Contractor Licensing in Texas: Which Trades Need a License
Yes, Texas requires a statewide license for 3 of 5 contractor trades, issued by 2 separate agencies. Initial costs run $103 to $128.
Texas does not require a statewide license for general contractors or roofing contractors. However, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians must be licensed at the state level through separate agencies. Many cities (Dallas, Austin, Houston, San Antonio) have their own local contractor registration requirements.
General Contractor
Not requiredOversees and manages construction projects, coordinating subcontractors, materials, and timelines for residential and commercial builds.
View full requirements →Electrician
RequiredInstalls, maintains, and repairs electrical wiring, systems, and fixtures in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
View full requirements →Plumber
RequiredInstalls and repairs water supply lines, drainage systems, fixtures, and appliances in buildings and other structures.
View full requirements →HVAC Technician
RequiredInstalls, services, and repairs heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
View full requirements →Roofing Contractor
Not requiredInstalls, repairs, and replaces roofing systems on residential and commercial structures.
View full requirements →Texas Licensing Overview
Texas requires statewide licensing for 3 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — electrician, plumber, hvac technician — are regulated by 2 separate agencies: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE). General Contractor and Roofing Contractor licensing is handled at the city and county level rather than statewide. Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $103 to $128, including application fees, exams, license issuance, fingerprinting, and any other fees the state requires to obtain the license.
Texas Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| Electrician | $30 | $78 | — | — | $108 |
| Plumber | $50 | $78 | — | — | $128 |
| HVAC Technician | $25 | $78 | — | — | $103 |
| Roofing Contractor | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
Estimated totals include application, exam, license, and fingerprinting fees, plus any other fees the state requires to obtain the license. Bond amounts are separate and typically paid as an annual premium.
Set up the business before you apply in Texas
Most states license the company as well as the person, so the application usually asks for an LLC or corporation and a registered agent in Texas. Northwest forms the entity and acts as your registered agent — a flat fee, no upsell funnel.
Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Form an LLC with Northwest→Key Facts About Texas Contractor Licensing
- No state mandate, but GL and workers comp strongly recommended. Many clients require proof of insurance.
- Texas does not require a statewide license for general contractor or roofing contractors. Local permits may still apply.
- Licensed through TSBPE (separate from TDLR, which handles electricians and HVAC)
- EPA 608 certification also required for refrigerant handling
You're licensed in Texas — the next 30 days
Most of the steps below are required before your first paid job; the order is the order the state and its counties will ask for them.
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Form the business and get an EIN.
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation issues the Journeyman / Master Electrician; the business that invoices Texas customers is a separate decision. A sole proprietorship is the default, an LLC keeps business liability off your personal assets, and either needs an EIN before the first payroll. Settle it before the license number goes on an estimate.
Bond: none required by the state.
Texas does not require a surety bond for this license.
Carry general liability insurance.
Texas does not set a general liability minimum for this trade, but most permits and commercial customers ask for proof of GL cover. Workers' compensation is recommended but not mandated. Contractor insurance requirements→
Set up quoting, scheduling and invoicing before the first call.
Your first customers will ask for a written estimate and expect to pay by card on site. Most one-truck home-service businesses run that on field-service software; Housecall Pro is the one we link because it is built for this size of company and this link carries 20% off your first 12 months. Start a free trial of Housecall Pro→
Cities in Texas
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Texas require a contractor license?
Yes, Texas requires statewide licensing for 3 of 5 trades: electrician, plumber, hvac technician. General Contractor and Roofing Contractor do not require a statewide license.
How much does a contractor license cost in Texas?
Initial licensing costs range from $103 to $128 depending on the trade, including application, exam, license and fingerprinting fees, plus any other fees the state requires to obtain the license.
Does Texas have license reciprocity with other states?
Texas does not currently have reciprocity agreements with other states. Contractors from other states must apply and meet the full requirements.
What trades require a state license in Texas?
Texas requires statewide licenses for: electrician, plumber, hvac technician. General Contractor and Roofing Contractor licensing is handled at the local level.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in Texas?
No state mandate, but GL and workers comp strongly recommended. Many clients require proof of insurance.
Official Texas Licensing Resources
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) — for electrician, hvac technician
- Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) — for plumber