Texas Contractor License Requirements
Find licensing requirements for 30 contractor trades in Texas. Select a trade below to see detailed fees, exams, and step-by-step instructions.
Texas Licensing Overview
Texas requires state-level licensing for 15 out of 30 contractor trades covered in this guide. The remaining 15 trades do not require a state license, though local jurisdictions (cities and counties) may have their own permit or registration requirements.
Licensing is handled by various state agencies depending on the trade. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing authority before beginning your application, as fees and regulations can change.
Asbestos Abatement
Asbestos Abatement
$530
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Boiler Technician
Boiler Technician
$335
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Carpenter
Carpenter
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Demolition Contractor
Demolition Contractor
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Electrician
Electrician
$300
Total Cost
4 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Elevator Mechanic
Elevator Mechanic
$510
Total Cost
4 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Excavation Contractor
Excavation Contractor
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Fencing Contractor
Fencing Contractor
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Fire Sprinkler Installer
Fire Sprinkler Installer
$450
Total Cost
4 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Flooring Contractor
Flooring Contractor
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
General Contractor
General Contractor
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Glazier
Glazier
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Home Inspector
Home Inspector
$480
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
HVAC Technician
HVAC Technician
$330
Total Cost
3 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Insulation Contractor
Insulation Contractor
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Ironworker
Ironworker
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Landscaper
Landscaper
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Lead Paint Abatement
Lead Paint Abatement
$410
Total Cost
1 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Low Voltage Technician
Low Voltage Technician
$260
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Mason
Mason
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Painting Contractor
Painting Contractor
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Pest Control
Pest Control
$245
Total Cost
1 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Pipefitter
Pipefitter
$305
Total Cost
4 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Plumber
Plumber
$305
Total Cost
4 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Roofing Contractor
Roofing Contractor
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Septic System Installer
Septic System Installer
$300
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Sheet Metal Worker
Sheet Metal Worker
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Solar Installer
Solar Installer
$430
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Welder
Welder
$0
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Well Driller
Well Driller
$435
Total Cost
3 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Tips for Getting Licensed in Texas
- Start early. Many licenses require years of experience or apprenticeship hours. Plan your career path well in advance.
- Keep documentation. Maintain records of all work experience, training hours, and certifications. You will need these for your application.
- Budget for all costs. Beyond application and license fees, factor in exam prep materials, insurance premiums, and bond costs.
- Check local requirements. Even if a state license is not required for your trade, your city or county may require a local business license or contractor registration.
- Stay current. Most licenses require renewal every 1-3 years. Some trades require continuing education credits for renewal.