What are the new 2025 continuing education requirements for Texas electricians?

For licenses expiring on or after September 1, 2024, the annual 4-hour CE requirement consists of 3 hours on the National Electrical Code (NEC) and 1 hour on Texas Electrical Law and Rules. This change aligns with the state's adoption of the 2023 NEC.

Is the electrical safety (NFPA 70E) course still required for Texas CE renewal?

No, the new curriculum has removed the previously mandated hour on electrical safety (NFPA 70E). That time has been reallocated to provide a more in-depth review of the National Electrical Code (NEC).

Which Texas electrical licenses require 4 hours of continuing education?

The 4-hour annual CE requirement applies to Master Electricians, Journeyman Electricians, Residential Wiremen, Master Sign Electricians, Journeyman Sign Electricians, Journeyman Linemen, and Maintenance Electricians.

Do electrical apprentices in Texas need to complete continuing education?

No, Electrical Apprentices and Electrical Sign Apprentices are exempt from CE requirements for license renewal. Their focus is on supervised on-the-job experience and formal training programs.

What is the CE requirement for a Texas Electrical Contractor license?

The Electrical Contractor license itself does not have a separate CE requirement. However, the contractor must designate a licensed Master Electrician who is responsible for meeting their own individual 4-hour CE requirement.

Texas Electrical Continuing Education: Meet TDLR Rules

Q: What version of the National Electrical Code (NEC) is Texas currently using?

Texas officially adopted the 2023 edition of the National Electrical Code (NEC), with enforcement beginning on November 1, 2023. All required continuing education courses are now based on this updated code.

In the fast-paced world of the Texas electrical industry, standing still means falling behind. Between a booming construction market and evolving technology, the one constant is change. This is especially true when it comes to the rules and codes that govern your license. For tens of thousands of licensed electricians across the state, completing annual continuing education isn’t just a box to check—it’s a critical component of professional development, ensuring you work safely, efficiently, and in full compliance. But the requirements themselves are changing. Starting in late 2024, the very structure of your required CE has shifted, making it more important than ever to understand exactly what you need to do for your Texas electrical license renewal.

This guide cuts through the noise to deliver the essential facts on Texas electrical continuing education. We’ll break down the new curriculum, clarify requirements for every license type, and explain how to choose the right courses to keep your career on track.

A Major Shift for 2025 Renewals: The New 4-Hour CE Curriculum

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has updated the continuing education curriculum for all electricians. If your license expires on or after September 1, 2024, you will need to follow the new structure for your annual 4-hour CE requirement. This change aligns training with the state’s adoption of the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC).

According to the TDLR Electrician Continuing Education page (source: https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/electricians/elecce.htm), the updated 4-hour CE course is now composed of:

3 hours on the National Electrical Code (NEC): This portion is dedicated to changes and key articles within the latest state-adopted code book. With Texas now enforcing the 2023 NEC, this in-depth review is crucial.
1 hour on Texas Electrical Law and Rules: This covers state-specific regulations found in the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1305, and the Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 73.

This new format removes the previously mandated hour on electrical safety (NFPA 70E), reallocating that time to provide a deeper dive into the National Electrical Code (NEC). While NFPA 70E remains an essential standard for job site safety, it is no longer a specific, mandatory component of the renewal curriculum. For a detailed look at the new course, consider a TDLR-approved course that covers the latest code updates.

Texas CE Requirements: Who Needs to Complete 4 Hours?

A common point of confusion is which licenses require continuing education. The “Zero Assumption” rule is critical here: never assume requirements are the same across the board. According to the TDLR’s license renewal page (source: https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/electricians/elecrenew.htm), the rules are clear and specific to the license type.

Licenses Requiring 4 Hours of Annual CE:

If you hold one of the following licenses, you must complete four hours of approved CE annually to renew. This applies to both master electrician CEU and journeyman electrician continuing education.

Master Electrician
Journeyman Electrician
Residential Wireman License
Master Sign Electrician
Journeyman Sign Electrician
Journeyman Lineman
Maintenance Electrician

Licenses EXEMPT From CE Requirements:

Electrical Apprentice & Electrical Sign Apprentice: Apprentices are not required to complete continuing education for renewal. Their focus is on supervised on-the-job experience and, for many, formal electrician apprenticeship training through an electrician school or program.
Electrical Contractor & Electrical Sign Contractor: The contractor license itself, which represents the business entity, does not have a separate CE requirement. However, a contractor must designate a licensed Master Electrician or Master Sign Electrician who is responsible for meeting their own individual 4-hour CE requirement.

Navigating the full renewal process can be complex. For a step-by-step walkthrough, our TDLR Electrical License Renewal 2025 Guide provides a comprehensive overview.

The Pillars of Your CE: Why Code and Law Matter

The TDLR’s focus on the NEC and state rules isn’t arbitrary. These two pillars are the foundation of safe and legal electrical work in Texas, and understanding them is key to your professional success.

National Electrical Code (NEC)

Texas officially adopted the 2023 edition of the NFPA 70, known as the National Electrical Code (NEC), with enforcement beginning on November 1, 2023. As the benchmark for safe electrical design, installation, and inspection, staying current with the NEC is non-negotiable. Your CE course will focus on significant changes from the previous code cycle, helping you avoid costly errors, pass inspections, and ensure the safety of your installations. From new AFCI/GFCI requirements to updated rules on renewable energy systems, these changes directly impact your daily work, whether you’re a residential electrician or a commercial master electrician.

Texas Electrical Law and Rules

While the NEC governs the “how,” state regulations govern the “who” and “what.” The mandatory hour on Texas electrical law and rules covers the legal framework you operate within. This includes understanding the scope of your specific license, supervision ratios, and your responsibilities under Occupations Code Chapter 1305 and Texas Administrative Code Chapter 73. Violating these rules can lead to fines or license suspension, making this part of your CE just as critical as the technical code updates.

Finding a TDLR Approved Provider for Online Electrical Courses

To receive credit for your hard work, you must complete your hours with a TDLR approved provider. The department maintains a list of official providers, and you should always verify a provider’s status before purchasing a course. When choosing, look for their official TDLR provider #, which should be clearly displayed.

Many professionals now opt for online electrical continuing education due to its unmatched flexibility. These courses allow you to learn at your own pace, fitting education around your demanding work schedule. You can complete your renewal from your home or office, eliminating the need to travel or lose a day’s work. ExpertCE is a TDLR-approved provider offering comprehensive Texas electrician continuing education designed to meet the new 2025 renewal requirements.

Don’t wait until the last minute to complete your training. A straightforward approach to renewal can prevent any lapse in your license. If you need a complete overview of the process, be sure to review a trusted guide on renewing your Texas electrical license.

Stay Current, Stay Compliant, and Keep Building

Your Texas electrical license is one of your most valuable professional assets. Protecting it through timely and accurate continuing education is an investment in your career. By understanding the new 4-hour curriculum, knowing the specific requirements for your license type, and choosing a trusted TDLR-approved provider, you can handle your Texas electrical license renewal with confidence. Stay informed, stay compliant, and continue powering the future of Texas.