How to Meet Continuing Education Requirements for Texas Electricians

Key Takeaways

• 4 hours of annual CE required for Texas electricians
• Applies to Master, Journeyman, and Apprentice Electricians
• Courses must cover ****National Electric Code, safety (NFPA 70E), and Texas laws
• Find TDLR-approved providers on the TDLR website
• Annual license renewal needed with CE proof
• Renewal fees vary based on license expiration status
• Licensees must track and verify their CE hours

Texas electricians must stay up-to-date with their licensing requirements to maintain their professional status and meet state regulations. This article gives Texas electricians a detailed overview of the continuing education (CE) requirements for the TDLR license renewal process.

CE Requirements Overview

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) mandates that electrician licensees complete 4 hours of continuing education annually. This requirement applies to:

• Master Electricians
• Journeyman Electricians
• Residential Wiremen
• Maintenance Electricians
• Master Sign Electricians
• Journeyman Sign Electricians
• Apprentice Electricians
• Apprentice Sign Electricians

It's important to note that contractors and residential appliance installers are exempt from this CE requirement.

Course Content

TDLR-approved CE courses must cover the following topics:

1. National Electric Code (NEC)
2. Safety (NFPA 70E)
3. Texas state laws and rules regulating license holders

Completing CE Courses

To fulfill the CE requirements, electricians should:

• Take courses from TDLR-approved providers.
• Complete courses within the current license term.
• Ensure one hour of CE equals 50 minutes of actual instruction time.

Ready to get started? Our recommended TDLR-approved course helps Texas electricians complete their requirements online. See the step-by-step enrollment guide.

Finding CE Providers

To find TDLR-approved continuing education providers, electricians can visit the TDLR Continuing Education Provider page. This page lists all available CE courses, allowing electricians to select providers that best fit their learning preferences and schedules.

License Renewal Process

Texas electrician licenses are valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Here's a step-by-step guide to renewing your license:

1. Complete CE requirements: Finish the required 4 hours of CE before your license expiration date.
2. Track your CE hours: Maintain personal records of completed courses, even though providers report hours to TDLR.
3. Prepare renewal documents: Gather your license number, personal identification details, and proof of completed CE hours (if not reported automatically).
4. Complete online renewal: Visit the TDLR website to renew your license. Select 'Electricians Program' and follow the prompts to enter your information and pay the renewal fee.
5. Monitor application status: Keep an eye on your email and the TDLR website for updates on your renewal status.
6. Receive renewed license: Once approved, you'll receive a new license valid for the next renewal cycle.

Renewal Fees and Deadlines

Renewal fees vary based on license type and expiration status:

Licenses expired for over 36 months cannot be renewed, and you'll need to reapply as a new applicant.

CE Reporting and Verification

CE providers are responsible for reporting completed hours to TDLR. However, licensees should:

• Check reported hours on the TDLR website.
• Contact the provider if hours are not reported.
• File a complaint with TDLR if reporting issues persist.

Special Considerations

Apprentices

Electrical apprentices and electrical sign apprentices can either:

• Complete 4 hours of CE, or
• Be enrolled in a TDLR-registered electrical apprenticeship training course.

Criminal History

Applicants with criminal convictions must:

• Provide a completed criminal history questionnaire with their application.
• Be aware that TDLR conducts criminal history background checks on all applicants.
• Understand that licenses may be denied based on the nature and timing of convictions.

Tips for Successful License Renewal

For a smooth renewal process:

• Stay informed about requirement changes.
• Choose relevant CE courses that align with your professional needs.
• Maintain personal records of completed courses.
• Set reminders for your license expiration date.
• Renew early to avoid late fees or license expiration.

Complete your continuing education credits and submit renewal paperwork on time to keep your Texas electrician license active. Managing your license requirements helps you stay compliant with TDLR regulations and continue working in Texas as an electrician. TDLR sends renewal notices, but tracking your own deadlines and keeping records of your completed CE hours puts you in control of your license status. Visit TDLR's website to verify current requirements for your license type.