Requirements, Fees & How to Apply — 2026 Guide
Texas requires general contractor contractors to hold a general contractor license. A state exam is required. Application fees start at 175. Licenses renew 2 years. Bond required: 10000. Insurance: true. Governing body: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Data verified 2026.
Step-by-step application process.
Texas requires licensing mainly for specific trades. General contractor licensing is primarily local.
Yes. Texas requires general contractor contractors to hold a general contractor license. Texas requires licensing mainly for specific trades. General contractor licensing is primarily local.
In Texas, the application fee is typically 175. Exam fees are 65. License fees are 200. Renewal is 175 per 2 years cycle.
Yes, Texas requires passing a licensing exam for general contractor contractors. The exam typically covers state laws and regulations plus trade-specific knowledge.
Texas general contractor licenses renew 2 years. Renewal fees are 175. Many states require continuing education for renewal. Contact Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) for current renewal requirements.
Yes, Texas has reciprocity agreements with: LA, NM. Contractors licensed in these states may qualify for expedited or waived requirements. Contact Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) for current reciprocity details.
Compare requirements in nearby states — useful if you work across state lines.
Once you're licensed, the right software keeps projects on budget and on schedule.