The State of Texas recognizes the contributions of active-duty military members, military spouses, and veterans. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) collaborates with the Office of the Governor, Texas Workforce Commission, Texas Veterans Commission, and Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to help military members, their spouses, and veterans learn about licenses that may help with searching for jobs.

Military service, training, or experience may cover some requirements for a license. Military spouses of current, active-duty military service members may also meet some licensing requirements due to their status.

Additionally, during the 89th regular legislative session, Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill (SB) 1818 into law. SB 1818 amended Texas Occupations Code §55.004 and 55.0041. Now, military service members, military veterans, and military spouses can be issued a provisional license while DSHS reviews their application if they:

• hold a current and similar license in another state; or
• had a Texas license that expired within the last five years.

In most cases, the initial license fee is waived if the proper documents are submitted with the application. This does not apply to business or provisional licenses or certifications. Fees to renew a license or certification are not waived.

Military personnel, their spouses, and veterans interested in obtaining an asbestos or lead license, certification, or registration can call the Environmental and Sanitation Unit (ESU) at 512-834-6600 ext. 2174 for more information.

The ESU staff can also help DSHS licensed military service members who are deployed meet the requirements for renewing a license in Texas.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to military service members, veterans, and their families for their dedicated service to the United States of America and to the State of Texas.