Texas Expands Electrician Reciprocity with Arkansas to Support Skilled Workforce and Economic Growth
December 30. 2025
AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has entered into a reciprocal agreement with the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing as part of its ongoing efforts to respond to growing industry workforce needs. This agreement will allow licensed master electricians to work in either state without obtaining an additional license or taking additional tests.
“The demand for licensed master electricians across the nation continues to grow. This new agreement reflects our commitment to removing unnecessary barriers where it makes sense, while maintaining license standards. By expanding reciprocity, we are creating more opportunities for Texans and supporting a strong, mobile workforce that benefits the Texas economy,” said Courtney Arbour, TDLR executive director.
“This year, I was proud to sign House Bill 11 to encourage TDLR to pursue occupational licensure reciprocity agreements with other states,” said Texas Governor Greg Abbott. “This agreement with the State of Arkansas ensures that Texas has the master electricians needed to spur economic growth and offer good-quality, high-paying jobs. Texas will remove barriers to employment and cut red tape, so every Texan can earn a living free from unnecessary government intrusion.”
To qualify for licensing by reciprocity, applicants must hold a master electrician license in good standing issued by either state and have held the master license for at least one year before applying for licensing by reciprocity.
TDLR continues to pursue reciprocity agreements with other states that have similar licensing requirements as part of a broader effort to strengthen the Texas workforce while preserving public safety and professional standards. The state currently has master electrician reciprocity agreements with Arkansas, Louisiana, Nebraska, and North Carolina, and journeyman electrician reciprocity agreements with Arkansas, Alaska, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Wyoming.
