How many continuing education hours do I need for my Texas electrical license?

You must complete 4 hours of continuing education annually from a TDLR-approved provider. The course must cover the National Electrical Code (NEC), Texas laws and rules, and electrical safety based on NFPA 70E.

What is the renewal fee for a Master Electrician in Texas?

The annual renewal fee for a Texas Master Electrician license is $45. This fee is paid to the TDLR during the online renewal process after your continuing education hours have been reported.

What happens if I miss my Texas electrical license expiration date?

If you miss your expiration date, you will incur late renewal penalties. For up to 90 days past expiration, the fee is 1.5 times the normal rate. Between 91 days and 18 months, the fee is double. After 18 months, your license is no longer renewable and you must re-apply.

What is the current National Electrical Code (NEC) for Texas in 2025?

The mandatory standard for all electrical work in Texas is the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC), which became effective on September 1, 2023. Your 2025 renewal's 4-hour CE course will cover significant updates from this edition.

Where can I find a TDLR-approved provider for my electrical CE hours?

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) maintains a list of all approved continuing education providers on its website. You can search for providers who offer approved online courses, such as ExpertCE, for maximum flexibility.

Texas Electrical License Renewal 2025

As a licensed electrician in Texas, you’re at the heart of a thriving industry. From the bustling construction sites of Austin to the expanding energy corridors of Houston, your skills are in high demand. But with great opportunity comes great responsibility—and that starts with maintaining your professional license. The 2025 Texas electrical license renewal cycle is upon us, and staying compliant with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) is non-negotiable. This isn’t just about paperwork; it’s a commitment to safety, professionalism, and the law under which we operate, the Texas Electrical Safety and Licensing Act.

Navigating the renewal process can feel like one more task on a long list, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. With the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) now the firm standard across the state, your continuing education is more important than ever. This guide will break down everything you need to know for a smooth renewal in 2025, from CE hours to specific fees for a Journeyman electrician, Master electrician, and Residential Wireman license.

The Core Requirement: 4 Hours of Annual Continuing Education

The foundation of your annual renewal is completing four hours of continuing education from a TDLR-approved provider. This isn’t just a formality; it’s designed to keep you updated on critical code changes, safety protocols, and state regulations that impact your daily work. According to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), these four continuing education hours are mandatory for nearly all license types to ensure you remain compliant and knowledgeable. Find state-approved Texas CE courses to meet this requirement easily online.

The TDLR mandates that the 4-hour course covers specific subjects. The required coursework must address the National Electrical Code, Texas electrician laws and rules, and electrical safety. These topics include:

The National Electrical Code (NEC): Focusing on updates from the current 2023 edition.
Texas Electrical Laws and Rules: Covering Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1305 and TDLR administrative rules in Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 73.
Electrical Safety: Based on the most recent edition of electrical safety NFPA 70E.

This CE requirement applies to Master Electricians, Journeyman Electricians, Residential Wiremen, Maintenance Electricians, and several other license types. Once you complete your course, the provider is required to report CE completion directly to the TDLR on your behalf, which simplifies your renewal process. You can explore a TDLR-approved 4-hour CE course that covers all these topics.

A Breakdown by License Type: Renewal Fees and Responsibilities

While the 4-hour CE requirement is consistent across most license types, it’s critical to remember that renewal fees are not. The “Zero Assumption” rule is vital here: never assume the requirements for a Master Electrician are the same as for a Journeyman or an Electrical Contractor. Each license carries a different level of responsibility and, consequently, a different annual renewal fee. Understanding these distinctions is key to a successful TDLR electrician license renewal.

The table below outlines the differences for the most common license types. According to the TDLR, license renewal fees vary by the type of license held.

License Type	Annual Renewal Fee (Verify with TDLR)	Key Responsibilities
Master Electrician	$45	Can obtain permits, oversee projects, and supervise Journeymen and Apprentices. A Master is required to be assigned to an Electrical Contractor.
Journeyman Electrician	$30	Can work unsupervised on commercial and residential projects under the general supervision of a Master Electrician.
Residential Wireman	$20	Limited to electrical work in one- and two-family dwellings. Must work under the general supervision of a Master Electrician.
Electrical Contractor	$110	A business entity that employs a Master Electrician to offer and perform electrical work. Contractors do not have a CE requirement but must maintain proof of liability insurance.

For electricians looking to fulfill their annual training, you can find a complete list of courses for your Texas electrical license renewal CE online.

Navigating the 2025 Renewal Process: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Following a clear process ensures you won’t miss any critical steps. The TDLR has streamlined the process, making online license renewal the fastest and most efficient method. For a comprehensive overview, review this TDLR electrical license renewal 2025 guide.

Verify Your License Expiration Date: Your license is valid for one year from the date it was issued. You can find this date using the TDLR’s online license search portal. Mark your calendar and plan to complete your CE at least a few weeks before your license expiration date.
Complete Your 4 CE Hours with a TDLR-Approved Provider: Choose from a variety of online electrical courses to fulfill your requirement. These courses offer the flexibility to learn at your own pace. The provider will report your completion directly to TDLR, usually within a business day or two.
Submit Your Renewal Application Online: Once your CE hours are posted, log in to the TDLR online renewal system. You will need your license number and Social Security Number. The system will guide you through confirming your information and CE completion.
Pay the Renewal Fee: Pay the appropriate fee for your license type using a credit card. The online portal is secure and provides an immediate receipt for your records.
Confirm Your Renewal: After a few days, use the public license search on the TDLR website to confirm that your expiration date has been updated. It’s always a good practice to keep a copy of your completion certificate and renewal receipt.

The 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) and Your Renewal

The 2025 renewal cycle marks the second full year under the mandatory 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC), which became effective in Texas on September 1, 2023. This makes your continuing education more relevant than ever. The changes introduced in the 2023 NEC affect everything from GFCI requirements in dwellings to new standards for renewable energy systems.

Your 4-hour CE course is specifically designed to cover the most significant of these updates, ensuring you are not just compliant for renewal but also competent and safe in the field. Understanding these changes is critical for passing inspections, ensuring safety, and demonstrating your expertise to clients and employers. For a deeper dive, consider resources that break down the 2023 NEC updates for Texas electricians.

Don’t Get Caught by Surprise: Late Renewal Penalties

Procrastination can be costly. The TDLR has a clear structure for late renewal penalties that escalates over time. Operating with an expired license is illegal and can subject you to significant fines and disciplinary action. According to TDLR guidelines, if your license has been expired for 90 days or less, the renewal fee is 1.5 times the normal amount. If it has been expired for more than 90 days but less than 18 months, the fee doubles to 2 times the normal amount.

If your license is expired for more than 18 months, it cannot be renewed. At that point, you must re-apply for a new license, which may involve retaking the state examination. This is a situation every professional wants to avoid, so paying close attention to your expiration date is essential.

Ready to Complete Your 2025 CE Hours?

Staying on top of your Texas electrical license renewal is a hallmark of a true professional. With convenient and accessible online electrical courses, meeting your 4-hour CE requirement has never been easier. Ensure you are prepared for the year ahead and maintain your authority to work in Texas. Browse our TDLR-approved courses today and renew with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many continuing education hours do I need for my Texas electrical license?: You must complete 4 hours of continuing education annually from a TDLR-approved provider. The course must cover the NEC, Texas laws and rules, and electrical safety (NFPA 70E).
Where do I find a TDLR-approved provider?: The TDLR maintains a list of all approved continuing education providers on its website. You can search for providers who offer internet courses for maximum flexibility. ExpertCE is a trusted TDLR-approved provider for all your renewal needs.
What happens if I miss my license expiration date?: If you miss your expiration date, you will incur late renewal penalties. For up to 90 days past expiration, the fee is 1.5 times the normal rate. Between 91 days and 18 months, the fee is double. After 18 months, your license is no longer renewable, and you must start the application process over.