Does Texas require a general contractor license?
Answered by AskBaily Editorial · Updated
Short answer
No. Texas does NOT issue a state-level general contractor license. The Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR) licenses individual trade cards only — electrical, plumbing, HVAC, AC contractor, irrigator. For residential work above $1,000 in Austin, the Austin Code Department's Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Registration is the definitive city-level credential. Always verify both the HIC and the trade cards.
In detail
No. Texas does NOT issue a state-level general contractor license. The Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR) licenses individual trade cards only — electrical, plumbing, HVAC, AC contractor, irrigator. For residential work above $1,000 in Austin, the Austin Code Department's Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Registration is the definitive city-level credential. Always verify both the HIC and the trade cards.
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