What Happens If My Texas Electrician License Expires?

It happens to the best of us. You get busy on the job site, and suddenly you realize your Texas electrician license has expired. Working with an expired license is illegal and can lead to severe fines from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

If your license has lapsed, here is exactly what happens next and the fastest way to get back in good standing.

1. Late Fees and Penalties

The TDLR operates on a strict late fee schedule. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to renew:

• Expired 1 to 90 days: Your renewal fee is multiplied by 1.5.
• Expired 91 days to 18 months: Your renewal fee is doubled (multiplied by 2).

2. Do I Have to Retake the State Exam?

If your license has been expired for less than 18 months, you do not have to retake the exam. You only need to pay the late fee and complete your 4 hours of continuing education.

If your license has been expired for 18 months to 3 years, you must request special permission from the executive director to renew. If it has been over 3 years, you cannot renew; you must apply for a brand new license and retake the exam.

3. The Fastest Way to Fix It

Before you can pay your late fee and renew, you must complete your 4 hours of TDLR-approved continuing education. The state system will not let you process the renewal until an approved provider reports your hours.