How to Get a Roofing License in Texas: Requirements, Cost, and Steps

Do you need a roofing license in Texas?

No. Texas does not require a state roofing license. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) does not regulate roofing contractors, and there is no mandatory state exam or registration to operate a roofing business.

However, that doesn’t mean you can skip all licensing. Some Texas cities enforce their own requirements:

• Houston requires roofing contractors to register and provide proof of insurance.
• San Antonio requires permits for roofing work and may require contractor registration.
• Dallas requires building permits for roofing projects.

Always check your local city and county regulations before starting work. You can find a broader list of Texas licenses and permits on the Governor’s Office website.

Even though the state doesn’t mandate it, the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) offers a voluntary licensing program that many contractors pursue to build credibility and win more work.

Benefits of getting a roofing license in Texas

Since a roofing license in Texas is voluntary, you might wonder if it’s worth the effort. For most contractors who are serious about growth, the answer is yes.

A voluntary RCAT license gives you a credibility advantage in a state where most contractors operate without credentials:

• Credibility with clients. Homeowners and property managers are more likely to hire a licensed roofer over an unlicensed one. Homeowners consistently look for proof of licensing when hiring a roofer, according to industry surveys from the National Roofing Contractors Association.
• Competitive advantage. In a state where licensing is optional, having credentials sets you apart. You can display your RCAT license number on quotes, trucks, and marketing materials.
• Access to higher-paying contracts. Many commercial clients and insurance companies require proof of licensing or certification before awarding contracts.
• Insurance eligibility. Some insurers offer better rates or broader coverage to licensed contractors.
• Consumer trust. Licensed contractors signal professionalism and accountability, which translates directly into more referrals and repeat business.

Types of roofing licenses in Texas

RCAT offers three tiers of roofing contractor licenses. Each covers different scopes of work:

License type	What it covers
Residential Roofing License (RRL)	Residential roofing work (steep slope and low slope)
Commercial Roofing License (CRL)	Commercial roofing work
Commercial and Residential Roofing License (CRRL)	Both residential and commercial roofing work

The license you choose depends on the type of roofing work you do or plan to do. If you handle both residential and commercial projects, the CRRL is the most comprehensive option.

All three licenses require you to pass the RCAT licensing exam and meet their insurance, experience, and business standing requirements.

Texas roofing license requirements through RCAT

To qualify for any RCAT roofing license, you need to meet these requirements:

• Experience: At least two years as a principal in a roofing contracting firm.
• General liability insurance: $300,000 combined single limit for residential applicants, or $500,000 combined single limit for commercial applicants. Alternatively, you can provide evidence of a $100,000 surety bond, property bond, or irrevocable letter of credit.
• Workers’ compensation insurance: Required if you have employees. Texas allows employers to opt out of workers’ comp, but you must file a DWC Form-005 with the Texas Department of Insurance if you choose not to carry it.
• Better Business Bureau standing: You must be in good standing with your local BBB.
• Pass the licensing exam: Score 70% or higher on both the business/safety and trade exams.

RCAT also requires you to become an association member as part of the licensing process.

Steps to get your RCAT roofing license

Getting your RCAT roofing contractor license in Texas involves five main steps:

1. Download the application

Visit the RCAT licensing page and download the application form for the license type you want (RRL, CRL, or CRRL).

2. Complete and notarize the application

Fill out the application with your business information, insurance details, and experience history. You’ll need to have the application notarized before submitting it.

3. Pay your licensing fee

Include your application fee with the completed paperwork. Fees range from $550 to $750, depending on license type (see the cost section below).

4. Mail everything to RCAT

Send your notarized application and payment to:

Roofing Contractors Association of Texas
6080 S Hulen St., Ste 360 PMB 396
Fort Worth, TX 76132

5. Take the licensing exam

Once RCAT approves your application, you’ll get access to their online exam portal to schedule and complete your exams. RCAT also offers in-person Licensing Bootcamp and Exam events for contractors who prefer a structured, hands-on test prep experience.

RCAT recommends studying the NRCA Roofing and Waterproofing Manual to prepare for the exam. You can purchase the manual directly from NRCA.

Texas roofing license exam

The RCAT licensing exam has two parts:

1. Business and safety exam (taken first)
2. Trade exam(s) based on your license type (steep slope, low slope, or both)

Here’s what to expect:

• Format: Open book, multiple choice
• Questions: 50 per exam
• Time limit: 1.5 hours per exam
• Passing score: 70% or higher
• Portal access: 90 days from the date your application is approved
• Attempts: Up to three attempts per 90-day period, with a maximum of three periods per year
• Completion deadline: You have one year from application approval to finish all exams

The business and safety exam covers topics like contract law, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements, and insurance. The trade exams test your knowledge of materials, installation methods, and repair techniques specific to the roofing systems your license covers.

How long does it take to get a roofing license in Texas

Plan for a timeline that looks something like this:

• Experience prerequisite: Two or more years as a principal in a roofing firm (this is the biggest time commitment if you’re just starting out)
• Application processing: Several weeks after RCAT receives your completed, notarized application and payment
• Exam completion: Up to 90 days of portal access to study and pass both exams

From the time you submit your application to the time you have your license in hand, expect roughly two to four months if you pass your exams on the first attempt. The full timeline from deciding to pursue a license to holding one depends largely on whether you already have the required two years of experience.

Roofing license reciprocity in Texas

Because Texas doesn’t issue a state roofing license, there’s no formal reciprocity agreement with other states. This works both ways:

• Coming to Texas: If you hold a roofing license in another state, you’re free to work in Texas, but your out-of-state license won’t automatically transfer to an RCAT credential. You’d still need to apply and pass the RCAT exam separately.
• Leaving Texas: Your RCAT license is a voluntary, industry-issued credential. Other states that require a state-issued roofing license won’t recognize it as a substitute for their own licensing requirements.

Regardless of your license status, always check municipal permit requirements in the Texas city where you plan to work.

How much does a Texas roofing license cost?

Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved in getting and maintaining an RCAT roofing license. Verify current pricing directly with RCAT before applying, as fees can change.

Expense	Cost
Residential Roofing License (RRL) application	$550
RRL with RCAT membership bundle	$850
Commercial Roofing License (CRL) application	$550
CRL with RCAT membership bundle	$850
Commercial and Residential Roofing License (CRRL) application	$750
CRRL with RCAT membership bundle	$1,050
NRCA Roofing Manual (member price)	$495
NRCA Roofing Manual (non-member price)	$895
Annual license renewal	$250

Total estimated cost to get licensed: $1,045 to $1,945, depending on your license type, membership status, and which study materials you purchase.

These figures don’t include your general liability insurance, workers’ comp, or BBB dues, which are separate ongoing business expenses.

Texas roofing license renewal

You need to renew your RCAT license every year. Here’s what that involves:

• Continuing education: Complete eight continuing education units (CEUs) each renewal cycle.
• No re-exam: As long as you renew on time, you won’t need to retake the licensing exam.
• Renewal fee: $250 per year.
• Late renewal penalty: $200 if you miss the deadline.
• Grace period: 30 days after your renewal date to complete the process.

Set a reminder well before your renewal date. The penalty adds up, and if you miss the grace period entirely, the consequences are serious.

What happens if your Texas roofing license expires?

If you don’t renew within the 30-day grace period, RCAT terminates your license. Once terminated, RCAT will not reinstate your license.

That means you’d have to start the entire process from scratch: submit a new application, pay full application fees again, and retake all exams.

The $250 annual renewal fee is a small price compared to the cost and time of re-licensing. Set a renewal reminder well before the deadline to keep your credentials active.

Roofing training programs and schools in Texas

Whether you’re new to roofing or looking to sharpen your skills, several programs can help you build expertise and prepare for RCAT exams:

• GAF Roofing Academy: A free training program with Texas locations in Georgetown and Dallas. Covers hands-on installation techniques and safety practices.
• NRCA TRAC Program: The National Roofing Contractors Association’s training program for roofing workers, covering installation, maintenance, and safety across multiple roofing systems.
• ABC Apprenticeships: Associated Builders and Contractors offers structured apprenticeship programs that combine classroom learning with on-the-job training.
• RCAT Licensing Bootcamp: RCAT periodically holds in-person bootcamp and exam events that combine test preparation with the opportunity to sit for your licensing exam on-site. Check the RCAT website for upcoming dates.

These programs are especially valuable if you don’t yet have the two years of experience required for RCAT licensing. They can help you build skills faster and make stronger connections in the industry.

Who issues roofing licenses in Texas?

The Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) is the organization that issues voluntary roofing licenses in the state. RCAT is an industry trade association, not a government agency.

Contact information:

Roofing Contractors Association of Texas
6080 S Hulen St., Ste 360 PMB 396
Fort Worth, TX 76132
Website: rcat.net

It’s a common misconception that the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) issues roofing licenses. While TDLR regulates many trades in Texas, roofing is not one of them. Contacting TDLR about a roofing license will not provide the information you’re looking for.

How to start a roofing business in Texas

Getting licensed is just one piece of building a successful roofing business. Here’s what else you’ll need to handle:

1. Register your business

The Texas Governor’s Office has a step-by-step guide to starting a business that covers:

• Creating a business plan
• Choosing a business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.)
• Registering with the Texas Secretary of State
• Getting your federal tax ID (EIN)
• Understanding your state and local tax obligations
• Securing required permits and employer registrations

2. Set up your operations

Once the paperwork is in order, you need the day-to-day systems that keep jobs running smoothly:

• Pricing your work. Know your material costs, labor rates, and overhead so you can create accurate quotes that protect your margins.
• Equipment and vehicles. Budget for trucks, ladders, safety gear, and roofing tools.
• Marketing. Build a website, claim your Google Business Profile, and ask satisfied clients for reviews.
• Business management software. Keeping track of jobs, sending quotes, scheduling crews, invoicing clients, and collecting payments gets complicated fast.

With Jobber, you can build and send a professional quote directly from the job site using the mobile app. Schedule your next crew from the same screen, then activate online payments so clients can pay as soon as you finish the job. Jobber customers save 12+ hours a week on admin and get paid 4x faster.

3. Hire and grow your team

As you take on more jobs, you’ll need to bring on crew members. Make sure you understand Texas employer requirements for workers’ comp, payroll taxes, and safety training.

As you take on more jobs, you’ll need to bring on crew members. Before bringing on workers, make sure you understand Texas employer requirements for workers’ comp, payroll taxes, and safety training.

Texas is the only state where most private employers can choose whether to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Employers that choose not to provide coverage, known as non-subscribers, must comply with specific employee notification and reporting requirements. Employers that carry workers’ compensation coverage generally receive protection from most workplace injury lawsuits, while non-subscribers may face greater legal liability if an employee is injured on the job. 

You’ll also need to set up payroll correctly. Texas does not have a state income tax, but employers are still responsible for federal payroll taxes and Texas unemployment taxes. Most employers must register with the Texas Workforce Commission, report employee wages, and pay unemployment insurance taxes based on state requirements.

Originally published October 2023. Last updated June 9th, 2026