Occupational Licensure and State Reciprocity Disclosures (HB 1508)
What is an occupational license?
An occupational license is a legal requirement imposed by a government authority (state, federal, or local) that gives permission to practice a specific occupation.
Note: This is different than a voluntary/ employer-supported certification or credential.
What do I need to know before I enroll in a program leading to occupational licensure at Dallas College?
- Completion of a program at Dallas College does not guarantee eligibility for licensure (or certification).
- A state licensing entity may require Verification of Lawful Presence; per federal law, a person who is NOT a U.S. citizen or national is not eligible for a professional or commercial license issued by a state unless specific documentation can be provided.
- An individual who has been convicted of an offense may be ineligible for issuance of an occupational license upon completion of the educational program.
- Each licensing authority that may issue an occupational license to an individual who completes an educational program must establish guidelines that state the reasons a particular crime is considered to relate to a particular license and any other criterion that affects the decisions of the licensing authority.
- Local or county licensing authorities may issue additional guidelines related to criminal history. Applicants should contact their respective local or county licensing authority for more details.
- A person may request a criminal history evaluation letter regarding the personal eligibility for a license issued by a licensing authority under Texas Occupations Code Section 53.102.
- Prior to enrolling in a program at Dallas College, students are strongly encouraged to consult the appropriate licensure or certification authority in the state in which they intend to seek licensure to determine whether the program meets that state’s requirements.
- Additional information about national licensure for specific professions is available on the Professional Licensure, U.S. Department of Education webpage.
What if I am an online student and live in a state other than Texas?
- Many Dallas College programs lead to licensure in the State of Texas. If a potential student resides in another state- and cannot be assured that a license reciprocates to the state where they live or plan to live- they cannot enroll.
The following list highlights occupations in which a license is required to work in Texas. This license may or may not be reciprocal to other states. Please be advised that this information is subject to change at any time.
Accounting
Advanced Technical Certificate in Professional Accountancy (52.0301)
Substantial Equivalency allows licensed CPAs to practice across state lines more readily without obtaining additional licenses for certain types of work. A CPA in good standing from a state meeting substantial equivalency requirements can typically provide services in other states on a temporary or occasional basis, but ongoing practice or physical presence in another state may still require additional licensing or registration.
Culinary and Pastry Arts
Bakery/Pastry AAS (12.0501)
ServSafe Food Manager is an ANAB‑CFP (ANSI/ANAB) accredited Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) exam and is recognized by most federal, state, county, and local health jurisdictions nationwide. A Texas Food Handler Card is issued under Texas DSHS‑accredited training programs and is not automatically recognized by other states. Food handler training is regulated at the state or local level.
Culinary Arts AAS (12.0503)
ServSafe Food Manager is an ANAB‑CFP (ANSI/ANAB) accredited Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) exam and is recognized by most federal, state, county, and local health jurisdictions nationwide. A Texas Food Handler Card is issued under Texas DSHS‑accredited training programs and is not automatically recognized by other states. Food handler training is regulated at the state or local level.
Insurance
Insurance Agent and Insurance Customer Service Representative (52.17)
Most states are reciprocal with Texas under the National Association of Insurance Commissioners/ National Insurance Producer Registry (NAIC/NIPR) uniform licensing framework. Specific state information may be located via https://nipr.com/licensing-center/state-requirements
Real Estate
Real Estate AAS (52.1501)
A Texas real estate license does not automatically reciprocate to other states. Each state licenses real estate independently.
Real Estate Certificate I (52.1501)
A Texas real estate license does not automatically reciprocate to other states. Each state licenses real estate independently.
Real Estate Certificate II (52.1501)
A Texas real estate license does not automatically reciprocate to other states. Each state licenses real estate independently.
Real Estate MCE (52.1501)
A Texas real estate license does not automatically reciprocate to other states. Each state licenses real estate independently.
Education
Bachelor of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education and Teaching (13.121)
Texas does not have reciprocity with any other state. Each state conducts a credentials review to determine whether an applicant’s certification, teaching experience, and exams align with their standards.
Associate of Arts in Teaching Degree - EC-6 (13.1202)
Texas does not have reciprocity with any other state. Each state conducts a credentials review to determine whether an applicant’s certification, teaching experience, and exams align with their standards.
Associate of Arts in Teaching Degree - Leading to Initial Texas Teacher Certification in Foreign Language, EC-12 (13.1205)
Texas does not have reciprocity with any other state. Each state conducts a credentials review to determine whether an applicant’s certification, teaching experience, and exams align with their standards.
Associate of Arts in Teaching Degree - Leading to Initial Texas Teacher Certification in Mathematics, 8-12 (13.1205)
Texas does not have reciprocity with any other state. Each state conducts a credentials review to determine whether an applicant’s certification, teaching experience, and exams align with their standards.
Associate of Arts in Teaching Degree 4-8 (Generalist), EC-12 Special Education (13.1001)
Texas does not have reciprocity with any other state. Each state conducts a credentials review to determine whether an applicant’s certification, teaching experience, and exams align with their standards.
Alternative Teacher Certification Program (post-baccalaureate, CE)
Texas does not have reciprocity with any other state. Each state conducts a credentials review to determine whether an applicant’s certification, teaching experience, and exams align with their standards.
Nursing
Nursing AAS (51.3801)
43 jurisdictions are currently a part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Nurses moving from one compact state to another must apply for licensure in their new primary state of residence within 60 days. The following states are not currently part of this compact and have diffrent state licensing requirements: Alaska, California, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, Oregon
Vocational Nursing Certificate (51.3902)
43 jurisdictions are currently a part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Nurses moving from one compact state to another must apply for licensure in their new primary state of residence within 60 days. The following states are not currently part of this compact and have diffrent state licensing requirements: Alaska, California, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, Oregon
Certified Nurses Aide and Medication Aide (CE) (51.3902)
A Texas license does not automatically reciprocate to other states. However, states may offer reciprocity to CNA's in good standing who meet their own state requirements.
Veterinary Technology
Veterinary Technology AAS (1.8301)
The Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) requires licensing in Texas. There is no interstate reciprocity framework for veterinary assistants. Each state has its own licensing standards.
Dental
Dental Hygiene AAS (51.0602)
The state-issued license is not reciprocal to other states. Each state regulates dental hygiene differently. However, the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) is portable to all states.
Dental Assistant (CE) (51.0601)
No state license is required to be hired and work as a basic dental assistant in Texas. However, to take, position, or expose dental x‑rays, a dental assistant must be registered with the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA). This state-issued license is not reciprocal to other states.
Emergency Medical Services
Emergency Medical Services/Paramedic AAS (51.0904)
An EMS or Paramedic license is state‑specific. If you want to work in another state, you must apply to that state’s EMS authority for licensure by reciprocity or endorsement. Most states use National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) as a baseline, allowing for quicker endorsement in the new state.
Emergency Medical Technician Basic Certificate (51.0904)
An EMS or Paramedic license is state‑specific. If you want to work in another state, you must apply to that state’s EMS authority for licensure by reciprocity or endorsement. Most states use National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) as a baseline, allowing for quicker endorsement in the new state.
Paramedic Certificate (51.0904)
An EMS or Paramedic license is state‑specific. If you want to work in another state, you must apply to that state’s EMS authority for licensure by reciprocity or endorsement. Most states use National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) as a baseline, allowing for quicker endorsement in the new state.
Radiologic Sciences
Invasive Cardiovascular Technology AAS (51.0911)
Students are eligible for licensing as Limited Medical Radiologic Technologists (LMRT) by the Texas Medical Board. (Note: The state license is only required when a job involves performing radiologic procedures regulated by the Texas Medical Board). There is no interstate compact for non-physician TMB licenses. To practice in another state, individuals must apply directly to the other state's licensing board.
Radiologic Technology AAS (51.0911)
Radiologic Technologists are licensed by the Texas Medical Board as Medical Radiologic Technologists (MRT) or Limited Medical Radiologic Technologists (LMRT). Texas licensure is required to practice and is separate from national certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). There is no interstate compact for non-physician TMB licenses. To practice in another state, individuals must apply directly to the other state's licensing board.
Computed Tomography Advanced Technical Certificate (51.0911)
Radiologic Technologists are licensed by the Texas Medical Board as Medical Radiologic Technologists (MRT) or Limited Medical Radiologic Technologists (LMRT). Texas licensure is required to practice and is separate from national certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). There is no interstate compact for non-physician TMB licenses. To practice in another state, individuals must apply directly to the other state's licensing board.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Advanced Technical Certificate (51.0911)
Radiologic Technologists are licensed by the Texas Medical Board as Medical Radiologic Technologists (MRT) or Limited Medical Radiologic Technologists (LMRT). Texas licensure is required to practice and is separate from national certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). There is no interstate compact for non-physician TMB licenses. To practice in another state, individuals must apply directly to the other state's licensing board.
Vascular Interventional Advanced Technical Certificate (51.0911)
Radiologic Technologists are licensed by the Texas Medical Board as Medical Radiologic Technologists (MRT) or Limited Medical Radiologic Technologists (LMRT). Texas licensure is required to practice and is separate from national certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). There is no interstate compact for non-physician TMB licenses. To practice in another state, individuals must apply directly to the other state's licensing board.
Respiratory Care
Respiratory Care AAS (51.0908)
Respiratory Care Practitioners are licensed by the Texas Medical Board. Texas licensure is required to practice and is separate from national certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). There is no interstate compact for non-physician TMB licenses. To practice in another state, individuals must apply directly to the other state's licensing board.
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy Technician Training (CE) (51.0805)
State authorization is required to work in Texas. There is no interstate compact for pharmacy technicians. To practice in another state, individuals must apply directly to the other state's licensing board.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy Assistant AAS (51.0803)
The state of Texas has applied to enter the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact. This allows for an optional, expedited pathway to practice in multiple states. However, as of February 4, 2026, Texas is not yet operational under this compact.
Criminal Justice
Basic Emergency Telecommunicator (CE) (43.0307)
This license authorizes emergency telecommunicator service only in Texas. Other states are not legally required to recognize it, although they may consider waiving or shortening some of their own state requirements. Each State has its own licensing requirements.
Basic Peace Officer (CE) (43.0107)
This license authorizes peace officer service only in Texas. Other states are not legally required to recognize it, although they may consider waiving or shortening some of their own state requirements. Each State has its own licensing requirements.
Digital Forensics and Private Investigation Certificate (43.0104)
A Texas private investigator license- issued by the Department of Public Safety -does not reciprocate automatically to other states.
Fire Protection Technology
Fire Arson/Investigation Certificate (43.0201)
This state-issued license does not automatically reciprocate to other states. However, IFSAC and/or Pro Board seals attached to the certification are nationally recognized. Each State has its own licensing requirements.
Fire Protection Technology AAS (43.0201)
This state-issued license does not automatically reciprocate to other states. However, IFSAC and/or Pro Board seals attached to the certification are nationally recognized. Each State has its own licensing requirements.
Fire Science Certificate (43.0201)
This state-issued license does not automatically reciprocate to other states. However, IFSAC and/or Pro Board seals attached to the certification are nationally recognized. Each State has its own licensing requirements.
Social Work
Social Work Associate - Generalist AAS (44.0701)
A state license is only required to work as a Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) or Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW). Students planning to transfer/ continue their education should be aware.
Substance Abuse Counseling AAS (51.1501)
A state license is only required to work as a Chemical Dependency Counselor. Students planning to transfer/ continue their education should be aware.
Substance Abuse Counseling Certificate (51.1501)
A state license is only required to work as a Chemical Dependency Counselor. Students planning to transfer/ continue their education should be aware.
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology AAS (47.0201)
Effective January 2026, TDLR requires "Verification of Lawful Presence." A person who is NOT a U.S. citizen or national is not eligible for a professional or commercial license issued by a state unless they can provide specific documentation. The EPA 608 Certification is required and crosses state lines; but each State has its own licensing requirements. If a technician moves from Texas to another state, they must meet that state’s licensing or registration requirements separately.
Rising HVACR Technician (47.0201)
Effective January 2026, TDLR requires "Verification of Lawful Presence." A person who is NOT a U.S. citizen or national is not eligible for a professional or commercial license issued by a state unless they can provide specific documentation. The EPA 608 Certification is required and crosses state lines; but each State has its own licensing requirements. If a technician moves from Texas to another state, they must meet that state’s licensing or registration requirements separately.
Technician Level II Certificate in Air Conditioning (47.0201)
Effective January 2026, TDLR requires "Verification of Lawful Presence." A person who is NOT a U.S. citizen or national is not eligible for a professional or commercial license issued by a state unless they can provide specific documentation. The EPA 608 Certification is required and crosses state lines; but each State has its own licensing requirements. If a technician moves from Texas to another state, they must meet that state’s licensing or registration requirements separately.
Technician Level I Certificate in Air Conditioning (47.0201)
Effective January 2026, TDLR requires "Verification of Lawful Presence." A person who is NOT a U.S. citizen or national is not eligible for a professional or commercial license issued by a state unless they can provide specific documentation. The EPA 608 Certification is required and crosses state lines; but each State has its own licensing requirements. If a technician moves from Texas to another state, they must meet that state’s licensing or registration requirements separately.
Construction Technology
Commercial Construction Certificate - HVAC Emphasis (15.1001)
Effective January 2026, TDLR requires "Verification of Lawful Presence." A person who is NOT a U.S. citizen or national is not eligible for a professional or commercial license issued by a state unless they can provide specific documentation. The EPA 608 Certification is required and crosses state lines; but each State has its own licensing requirements. If a technician moves from Texas to another state, they must meet that state’s licensing or registration requirements separately.
Construction Technology AAS - HVAC Emphasis (15.1001)
Effective January 2026, TDLR requires "Verification of Lawful Presence." A person who is NOT a U.S. citizen or national is not eligible for a professional or commercial license issued by a state unless they can provide specific documentation. The EPA 608 Certification is required and crosses state lines; but each State has its own licensing requirements. If a technician moves from Texas to another state, they must meet that state’s licensing or registration requirements separately.
Commercial Construction Certificate - Electrical Emphasis (15.1001)
Effective January 2026, TDLR requires "Verification of Lawful Presence." A person who is NOT a U.S. citizen or national is not eligible for a professional or commercial license issued by a state unless they can provide specific documentation. The following states may accept a Texas Journeyman Electrician license through reciprocity or endorsement (an application and additional steps may be required): Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wyoming
Construction Technology AAS - Electrical Emphasis (15.1001)
Effective January 2026, TDLR requires "Verification of Lawful Presence." A person who is NOT a U.S. citizen or national is not eligible for a professional or commercial license issued by a state unless they can provide specific documentation. The following states may accept a Texas Journeyman Electrician license through reciprocity or endorsement (an application and additional steps may be required): Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wyoming
Commercial Construction Certificate - Plumbing Emphasis (15.1001)
A Texas-issued license does not reciprocate to other states. However, EPA certifications and OSHA training are nationally-recognized.
Construction Technology AAS- Plumbing Emphasis (15.1001)
A Texas-issued license does not reciprocate to other states. However, EPA certifications and OSHA training are nationally-recognized.
Electrical Technology
Commercial Electrical Technology AAS (15.1001)
Effective January 2026, TDLR requires "Verification of Lawful Presence." A person who is NOT a U.S. citizen or national is not eligible for a professional or commercial license issued by a state unless they can provide specific documentation. The following states may accept a Texas Journeyman Electrician license through reciprocity or endorsement (an application and additional steps may be required): Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wyoming
Commercial Electrical Technology Certificate (15.1001)
Effective January 2026, TDLR requires "Verification of Lawful Presence." A person who is NOT a U.S. citizen or national is not eligible for a professional or commercial license issued by a state unless they can provide specific documentation. The following states may accept a Texas Journeyman Electrician license through reciprocity or endorsement (an application and additional steps may be required): Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wyoming
Rising Electrical Technician Certificate (15.1001)
Effective January 2026, TDLR requires "Verification of Lawful Presence." A person who is NOT a U.S. citizen or national is not eligible for a professional or commercial license issued by a state unless they can provide specific documentation. The following states may accept a Texas Journeyman Electrician license through reciprocity or endorsement (an application and additional steps may be required): Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wyoming
Plumbing Technology
Plumbing Technology AAS (15.1001)
A Texas-issued license does not reciprocate to other states. However, EPA certifications and OSHA training are nationally-recognized.
Rising Plumber OSA (15.1001)
A Texas-issued license does not reciprocate to other states. However, EPA certifications and OSHA training are nationally-recognized.
Tradesman Plumber Level I Certificate (15.1001)
A Texas-issued license does not reciprocate to other states. However, EPA certifications and OSHA training are nationally-recognized.
Automotive
Commercial Driver's License (CDL) (CE) (36.0203)
CDLs are licensed by state driver licensing authorities, under federal standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. A Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is valid for driving in all U.S. states for interstate commerce. If you establish residency in another state, you must transfer your CDL to that state within a required timeframe (typically 30–60 days, depending on the state).
Texas State Safety & Emissions Inspector License (47.064)
This license is issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety and is valid only in the State of Texas.
Land Surveying
Land Surveying and Geospatial Technology AAS (15.1001)
The Texas-issued license does not “transfer” automatically to another state. It can be used to demonstrate competency, however the other state may require an application, fees, verification, and/ or an additional exam.
Land Surveying Certificate (15.1001)
The Texas-issued license does not “transfer” automatically to another state. It can be used to demonstrate competency, however the other state may require an application, fees, verification, and/ or an additional exam.
Rising Land Surveyor Certificate (15.1001)
The Texas-issued license does not “transfer” automatically to another state. It can be used to demonstrate competency, however the other state may require an application, fees, verification, and/ or an additional exam.
Irrigation Design
Irrigation Design Certification (CE) (1.0207)
There is no reciprocity for Licensed Landscape Irrigator licenses.