Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: Chamwow, Location: Alabama
Asked on: Monday, December 9, 2024 at 12:51 pm EST
Answered on: Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 6:04 am EST
Question: This was also posted in the Electricians Subreddit.If this is the wrong forum please let me know and I will move it to the appropriate one.I am having a conundrum and was hoping someone has some advice.First the back story.In 2014 I started looking into taking my Journeyman Electrician test. While looking at the requirements I noticed Alabama required 8000 hours in supervisory experience to take the Electrical Contractors test, but did not specifically require a Journeyman license first. At that time I had more than enough hours supervising others so I sent in the application, was cleared for the test, took it, and passed. I became an Alabama licensed Electrical Contractor (Alabama does not have a designation as a Master Electrician) in June 2014.Now the problem.My current employer asked me to pursue getting licensed in Texas, so I sent in the application. The response I am getting in Texas is since I never held a Journeyman license I do not meet the requirements to sit for the test, I pointed out I surpass the requirements but was told my only option is to get a Texas Journeyman license for two years first.Looking into the Texas laws it does state that you must have a Journeyman license for two years before being eligible to take the test. However when I dug into the definitions listed in the codes it says licensee or license holder is anyone who has a license issued by the department, and department is defined as the Texas Department of licensing and regulation.I know for a fact Texas has let other Alabama electricians use their Alabama Journeyman card to qualify to sit for the exam, even though the letter of the law does not allow it. The department however uses the spirit of the law to let these others test. I'll admit, I do not qualify under the letter of the law, but since they let others test who qualify under the spirit of the law I think I should be eligible to test.Has anyone had to deal with anything similar when trying to get licensed in Texas when coming from out of state? If so, do you have any advice or know of someone in the department I can talk to regarding this decision.
This is a tough spot, and it sounds like you've done your homework. Here's a breakdown of what you're facing and possible paths forward, keeping in mind I am an AI and not a legal professional
Understanding the Problem
The Letter vs. The Spirit
You're caught in a classic regulatory conundrum. The letter of the law in Texas seems to require a Texas Journeyman license for two years. The spirit of the law likely aims to ensure qualified individuals can perform electrical work safely. You argue that your Alabama Contractor's license, with its experience requirements, demonstrates equivalent (or even superior) qualification.
Inconsistency
The fact that Texas has seemingly made exceptions for Alabama Journeyman electricians is frustratingly inconsistent and the crux of your argument.
Bureaucracy
Licensing boards often operate with strict rules and processes. Deviations can be difficult to achieve without the right approach.
Possible Courses of Action
Escalate Within TDLR (Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation)
Formal Appeal/Reconsideration
Request a formal reconsideration of your application. Frame your argument clearly and concisely. Point out the following: The equivalency (or superiority) of your Alabama Contractor's license requirements. The precedent set by TDLR in accepting Alabama Journeyman licenses. The definition of "licensee" includes anyone with a license issued by the Department which you have. Acknowledge you understand you need a Texas license, which is why you are trying to get one.
Contact a Supervisor/Manager
Politely ask to speak with a supervisor or manager within the TDLR's electrical licensing department. Explain your situation and why you believe you should be eligible. A conversation can sometimes clarify misunderstandings or open avenues not immediately apparent in written rules.
Document Everything
Keep meticulous records of all communication, including dates, names, and the content of conversations. This documentation will be crucial if you need to escalate further.2.
Seek Legal Guidance (Recommended)
Texas Administrative Law Attorney
Consult with an attorney specializing in Texas administrative law and occupational licensing. They can review your situation, advise you on your legal rights, and potentially represent you in discussions with TDLR. They can also assess the strength of your argument based on legal precedent and the specific wording of the Texas regulations.
Texas Licensing Board Attorney
Some attorneys specialize in dealing with licensing boards. They understand the inner workings and have experience navigating these types of situations.3.
Contact Your Alabama Licensing Board
Reciprocity Agreements
While you may not qualify for reciprocity, Alabama's licensing board may be able to provide a letter of good standing and a detailed explanation of the requirements for their Contractor's license, highlighting the experience and knowledge required. This could be helpful to TDLR.4.
Explore the Journeyman Route (As a Last Resort)
If all else fails, consider obtaining a Texas Journeyman license for the required two years. This is a significant time investment, but it would remove the obstacle and allow you to pursue your Contractor's license later. Credit for Experience
Investigate if any of your supervisory experience in Alabama can be credited towards the Journeyman license requirements in Texas.5.
Legislative Action (Long Shot)
In extreme cases, if you believe the law is fundamentally unfair and hinders qualified professionals, you could explore advocating for a change in the Texas law. This would likely involve contacting your state representatives and working with industry organizations. This is a long and difficult process.
Important Considerations
Professionalism
Maintain a professional and respectful attitude in all your interactions with TDLR. Even if you disagree with their interpretation, being courteous will increase your chances of a positive outcome.
Persistence
Bureaucracies can be slow and frustrating. Don't give up easily. Be persistent in your efforts to find a solution.
Time Sensitivity
Consider the urgency of obtaining the Texas license. If you need it quickly, the Journeyman route might be the fastest option, even if it's not ideal.
Key Arguments to Emphasize to TDLR
Equivalency of Experience
Stress that the Alabama Contractor's license requires significant supervisory experience that is equivalent to (or exceeds) the requirements for a Texas Journeyman and Contractor.
Precedent
Highlight the fact that TDLR has previously accepted Alabama Journeyman licenses as meeting the qualifications for testing.
Public Safety
Argue that your qualifications ensure you can perform electrical work safely and competently, thus meeting the underlying goal of the licensing regulations.*
Economic Impact: You will be contracting and growing your business in Texas, creating jobs and increasing the tax base.By systematically exploring these options, documenting your efforts, and potentially seeking legal guidance, you can increase your chances of successfully obtaining a Texas Electrical Contractor's license. Good luck! Flag for review