Texas Expands Electrician Reciprocity with Tennessee to Support Skilled Workforce and Economic Growth

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has entered into a reciprocal agreement with the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors as part of its ongoing efforts to respond to growing industry workforce needs. This agreement will allow licensed master electricians and master electrical contractors to work in either state under a streamlined licensing process.

“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 Tennessee 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.”

“The demand for licensed electricians continues to grow nationwide, and Texas is taking action to meet it. This new agreement removes unnecessary barriers while maintaining our high licensing standards,” TDLR Executive Director Courtney Arbour. “By recognizing comparable credentials, we’re opening doors for skilled electricians and supporting continued economic growth across our state.”

To qualify for license by reciprocity, applicants must hold a state master electrician license in Texas or a state electrical contractor license in Tennessee in good standing for at least one year and gained their license by passing that state’s administered exam. Each state’s prerequisites must still be met including, but not limited to, journeyman licensure and Tennessee business and law management exam requirements. A Tennessee electrical contractor license is substantially equivalent to a Texas master electrician license.

House Bill 11, which was signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott on May 29, 2025, directed TDLR and other state agencies to pursue reciprocity agreements with other states to expand economic opportunities for Texans.

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 Alabama, Arkansas, Iowa, Louisiana, Nebraska, North Carolina, and Ohio and journeyman agreements with Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wyoming.

Electricians interested in applying for licensure through reciprocity may do so at: www.tdlr.texas.gov/electricians/out-of-state.htm

About TDLR

TDLR provides regulatory oversight for a broad range of occupations, businesses, facilities, and equipment in Texas, including the Texas Lottery and Charitable Bingo programs. The agency protects the health and safety of Texans by ensuring they are served by qualified, licensed professionals. Inspections of individuals, businesses, and equipment are done on a regular basis to safeguard the public. Currently, the agency regulates 41 business and occupational licensing programs with more than 1,000,000 licensees across the state.

Visit TDLR’s website for more information and resources. You can search the TDLR licensee database, and also find past violations in which a final order was issued against companies or individuals. TDLR’s Customer Service line is available anytime between 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 1-800-803-9202.