Texas Contractors License Guide

How To Get Your Contractors License In Texas

Are you currently working in the Texas construction industry and ready to optimize your career opportunities? Although there is no state license for contractors in Texas, general contracting is regulated at the local level. 

Each city has its own rules and laws regarding licensing and contracting work. Additionally, certain types of contractors are required by the state to obtain a license prior to doing work. These include: 

• Electricians
• Plumbers
• HVAC contractors
• Well drilling specialists
• Pump installation specialists
• Refrigeration and fire systems specialists
• Landscapers and interior designers
• Engineers
• Architects
• Surveyors 

Our team here @HomePrep has helped students with various Texas contractor licensing and renewals for years and we offer exam prep and CE credits.

Contractors License Requirements

Texas contractors are required to register as a business with the Texas Secretary of State. You’ll need to select your business structure, such as sole proprietorship or LLC partnership, and provide your business start up information.

Which License Is Right For You?

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation issues:

• Electrical Contractor Licenses
• HVAC Contractor Licenses
• Water Well Driller Contractor Licenses

For plumbing contractors, contact the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.

Since there are no state guidelines for general contractors, you’ll need to research the requirements set forth by local authorities or municipalities for:

• General contractor license
• Specialty contractor license
• Roofing contractor license
• Home improvement contractor license

Steps to Get Your License

Step 1  – Take A Course & Prepare For Your Exam

If applying for plumbing, electrical or HVAC licenses, applicants must pass the pre-license test and provide scores to the state with their application. Start by taking the right Texas Contractor Licensing course for your exam.

Step 2 – Take Your Exam  

You can schedule your exam through PSI here.  

Step 3 –  Register Your Business

The first step for any Texas contractor is to register as a business with the Texas Secretary of State.

Step 4 –  Obtain insurance and/or contractor license bond

Depending on your license, you may need to obtain any or all of the following:

1. Workers Compensation
2. General Liability Insurance
3. General Contractors Bond

Step 5 – Submit Application

Complete and submit the application, with the appropriate licensing authority for which you are applying.  You will also submit an application fee (this varies).

Online Course for Exam Prep

We specialize in contractor licensing, helping contractors grow their careers through exam prep and continuing education. 

We offer review for the Texas HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical licenses through a home study/online course format.  

These courses include:

• Online Access To Course 24/7
• Test Taking Tips
• Highlighting Guides
• Practice Tests
• Pre-printed Permanent Tabs
• Free Shipping
• Instructor Support 7 Days a Week

Related Resources & Links

Popular State Contractor Exam Prep Courses

Texas Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Exam Review

Texas Electrical Exam Review

Texas Journeyman/Master Sign Electrician Exam Review

Useful Links & Information

Texas Secretary of State

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

Looking for Continuing Education courses? 

Texas Air Conditioning Continuing Education (8 Hours)

Texas Electrical 2020 NEC Continuing Education (4 Hours)

Testimonials & Reviews

“As a busy contractor, it is nice to find a valuable source that can help fulfill my obligations from testing prep to CEU requirements. I recommend AtHomePrep for any and all license and training needs.”

— Ken R

“I have finally experienced customer satisfaction in the highest form. You guys are so much more than a voice or words on the other side of the phone or screen, you are all real people who really care!”

Soo C