Electrical Contractor
An Electrical Contractor (TECL) license authorizes the business to bid, contract for, and perform electrical work in Texas. Every TECL must designate a qualifying Master Electrician whose individual license backs the contractor license, must carry general liability insurance, and is renewed annually. The TECL is the license a homeowner verifies when hiring a company; the named Master Electrician is the individual whose qualifications support the contractor's authority. Some Texas cities require additional local registration before pulling permits.
HVAC Contractor
An HVAC Contractor license authorizes a business to install, alter, repair, and service air conditioning and refrigeration equipment in Texas. A Class A license covers equipment over 25 tons; Class B covers under 25 tons. The contractor must designate a Responsible A/C Contractor whose name backs the license and is named on every contract. The license does not cover gas-fired equipment outside the HVAC system, electrical work beyond the unit disconnect, or refrigerant handling for technicians, which requires federal EPA Section 608 certification.
A/C Technician
An A/C Technician license authorizes a person to perform HVAC installation, alteration, and service work in Texas under the direct authority of a licensed HVAC Contractor. A Certified (CER) technician has passed the TDLR exam and accumulated verifiable field experience; a Registered (REG) technician is in the entry pathway. Neither status authorizes contracting for work independently — only a licensed contractor may bid and contract. Refrigerant handling additionally requires federal EPA Section 608 certification.
Residential Wireman
A Residential Wireman license authorizes the holder to install, alter, and repair electrical wiring in one- and two-family dwellings in Texas. The license is narrower in scope than a Journeyman Electrician license — commercial and industrial wiring is out of scope. Qualification requires 4,000 hours of experience plus the TDLR exam, and annual renewal includes continuing education on the current National Electrical Code.