Texas applies the 2023 NEC through August 31, 2026. On July 28, 2026 the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation adopted the 2026 National Electrical Code, effective September 1, 2026 (16 TAC §73.100), keeping Texas's amendment to 210.8(F) — no GFCI required for outlets supplying listed outdoor dwelling-unit HVAC equipment. It continues the state's pattern of taking up each new NEC edition on the NFPA's 3-year cycle under Texas Occupations Code §1305.101, with the 2026 edition superseding the 2023 NEC that has governed non-exempt electrical work in Texas since September 1, 2023.
Preparation has been underway at TDLR since late 2025: the agency's Examination Review Committee began re-referencing electrician exam items to the 2026 NEC code book in November 2025, with updated licensing exams going live September 1, 2026. CE providers will update their course content to the new edition as well.
For license holders, this is the practical rhythm of every code cycle: you never retake an exam when the code changes — your annual CE is where you learn the new edition. Our approved 4-hour course dedicates roughly 3 hours to current NEC content, so the CE cycle that follows an adoption walks you through what changed.
What it means for your renewal
With the 2026 edition effective September 1, 2026, expect CE for renewals after that date to move to the new code. Completing your 4 hours each year — no final exam, reported to TDLR within 24 hours — is how you stay current without ever facing the licensing exam again.
Authority: Texas Occupations Code §1305.101