Texas Drywall Contractor License & Insurance Guide

Texas does not require a statewide drywall contractor license. That does not mean drywall is unregulated — the federal RRP rule requires certification for work that disturbs painted surfaces in pre-1978 homes, city business registrations gate permitting, and insurance gates every commercial contract. A drywall contractor who skips any layer risks fines and uninsurable claims.

No State License — but City Registration

Most Texas municipalities require drywall contractors to register with the city and show proof of GL insurance before pulling a permit or operating. Cities including Arlington, Fort Worth, Dallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio maintain contractor registration lists with their own GL minimums (commonly $300K–$1M). Some require a surety bond in lieu of a license. Check each city's contractor registration page before you bid.

Lead Renovation (RRP) Certification

Federal EPA RRP rules require any contractor disturbing painted surfaces in pre-1978 housing to be RRP-certified. Drywall contractors repairing or replacing walls and ceilings in pre-1978 homes must hold RRP firm certification and a Certified Renovator on staff. Unlicensed lead-disturbing work is a federal violation and an uninsurable claim. If you work pre-1978 homes, maintain RRP certification.

Insurance That Gates Drywall Work

• General Liability written on the drywall class codes you actually perform
• Completed operations coverage for finish claims
• Workers' comp or a policy-with-no-employees for commercial contracts
• Commercial auto for loaded drywall trucks
• Inland marine for lifts, stilts, and automatic taping tools
• Ceiling-height coverage if you work high ceilings or commercial work

Permit and Inspection Compliance

Most Texas cities do not require a permit for drywall repair, but commercial drywall and new-construction hanging often require a building or finish permit. Permit applications require contractor registration and proof of insurance. Permitted work is inspected, which protects the completed-operations claim. Skipping a required permit exposes you to fines and can weaken a defect defense.

Records to Keep

• EPA RRP firm certification and Certified Renovator credentials if you work pre-1978 homes
• GL declarations showing drywall class codes and completed operations
• Workers' comp certificate and owner-exclusion election
• City business registrations and permits
• Sub COIs with additional-insured endorsements