SECTION 60.516. Expedited Alternative Licensing Requirements--Demonstration of Competency by Alternative Methods

(a) This section implements Texas Occupations Code §§55.004, 55.005, and 55.006, as they relate to an applicant that demonstrates competency by alternative methods.

(b) This section applies to a military service member, a military veteran, and a military spouse, as defined under §60.501.

(c) The department may allow an applicant under this section to demonstrate competency by alternative methods to meet the requirements for obtaining a specific license issued by the department. For purposes of this section, the standard method of demonstrating competency is the specific examination, education, and/or experience required to obtain a specific license.

(d) In lieu of the standard method(s) of demonstrating competency for a specific license and based on the applicant's circumstances, the alternative methods for demonstrating competency may include any combination of the following as determined by the department:

(1) education;

(2) continuing education;

(3) examinations (written and/or practical);

(4) letters of good standing;

(5) letters of recommendation;

(6) work experience; or

(7) other methods approved or accepted by the executive director.

(e) The following documentation must be submitted to apply for a license under this section:

(1) completed license application and any supporting documents associated with the specific department license;

(2) completed Military Service Member, Military Veteran, or Military Spouse Supplemental Application and supporting documents including;

(A) copy of the military orders showing proof of active duty status (for service member and spouse);

(B) copy of the military orders or documents showing proof of veteran status (for veteran); and

(C) copy of document showing proof of status as a spouse; and

(3) documents specified under subsection (d) that demonstrate the applicant's competency and that will be evaluated by the department.

(f) An applicant under this section must pay the license application fees associated with obtaining that specific license.

(g) The applicant under this section must pass a criminal history background check.

(h) An application under this section shall be expedited in accordance with Texas Occupations Code §55.005.

(i) A service member, veteran, or spouse, who obtains a license under this section, must comply with all license renewal requirements including fees for the specific license obtained.

Source Note: The provisions of this §60.516 adopted to be effective January 1, 2016, 40 TexReg 9119; amended to be effective January 1, 2024, 48 TexReg 8354