Houston Contractor License (2026): Is One Required? What You Need
Houston does not issue or require a general contractor license — neither the city nor the State of Texas licenses GCs. Permits are pulled project-by-project through the Houston Permitting Center (832-394-8803). Specialty trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) are licensed separately by the state (TDLR/TSBPE).
No general contractor license required
Houston does not issue or require a general contractor license — neither the city nor the State of Texas licenses GCs. Permits are pulled project-by-project through the Houston Permitting Center (832-394-8803). Specialty trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) are licensed separately by the state (TDLR/TSBPE).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a general contractor license in Houston?
Houston does not issue or require a general contractor license — neither the city nor the State of Texas licenses GCs. Permits are pulled project-by-project through the Houston Permitting Center (832-394-8803). Specialty trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) are licensed separately by the state (TDLR/TSBPE).
Next steps
You know the requirements for general contractors in Texas— here's how to actually pass and apply.
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Last verified 2026-06-10 · Operator-verified