Texas Expands Electrician Reciprocity with Iowa to Support Skilled Workforce and Economic Growth
AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has entered into a reciprocal agreement with the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, & 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.
“Texas continues to take a common-sense approach to occupational licensing by reducing unnecessary barriers while protecting public safety,” said Courtney Arbour, TDLR executive director. “Expanding reciprocity with Iowa supports a strong, mobile workforce and helps meet the growing demand for skilled trades across our state.”
“Last 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 Iowa ensures that Texas has the master electricians needed to spur economic growth and offer good[1]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.
Texas currently has master electrician reciprocity agreements with Arkansas, Iowa, Louisiana, Nebraska, and North Carolina, and journeyman electrician reciprocity agreements with Arkansas, Alaska, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Wyoming.