Texas will require anyone seeking a professional license—including electricians, dog breeders, and cosmetologists—to prove legal status in the country after the state’s Commission of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) unanimously approved a new rule Tuesday.
The change, set to take effect May 1, affects thousands of workers and aligns with federal law, including the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996.
TDLR officials emphasized that some noncitizens may still qualify for licenses if they meet federal exceptions, such as being granted asylum, admitted as a refugee, or recognized as a victim of human trafficking. The agency plans to post a list of acceptable documentation on its website.
The proposal sparked widespread opposition from workers, educators, and business owners, who warned it could shrink the state’s skilled workforce, push people into unlicensed work, and undermine industry oversight. Rocio Gomez, an eyelash extension instructor in Austin, said some of her students without legal status had been emotionally distressed by the uncertainty. Critics also pointed out that many professions require extensive training and safety education, which could be disrupted if licensing is restricted. Democratic state Sen. Sarah Eckhardt estimated the change could reduce the skilled workforce by 8–10%.
Supporters, including Gov. Greg Abbott’s office, praised the rule as a way to uphold federal law, maintain the integrity of state licensing, and ensure jobs go to legally authorized workers. TDLR joins other Texas agencies, including the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Motor Vehicles, in tightening regulations on noncitizens.
Commission Chair Rick Figueroa acknowledged the uncharted nature of the rule and called for regular updates as it is implemented, noting that the agency is “building a plane and flying it a little bit.”