The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) honors the brave men and women who serve and their spouses by offering special considerations to military spouses.
The TDLR regulates over 40 programs and professions, such as podiatrists, property tax professionals, athletic trainers, cosmetologists, and massage therapists. Each program has licensing requirements specific for its applicants.
TDLR Benefits for Military Spouses
The benefits conferred to spouses of a military member serving on active duty include:
- Expedited license application processing.
- Additional methods by which initial licensure may be obtained.
- The initial license application fee and examination requirements may be waived.
Military spouses may be able to demonstrate competency for licensure by alternative methods than what is mandated by Texas law or TDLR Rules. Demonstrating competency can be accomplished through showing adequate education or continuing education, work experience, successful examinations, letters of good standing, letters of recommendation, or any relevant information required by TDLR’s executive director.
The TDLR evaluates alternative method licensure applications on a case-by-case basis. Depending on the requirements of the specific TDLR program, the applicant may have to pass an examination to obtain the license for which they apply.
License Holders from Another Jurisdiction
Military spouses who hold a current license in another jurisdiction with substantially equivalent licensing requirements as Texas, may be eligible to be licensed in Texas. In such cases, the initial license application fee and any examination requirement are waived. The following documents are required:
- A completed Military Supplemental Application Form.
- Completed application and any supporting documents.
- Proof that you are currently licensed in another jurisdiction.
- Proof of your spouse’s active duty military status.
- Proof of marital status.
The department will evaluate applications on a case-by-case basis to determine if the license requirements of the other jurisdiction are substantially equivalent to those in Texas.
Previously Held Texas License
If you are a spouse of an active duty military service member and held a Texas license that expired within the last five years, you may apply to have your license reinstated. In such cases, the examination requirement is waived. The following documents are required:
- A completed Military Supplemental Application Form.
- Completed application with the required fee for the license for which you are applying, any supporting documents.
- Proof of your spouse’s active duty military status.
- Proof of marital status.
Hire an Experienced License Defense Attorney
If you need assistance taking advantage of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation’s military spouse benefits, BERTOLINO LLP can help. If you are facing licensure issues with the TDLR or a complaint filed against you, our law firm can help. We are experienced TDLR license defense attorneys and we know how to navigate the Agency’s complaint process. We are prepared to represent you at any legal hearing or proceeding regarding your professional license.
Our Firm believes that immediately consulting an experienced TDLR license defense attorney to review allegations of misconduct helps ensure the most favorable outcome in your case. Our results speak for themselves.
BERTOLINO LLP represents licensed professionals across the entire State of Texas. If you are facing disciplinary action from a professional licensing board or state agency, contact us today or call (512) 476-5757 and schedule a case evaluation.
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