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How to Verify a Professional's License in Dallas?

Professionals in Dallas require licenses to legally operate, and the process for verifying these licenses varies depending on the type of occupation. For example, while the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) regulates and licenses professionals and services in 39 industries, professionals operating in the construction industry also require additional municipal registration with the Dallas Building Inspection Department. Similarly, the Dallas Special Collections Department also issues municipal licenses to individuals and businesses that operate certain ventures including retail alcohol sale outlets, swimming pools, amusement centers, and adult businesses. Interested persons can verify city-issued licenses by contacting the Special Collections Department either by phone through (214) 670-3438, or by fax at (214) 670-0774. The city's Consumer Protection Unit also issues licenses to motor repair professionals, wood vendors, and tire shops. You can verify these licenses by calling (214) 948-4351. Likewise, most state-issued licenses can be verified using the TDLR's Active License Data Search portal, while Dallas contractors' registration can be verified by contacting the Building Inspection Department via phone at (214) 948-4480. Note that the Building Inspection Department also issues permits to Dallas residents that intend to perform building-related construction, and you are required to procure all relevant permits before undertaking any construction project within the city. It is recommended to always contact the department for details on construction permits relating to your project.

Do Dallas Neighborhood Councils
Issue Permits?

Dallas is made up of 14 Council Districts where members of the City Council are elected from. The City Council does not have the power to issue construction permits in the city. However, its responsibilities and powers encompass several other functions including setting policy, approving city ordinances, determining tax rates, approving annual budget and plans for capital improvements, and establishing city departments.

The Council recently embarked on the conversion of Tyler and Polk Streets to twoway streets to ease traffic within the city. This project is set for completion in November 2021. Similarly, the Council also approved the renovation of Fort Worth Avenue including pedestrian improvements, the addition of bike lanes, and partial reconstruction of the street. Construction is expected to end in September 2021. You can look up your council district by using the online Dallas Council District Map.

How Do You File an Unfair Business
Complaint in Dallas?

You can file unfair business complaints against Dallas professionals that engage in wood vending, electronic repair, motor vehicle repair and transport, scrap tire, and home repair with the Dallas Consumer Protection Unit. Interested parties can do this by calling (214) 948-435. Likewise, you can file consumer complaints against other professionals with the Office of the Texas Attorney General either online, by calling (800) 621-0508, or by mailing a completed Consumer Complaint Form (also available in Spanish) to

• Office of the Attorney General
• Consumer Protection Division
• P.O. Box 12548
• Austin, TX 78711-2548

Note that complaints that allege criminal activities should also be filed with the Dallas Police Department. Furthermore, the goal of an agency's receipt of consumer complaints is usually to institute punitive action against the business and not to compensate the complainant. Therefore, you should consider other legal options, such as suing the professional or business for compensation. With the help of a competent lawyer, you can institute such an action before the Dallas County Justice Court, which has jurisdiction over monetary claims of $10,000 or less.