Texas Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide
Texas regulates key construction trades at the state level, with different agencies overseeing specific scopes of work. Air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC) contractors and technicians are licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Plumbing licenses, endorsements, and related registrations are issued by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE). Exams for these programs are administered by third-party vendors designated by the state.
This guide walks you through Texas requirements for electricians, plumbers, HVAC professionals, general contractors, roofers, and selected specialty trades so you can plan your path to compliance. We highlight several representative licenses and authorities for Texas below; this guide is updated periodically as additional details are refined or requested by readers.
Where specific items are not listed (such as certain fees or detailed exam formats), use the official links provided to verify current rules before you apply. State agencies periodically update applications, exam outlines, and renewal policies.
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Overview of Texas Contractor Licensing
Texas relies on state agencies to regulate specific construction trades. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) oversees air conditioning and refrigeration (ACR) contractors and technicians and administers electrician licensing programs. The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) regulates plumbers, plumbing inspectors, and plumbing endorsements and registrations.
State licensing also involves approved exam providers. For ACR contractor and certified technician examinations, TDLR designates PSI as the testing vendor. For plumbing license and endorsement examinations, the TSBPE designates Pearson VUE to administer the exams and manage candidate scheduling and score reporting according to board policies.
Use the official portals linked below to confirm the latest application forms, exam registration steps, insurance requirements (if applicable), and renewal timelines. Trade scopes and supervisor relationships (for apprentices and trainees) are defined by the relevant state agency.
Browse all Texas contractor license practice tests →
Electrician Licenses in Texas
Electrician licensing in Texas is administered by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). License classifications, eligibility criteria, exam requirements, and renewal policies are maintained by TDLR and published on official pages. TDLR also publishes specific exemptions for certain electrical connections performed by licensed air conditioning and refrigeration contractors under defined circumstances.
Start with TDLR’s electrician resources to confirm current licensing pathways and any trade-scope exemptions that may affect your work: TDLR Electricians – Exemptions.
Need official electrician requirements?
Consult the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation for current electrician license classifications, eligibility, exams, and renewal policies. Use TDLR’s website to access the latest applications and instructions.
Plumbing Licenses in Texas
The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) regulates plumbing work statewide, including core licenses, endorsements, and several registrations. Exams are administered by Pearson VUE. Most plumbing licenses renew annually and require continuing education.
Tradesman Plumber-Limited
Regulatory authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners — https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/tradesman/
Eligibility
- Experience: At least 4,000 hours of plumbing trade experience under required supervision.
Exam
Exam required; administered by Pearson VUE.
Fees
- Examination: $36
- Initial license: $35
- Renewal: $35
- Late renewal penalty: Less than 90 days — $17.50; 90+ days — $35
Renewal
Annual renewal; 6 hours of continuing education required each cycle.
Contact the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to confirm any items not listed here (e.g., application fees, documentation, and scheduling procedures) before applying.
Journeyman Plumber
Regulatory authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners — https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/
Eligibility
- Experience and eligibility are established by TSBPE rules for the journeyman level.
Exam
Exam required; administered by Pearson VUE.
Renewal
Annual renewal; 6 hours of continuing education required each cycle.
Contact the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to confirm experience prerequisites, fees, and any other items not listed here before applying.
Master Plumber
Regulatory authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners — https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/
Eligibility
- Eligibility and supervisory criteria are defined by TSBPE for the master level.
Exam
Exam required; administered by Pearson VUE.
Renewal
Annual renewal; 6 hours of continuing education required each cycle.
Contact the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to confirm qualifying experience, fees, and any other items not listed here before applying.
Plumbing Inspector
Regulatory authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners — https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/inspector/
Eligibility
- Eligibility is set by TSBPE for inspectors employed by jurisdictions or agencies authorized to enforce plumbing codes.
Exam
Exam required; administered by Pearson VUE.
Renewal
Annual renewal; 6 hours of continuing education required each cycle.
Contact the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to confirm fees, qualifying background, and any other items not listed here before applying.
Plumber’s Apprentice (Registration)
Regulatory authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners — https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/
Eligibility
- Registration status allowing individuals to work under required supervision while accruing experience.
Exam
No exam is required for apprentice registration.
Contact the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to confirm registration fees, renewal terms, and documentation before applying.
Drain Cleaner-Restricted (Registration)
Regulatory authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners — https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/registrations/
Scope
Registration category with restricted drain cleaning scope as defined by TSBPE rules.
Exam
No exam is required for this registration.
Contact the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to confirm registration fees, supervision requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Drain Cleaner (Registration)
Regulatory authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners — https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/registrations/
Scope
Registration category for drain cleaning within the scope defined by TSBPE rules.
Exam
No exam is required for this registration.
Contact the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to confirm registration fees, supervision requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Residential Utilities Installer (Registration)
Regulatory authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners — https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/registrations/
Scope
Registration category for residential utility installation as defined by TSBPE rules.
Exam
No exam is required for this registration.
Contact the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to confirm registration fees, supervision requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Medical Gas Piping Installation (Endorsement)
Regulatory authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners — https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/
Scope
Endorsement authorizing installation of medical gas piping systems when attached to an appropriate plumbing license.
Exam
Exam required; administered by Pearson VUE.
Renewal
Annual renewal; 6 hours of continuing education required each cycle.
Contact the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to confirm prerequisites, fees, and any other items not listed here before applying.
Water Supply Protection Specialist (Endorsement)
Regulatory authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners — https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/
Scope
Endorsement focusing on backflow and potable water supply protection attached to an appropriate plumbing license.
Exam
Exam required; administered by Pearson VUE.
Renewal
Annual renewal; 6 hours of continuing education required each cycle.
Contact the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to confirm prerequisites, fees, and any other items not listed here before applying.
HVAC Licenses in Texas
Texas licenses air conditioning and refrigeration (ACR) contractors and technicians through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). PSI administers examinations for contractor classes and the certified technician credential. Contractors must carry commercial general liability insurance at levels that correspond to their class of license.
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor License – Class A
Regulatory authority: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/contractor-apply.htm
Eligibility
- Experience: At least 48 months of ACR-related practical experience under a licensed contractor within the past 72 months, or an approved combination of certified technician experience and documented work history.
- Education: Alternative qualifying education/training may include degrees, diplomas, certifications, a mechanical engineering degree or Texas PE license, or applicable military training.
- Age: Minimum 18 years old.
Exam
Exam required; administered by PSI.
Fees
- Application: $115
Insurance
Commercial general liability insurance is required with at least $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate for property damage and bodily injury, and $300,000 aggregate for products and completed operations (from an insurer authorized in Texas).
Renewal
Annual renewal (continuing education requirements are set by TDLR, if applicable to the licensee).
Contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to confirm any items not listed here (e.g., exam fee, initial license/renewal fee details, and documentation) before applying.
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor License – Class B
Regulatory authority: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/contractor-apply.htm
Eligibility
- Experience: Same general experience framework as Class A, with documented ACR-related work under a licensed contractor or qualifying combinations accepted by TDLR.
- Education: Alternative qualifying education/training accepted by TDLR.
- Age: Minimum 18 years old.
Exam
Exam required; administered by PSI.
Fees
- Application: $115
Insurance
Commercial general liability insurance is required with at least $100,000 per occurrence, $200,000 aggregate for property damage and bodily injury, and $100,000 aggregate for products and completed operations (from an insurer authorized in Texas).
Renewal
Annual renewal (continuing education requirements are set by TDLR, if applicable to the licensee).
Contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to confirm any items not listed here (e.g., exam fee, initial license/renewal fee details, and documentation) before applying.
Certified Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technician
Regulatory authority: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/certified-tech-apply.htm
Eligibility
- Experience or Training: Either 24 months of supervised ACR-related work or completion of a department-approved certification program totaling 2,000 hours of combined instruction and practical experience.
- Age: Minimum 18 years old.
Exam
Exam required; administered by PSI.
Fees
- Application: $50
Renewal
Annual renewal (continuing education requirements are set by TDLR, if applicable to the credential).
Contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to confirm any items not listed here (e.g., exam fee, renewal fee, and documentation) before applying.
Registered Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technician
Regulatory authority: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/technician-apply.htm
Eligibility
- Age: Minimum 16 years old.
- Registration permits work under the supervision of a licensed ACR contractor.
Exam
No exam is required for registration.
Fees
- Application: $20
Renewal
Annual renewal (registration maintenance is governed by TDLR rules).
Contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to confirm any items not listed here (e.g., renewal fee and documentation) before applying.
Environmental Air Conditioning (Endorsement)
Regulatory authority: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/contractor-apply.htm
Scope
Endorsement selected with an ACR contractor license indicating environmental air conditioning work authorization.
Exam
Exam required; administered by PSI.
Insurance
Insurance follows the underlying contractor license class (Class A or Class B) commercial general liability minimums.
Renewal
Annual renewal, aligned with the underlying contractor license.
Contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to confirm any items not listed here (e.g., endorsement fees and documentation) before applying.
Commercial Refrigeration (Endorsement)
Regulatory authority: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/contractor-apply.htm
Scope
Endorsement selected with an ACR contractor license indicating commercial refrigeration work authorization.
Exam
Exam required; administered by PSI.
Insurance
Insurance follows the underlying contractor license class (Class A or Class B) commercial general liability minimums.
Renewal
Annual renewal, aligned with the underlying contractor license.
Contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to confirm any items not listed here (e.g., endorsement fees and documentation) before applying.
Process Cooling or Heating (Endorsement)
Regulatory authority: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/contractor-apply.htm
Scope
Endorsement selected with an ACR contractor license indicating process cooling or heating work authorization.
Exam
Exam required; administered by PSI.
Insurance
Insurance follows the underlying contractor license class (Class A or Class B) commercial general liability minimums.
Renewal
Annual renewal, aligned with the underlying contractor license.
Contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to confirm any items not listed here (e.g., endorsement fees and documentation) before applying.
General Contractor Licenses in Texas
Project delivery in Texas often involves a prime or “general” contractor coordinating multiple trades, while regulated scopes (HVAC, plumbing, and electrical) must be performed by professionals licensed under the relevant state programs described in this guide. Plan your project staffing so licensed trade contractors handle all regulated work, and ensure permits and inspections are obtained per the permitting jurisdiction’s process.
Planning a general building project?
Verify permit and plan-review steps with the jurisdiction where the project is located and confirm that regulated trades are covered by the appropriate Texas state-licensed professionals. Use the state-agency links in this guide to align trade scopes with licensing requirements.
Roofing Licenses in Texas
Roofing projects can intersect with regulated scopes when equipment, wiring, or piping are involved (for example, rooftop ACR units or related electrical connections). Coordinate with appropriately licensed HVAC and electrical professionals whenever the roof scope includes regulated systems, and follow the permitting and inspection steps required by the jurisdiction where the project takes place.
Planning roofing work?
Confirm permit requirements with the local permitting office and ensure any regulated components are installed by the corresponding Texas state-licensed trade contractor. When in doubt, consult the state-agency links provided in this guide.
Specialty Trade Licenses in Texas
Some focused scopes are authorized through endorsements attached to core licenses. The endorsement below is issued by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners and requires compliance with the base license and endorsement standards.
Multipurpose Residential Fire Protection Sprinkler Specialist (Endorsement)
Regulatory authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners — https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/
Scope
Endorsement authorizing multipurpose residential fire protection sprinkler specialist work when attached to an appropriate plumbing license.
Exam
Exam required; administered by Pearson VUE.
Renewal
Annual renewal; 6 hours of continuing education required each cycle.
Contact the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to confirm prerequisites, fees, and any other items not listed here before applying.
Application Process
- Determine the appropriate license or endorsement type and review eligibility and experience requirements.
- Complete and submit the required license or registration application form along with the applicable fee.
- Provide supporting documentation such as experience verification forms, training records, and any required criminal history questionnaires.
- Wait for the licensing authority to review eligibility and, if applicable, receive authorization to schedule required examinations.
- Schedule and pass the licensing examination through the designated exam provider when required.
- Submit proof of required insurance (for contractor licenses) and any other outstanding documents.
- Receive license or registration issuance and maintain renewal and continuing education requirements as applicable.
Timeline: Often several weeks from submission of a complete application to licensure, depending on eligibility review, exam scheduling, and background checks; applications and exam completion generally must occur within one year of the application date for certain licenses.
Online Applications
For air conditioning and refrigeration licenses and registrations, TDLR provides a central online portal: https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/acrstart.htm. Use this to start applications, access exam information, and manage renewals.
Common Application Materials
- Completed license or registration application form
- Experience verification form(s) for contractor and certified technician applicants
- Proof of completion of approved certification program when qualifying via training
- Certificate of insurance showing required commercial general liability limits for contractor licenses
- Criminal History Questionnaire if applicable
- Copy of out-of-state license and description of its requirements (for case-by-case evaluation when seeking Texas ACR contractor licensure by endorsement or substantial equivalency)
Reciprocity
Texas evaluates out-of-state air conditioning and refrigeration contractor licenses for substantial equivalency on a case-by-case basis. Applicants submit the Texas ACR Contractor License Application with the required fee, include a copy of the current out-of-state license, and describe the requirements they met to obtain it. Applicants must satisfy Texas insurance requirements and complete any additional experience or examination requirements determined by TDLR.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a contractor or trade license in Texas?
Processing commonly takes several weeks from submission of a complete application, depending on eligibility review, background checks, and exam scheduling with the designated provider. For certain licenses, all application and exam steps must be completed within one year of the application date.
Which exam providers handle Texas trade exams?
PSI administers exams for TDLR’s air conditioning and refrigeration contractor and certified technician licenses. Pearson VUE administers plumbing exams for TSBPE, including Tradesman Plumber-Limited, Journeyman, Master, Inspector, and applicable endorsements.
Can I qualify for Texas licensure if I have an out-of-state credential?
TDLR reviews out-of-state ACR contractor licenses for substantial equivalency. Approval is not automatic and may include meeting Texas insurance requirements and completing any additional experience or the Texas exam, as determined by the department.
What happens if I fail a Texas trade exam?
Retake and rescheduling policies are controlled by the designated exam provider and the licensing authority. Refer to PSI for ACR exams and Pearson VUE for plumbing exams, and review TDLR/TSBPE guidance for eligibility windows and retake procedures.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, if you are an ACR contractor: commercial general liability coverage is required and the minimums depend on license class (Class A or Class B). For other licenses and registrations, review the licensing authority’s rules and your permitting jurisdiction’s expectations for business coverage or bonds.
How do I renew my license?
Many Texas trade credentials renew annually. ACR licenses and registrations renew through TDLR. Most TSBPE plumbing licenses and endorsements renew annually and require 6 hours of continuing education per cycle. Use the official portals linked in this guide for current renewal steps and deadlines.
Is an apprentice registration required for plumbing?
TSBPE offers a Plumber’s Apprentice registration for individuals working under required supervision while accruing experience. Higher levels (such as Tradesman Plumber-Limited) require documented hours and passing the Pearson VUE exam.
Where can I find practice tests for Texas exams?
We offer comprehensive PDF practice tests for Texas contractor license exams. Each study guide typically includes 1,500–2,500 code-relevant questions with complete answer keys and reference locators pointing to exact code sections. Study offline at your own pace; no time or use limits. Browse Texas contractor practice tests.
Texas · Practice tests
Texas contractor license practice tests
The Texas practice tests we publish today: comprehensive PDF guides, typically 1,500 to 2,500 questions each, with full answer keys and reference locators to the exact code sections. We add new tests regularly, so if your license isn’t listed here, contact us and we’ll build it.
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- Texas Journeyman Electrician License Practice Test
- Texas Journeyman Industrial Electrician License Practice Test
- Texas Journeyman Lineman Electrician License Practice Test
- Texas Journeyman Sign Electrician License Practice Test
- Texas Maintenance Electrician License Practice Test
- Texas Master Electrician License (NEC Knowledge Portion) Practice Test
- Texas Master Sign Electrician License Practice Test
- Texas Residential Appliance Installer License Practice Test
- Texas Residential Wireman Electrician License Practice Test
Related Official Resources
Official Sources for Further Details:
-
Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-07 -
Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
https://tsbpe.texas.gov/compact-with-texans/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-07 -
Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/tradesman/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-07 -
Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
https://tsbpe.texas.gov/license-types/registrations/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-07 -
Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
https://tsbpe.texas.gov/free-licensee-list/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-07 -
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/contractor-apply.htm
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-07 -
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/technician-apply.htm
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-07 -
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/certified-tech-apply.htm
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-07 -
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/acrexam.htm
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-07 -
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/acrstart.htm
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-07 -
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/acrstate.htm
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-07 -
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/electricians/exemptions.htm
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-07 -
Pearson VUE
TSBPE Candidate Handbook (Pearson VUE)
Exam Provider | Accessed: 2026-10-07
Important Disclaimer
Information Currency: This guide reflects licensing information as available in 2026. Licensing requirements are subject to change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official sources.
Official Source: For current information, contact Multiple Authorities – See research notes:
- Website: https://www.tdlr.texas.gov
No Legal Advice: This guide provides general information only. Consult with the licensing board or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.
Scope Planning: Coordinate regulated scopes (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) with the appropriate Texas state-licensed professionals and follow your permitting jurisdiction’s plan review and inspection requirements.