General Contractor / Texas
2026 data Texas board official source

Texas General Contractor License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Oversees construction projects. Requirements vary significantly by state.

What the Texas data shows for General Contractors

Texas's path to general contractor licensure runs through board-approved instruction, 4 years of supervised work experience, and a passing score on State Contractor License Exam, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Texas folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Experience plus Exam".

The initial price tag is $75, and renewal costs $75 every 2 years. Applications usually take around 4 weeks to process once complete. Texas doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

On reciprocity, general contractors should know: Usually not reciprocal — state-by-state basis.

Licensing Requirements in Texas

Education / Training Hours
Experience plus Exam
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State Contractor License Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$299
Renewal Fee
$246
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
4 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$75
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$75
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
4 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
Not required
Compare fees across all states for General Contractor →

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Compare all states for General Contractor All Texas licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Texas licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for General Contractor in Texas? ▼
In Texas, the license path calls for, a passing score on State Contractor License Exam, and a $299 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a General Contractor in Texas? ▼
Texas licenses general contractors who complete its requirements (4 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Texas licensing board.
Can I transfer my General Contractor license to Texas from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for general contractors nationally works like this: Usually not reciprocal — state-by-state basis. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Texas. Verify the specifics with the Texas licensing board.
Does Texas require a background check for General Contractor licensing? ▼
Yes, Texas requires a criminal background check as part of the general contractor licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
How much does it cost to get a General Contractor license in Texas? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Texas is $75. The renewal fee is $75 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 4 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does General Contractor license processing take in Texas? ▼
In Texas, license processing for general contractors typically takes approximately 4 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.