Do You Need a TDPS License to Install Security Cameras in Texas?
Short answer: yes — if you're hiring someone to do it commercially. Here's what Texas law actually requires.
If you're a business owner in Texas getting security cameras installed, there's one thing you need to verify before anyone touches your building: does your installer hold a valid Texas Department of Public Safety (TDPS) license?
This isn't a nice-to-have. It's Texas law. And ignoring it can create real problems — for you and for the company you hired.
Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1702
What the Law Actually Says
Under Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1702 (the Private Security Act), anyone who installs, services, monitors, or sells security cameras, alarm systems, or access control equipment for hire must hold a license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety's Private Security Bureau.
This applies to:
- Installing security cameras (IP or analog) at a business or commercial property
- Installing access control systems (card readers, keypads, electric locks)
- Monitoring security systems
- Servicing or repairing existing security systems
- Selling security equipment as part of an installation service
If a company is doing any of the above for money, they need a TDPS license. Period.
What the TDPS License Requires
Getting and maintaining a TDPS license isn't a rubber-stamp process. The state requires:
Background Checks
Criminal background checks for the company owner and all registered employees who perform installations.
Insurance Requirements
General liability insurance and, in many cases, a surety bond. This protects you if something goes wrong during installation.
Training & Registration
Individual technicians must be registered with the state and complete required training hours.
Ongoing Compliance
Licenses must be renewed. The state can audit licensees and investigate complaints. Non-compliant companies lose their license.
Penalties for Operating Without a License
Operating without a TDPS license is a criminal offense in Texas. Depending on the circumstances, it can be charged as a Class A misdemeanor or a felony. Penalties include:
- Fines up to $10,000 per violation
- Criminal charges against the installer
- Cease-and-desist orders shutting down the business
- Your system may not meet insurance or legal requirements
Important for Business Owners
If your security system was installed by an unlicensed company, your insurance company may deny a claim related to a security incident. Some commercial leases and government contracts specifically require systems to be installed by licensed contractors. An unlicensed installation can void those requirements.
Red Flags: How to Spot an Unlicensed Installer
Unfortunately, there are plenty of companies (and solo operators) installing cameras in Texas without a license. Here's what to watch for:
- They can't provide a TDPS license number when asked
- They say they "don't need one" because they're "just an IT company" or "just doing cameras"
- No insurance certificate available
- They advertise on social media or Craigslist with no business credentials
- They're an electrician or general handyman adding cameras as a side service
- The quote seems way too cheap — because they're skipping the overhead of being properly licensed
You can verify any company's license on the Texas DPS Private Security Bureau website. Search by company name or license number. It takes 30 seconds and can save you a lot of headaches.
West Texas Wi-Fi's TDPS License
West Texas Wi-Fi holds TDPS License #B31108601. We're fully licensed and insured for security camera installation, access control, and alarm systems in the state of Texas.
Every technician on our team is registered with the state. We carry the insurance your landlord, insurance company, or general contractor requires. And we're happy to provide our license number and insurance certificate upfront — you shouldn't have to ask twice.
TDPS License #B31108601
Licensed for security cameras, access control, and alarm systems in Texas
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