Texas requires proof of immigration status for professional licenses
Mar 24, 2026·Location: Texas, TX

Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation unanimously adopted a new rule requiring people seeking professional licenses, including electricians and dog breeders, to prove legal immigration status. The rule implements a 1996 federal law but allows exceptions for those granted asylum, admitted as refugees, or recognized as human trafficking victims. The change takes effect May 1 and has prompted concerns about economic impact and pushing workers into unlicensed work.
Sources
- Texas will require proof of legal immigration status to get professional licenses
Associated Press·Mar 25, 2026·archived copy
- Texas to require proof of immigration status for licenses
Texas Tribune·Mar 24, 2026·archived copy
- ‘Empty chairs’: New Texas licensing rule hits salons, trades
statesman.com·Mar 25, 2026·archived copy
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