed at State Level
- General contractors
- Roofers
- Painters
- Handymen
- Carpenters
- Landscapers
Why This Matters
Licensed = accountability
- State oversight
- Complaint process
- Minimum competency verified
Unlicensed = buyer beware
- No state verification
- Insurance is your only protection
- References matter more
City-Level Licensing
Some Texas cities require additional licensing:
Houston: Plumbers, electricians, HVAC need city registration
Austin: Electricians need city registration
Dallas: Various trade registrations
San Antonio: Additional permits for some work
Always check local requirements.
How to Verify
Step 1: Ask for license number
Step 2: Go to appropriate website (TDLR, TSBPE, etc.)
Step 3: Search by name or license number
Step 4: Verify license is active and current
Red Flags
- "I don't need a license in Texas" (for licensed trades)
- Won't provide license number
- License doesn't verify online
- Working outside licensed scope
Protecting Yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Texas license general contractors?
No. Texas doesn't have a state general contractor license. Specific trades (plumbing, electrical, HVAC) are licensed.
How do I verify a Texas license?
TDLR (most trades): tdlr.texas.gov. Plumbers: tsbpe.texas.gov. Electricians: tdlr.texas.gov.
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