How to Get Your TDLR Electrician Hours Signed off

Key Takeaways

• Accurate record-keeping is crucial for hour verification
• TDLR allows a maximum of 2,000 hours per year to be counted
• Use the Experience Verification Form for each employer
• Contact TDLR if you encounter challenges in the verification process
• Stay current with continuing education requirements

Getting your hours verified by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) is a required step in advancing your electrician career in Texas. This guide walks you through the entire hours verification process in clear, straightforward terms, from tracking your hours to submitting your documentation.

Understanding TDLR Hour Requirements

TDLR sets these work experience standards:

‍TDLR limits verification to 2,000 hours per year

Tracking Your Hours

Accurate record-keeping is crucial for the hour verification process. Here are some tips:

• Maintain detailed logs of your work hours
• Keep pay stubs and employment records
• Request letters from employers verifying your hours
• Use the TDLR Experience Verification Form (Form ELC017) for each employer

Understanding Experience Verification Form ELC017

The Experience Verification Form requires detailed information about your work history, including:

• Your personal information and license number (if applicable)
• Employer's information, including their electrical contractor license number
• Dates of employment
• Total hours worked
• Types of electrical work performed

Getting Your Hours Signed Off

To get your hours signed off, follow these steps:

1. Identify Qualified Supervisors: Licensed master electricians or electrical contractors must verify your hours.
2. Contact Previous Employers: Reach out to your past supervisors to sign off on your hours. If direct contact isn't possible, try:
   • Contacting the Electrical Contractor the Master Electrician worked under
   • Using the TDLR license search tool to find contact information
3. Complete the Experience Verification Form:
   • Fill out the form accurately with your personal information and work details
   • Ensure your supervisor signs the form
4. Submit Documentation to TDLR:
   • Compile all completed Experience Verification Forms
   • Include any additional required documentation
   • Submit via mail, fax, or online upload

Common Challenges and Solutions

Incomplete Records

If you're missing records, try:

• Reconstructing your work history using tax returns and old calendars
• Requesting records from previous employers' HR departments

Unavailable Supervisors

If a former supervisor is unavailable:

• Contact the company's current management
• Reach out to TDLR for guidance on alternative verification methods

Hour Calculation Discrepancies

To avoid mistakes:

• Keep detailed personal records of your work hours
• Regularly verify your hours with your supervisor
• Understand TDLR's 2,000-hour annual limit

Next Steps After Hour Verification

Once your hours are verified:

1. Apply for the Appropriate License:
   • Submit a completed license application form
   • Pay the required fee ($20 for Residential Wireman, $30 for Journeyman, $45 for Master)
2. Prepare for the Licensing Exam:
   • Study the National Electrical Code (NEC)
   • Review Texas Electrician Law and Administrative Rules
   • Consider exam prep courses or materials
3. Complete Continuing Education:
   • All license types require 4 hours of continuing education annually
   • Apprentices may enroll in a registered apprenticeship training course instead

Downloadable Resources

You can download the TDLR Experience Verification Form (Form ELC017) here.

Logging your hours is a necessary step in being a qualified electrician in Texas. It is a process that makes sure every licensed electrician in Texas has the experience they need to do the job right. It takes time and patience. Stay persistent and keep detailed records. If you need help, don't hesitate to contact TDLR. Every master electrician in Texas started out as an apprentice, logging their hard working hours. If you stay diligent, you will also reach your goal of progressing your electrician career.