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Animal Control Officer License in Texas

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Animal Control Officer license in TX. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$150

Processing Time

3-5 Weeks

Exam Required

NACA Certification Exam

Difficulty Level

Low

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Animal Control Officer license in Texas.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Animal Control Officer training program in Texas.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your TX application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NACA Certification Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Texas licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 3-5 weeks in TX. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Animal Control Officer in Texas, the licensing process begins with education. TX mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the NACA Certification Exam. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate Texas regulatory board.

Requirements

Texas has specific requirements for Animal Control Officer licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to enforce animal control laws and handle stray animals. A clean background check is mandatory in TX, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The NACA Certification Exam must be passed with a minimum score set by the Texas board.

Fees & Costs

Obtaining your Animal Control Officer license in Texas requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in TX is $150, which includes application processing and credential verification. Exam registration fees are separate and vary by testing center. Budget for approximately $300 total when accounting for all associated costs in Texas.

License Fee Calculator — Animal Control Officer in Texas

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

Maintaining your Animal Control Officer license in Texas requires timely renewal every 2 years. TX sets the renewal fee at $75. You must complete all required continuing education hours and submit proof to the Texas board. Failure to renew on time may result in license suspension and reinstatement fees in TX.

License Expiry Calculator — Animal Control Officer in TX

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Texas requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Animal Control Officer in Texas offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. TX has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Texas also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Animal Control Officer professionals.

Document Checklist — Animal Control Officer

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Texas Animal Control Officer License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) FullAK accepts TX Animal Control Officer license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize TX Animal Control Officer license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for TX license holders.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for TX license holders.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for TX license holders.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for TX license holders.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for TX license holders.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for TX license holders.

Where to File Locally in Texas

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Austin

920 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701

(512) 463-6599

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Houston

901 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002

(713) 837-7000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Dallas

1500 Marilla St, Dallas, TX 75201

(214) 670-3011

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

San Antonio

100 Military Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

(210) 207-7080

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fort Worth

200 Texas St, Fort Worth, TX 76102

(817) 392-2255

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official Texas Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Texas state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.