Texas Enacted Solar Sales Registration Rules

Residential solar retailers must now register with the state and meet insurance requirements to protect Texas consumers.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Insurance

Texas Enacted Solar Sales Registration Rules

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Should states require residential solar retailers and salespeople to register with a government agency?

Texas began requiring residential solar retailers and their salespeople to register with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) on September 1, 2026. The new program is designed to enhance consumer protection by regulating sales practices and ensuring companies maintain liability coverage.

Why it matters

This regulatory shift helps Texas households by ensuring solar providers meet specific background and insurance standards while mandating a clear contract cancellation window. These measures aim to curb deceptive sales tactics and improve accountability for those selling home solar installations.

Residential solar retailers now pay an annual $350 registration fee, while individual salespeople pay $56 per year. Contracts must also now include a five-business-day cancellation period for all consumers.

The players

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

The state agency responsible for overseeing professional licensing and enforcing compliance with consumer protection standards.

The details

Under the new mandate, retail companies must submit proof of insurance and owner identification to the TDLR. Salespeople are subject to criminal history background checks, and companies are legally required to supervise their staff and provide training to prevent false claims regarding utility or government affiliations. Licensed electrical contractors and their employees are exempt from these specific registration rules.

August 10, 2026: The TDLR opened the portal for online registration applications.
September 1, 2026: State registration requirements took effect for solar retailers and salespeople.
November 1, 2026: Enforcement begins for mandated disclosure forms and educational materials.

Money Landscape

This mandate follows a broader effort to formalize standards for the Texas residential solar industry. It brings the state closer to oversight models used in other professional trades that handle high-value home installations.

Texas homeowners should verify that their solar salesperson is registered with the state and ensure their contract includes the mandatory five-day cancellation period. You may consult with a financial or tax professional to understand how these consumer protections apply to your specific solar purchase agreement.

The takeaway

The new registration mandate provides a formal baseline of oversight for solar providers operating in Texas. When evaluating solar proposals, ensure your contract clearly lists the five-business-day cancellation period and confirm the provider's registration status with the state.