An online CE course is continuing education delivered over the internet instead of in a classroom — and for all three OnlineTexasCE trades, it is a fully equal path to renewal. TDLR does not distinguish between online and classroom delivery for CE credit. This is official policy, not a loophole or a temporary accommodation:
- 100% online completion is allowed for cosmetology/barber, electrician, and ACR contractor CE
- Self-paced courses are accepted — start, stop, and resume on your schedule, from any device
- No in-person proctoring is mandated by TDLR for these courses
- No final exam — TDLR does not mandate a final exam or passing score for CE credit. The requirement is completing the approved hours, including any short in-lesson knowledge or attendance checks the approved course design includes
The only condition is the one that applies to all CE: the course must come from a TDLR-approved provider, and the provider must be approved to deliver internet courses — TDLR's provider list is filterable by "Offers Internet Courses."
OnlineTexasCE courses are online and self-paced, with no final exam, $22.95 for any trade, and 180 days to complete.
What it means for your renewal
Online CE means your renewal never requires a day off or a drive: the hours fit around jobs and clients, and completion is reported to TDLR within 24 hours. The credit on your record is identical to classroom credit.