1. (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.
2. (b) This section applies to a military service member, a military veteran, and a military spouse, as defined under §60.501.
3. (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.

4. (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. (1) education;
   2. (2) continuing education;
   3. (3) examinations (written and/or practical);
   4. (4) letters of good standing;
   5. (5) letters of recommendation;
   6. (6) work experience; or
   7. (7) other methods approved or accepted by the executive director.

5. (e) To apply for a license under this section, an applicant must submit:

   1. (1) a license application and any supporting documents required by the application;

   2. (2) a supplemental application including:

      1. (A) if the applicant is a service member, a copy of the applicant's military orders or other documents verifying the applicant's active duty status;
      2. (B) if the applicant is a veteran, documents verifying the applicant's veteran status; or
      3. (C) if the applicant is a military spouse, a copy of the applicant's marriage license or certificate and a copy of the service member's military orders or other documents verifying the service member's active duty status; and
   3. (3) documents specified under subsection (d) that demonstrate the applicant's competency to be evaluated by the department.
6. (f) The applicant under this section must pass a criminal history background check. The department may deny an application if the applicant has a disqualifying criminal history.
7. (g) An application under this section shall be expedited in accordance with Texas Occupations Code §55.005.

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; amended to be effective December 1, 2025, 50 TexReg 7549.