Will a Criminal Charge Affect Your Professional License in Texas?

Can a Criminal Charge Cost You Your License?

In many cases, yes. In Texas, professionals such as doctors, nurses, teachers, real estate agents, accountants, lawyers, contractors, and cosmetologists are licensed by state agencies. These agencies are allowed—and often required—to take disciplinary action if a licensee is charged with certain types of crimes. You don't have to be convicted. In some cases, an arrest alone can trigger an investigation and a temporary suspension.

Which Crimes Create the Most Risk?
Licensing boards typically take action for:

• Drug Offenses – Possession, delivery, or DWI involving substances.

• Assault or Family Violence – Especially if there's a protective order or bodily injury.

• Theft or Fraud – Including check fraud, embezzlement, or Medicaid/insurance fraud.

• Sexual Offenses – Even low-level charges can be disqualifying.

• DWI / DUI – A common offense with potentially severe consequences for licensed drivers, healthcare workers, and educators.

• Moral Turpitude Offenses – Crimes that suggest dishonesty or unethical behavior.

Each board has its own rules, but all are concerned with protecting the public and maintaining trust in the profession.

What Professions Are Most Affected?
Some licensing boards are particularly aggressive:

• Nurses and Healthcare Workers (Texas BON)
  The Texas Board of Nursing requires licensees to self-report criminal charges. A misdemeanor drug or assault arrest can lead to a temporary suspension and an investigation into your fitness to practice.

• Teachers and Educators (SBEC / TEA)
  The Texas Education Agency can revoke a teaching certificate for certain arrests or convictions—especially those involving drugs, violence, or any conduct that could occur around students.

• Real Estate Agents (TREC)
  The Texas Real Estate Commission investigates criminal conduct that may relate to “trustworthiness” or “moral character.” Even a first-time misdemeanor can trigger a license denial or disciplinary hearing.

• Contractors and Trades (TDLR)
  Electricians, HVAC techs, barbers, and cosmetologists licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation may face denials or revocations for many types of criminal offenses.

• Doctors and Pharmacists (Texas Medical Board / Pharmacy Board)
  These boards will often act swiftly if they believe a physician or pharmacist is impaired, engaging in fraud, or committing any act that could affect public safety.

Do You Have to Report Your Arrest?
Often, yes. Many professional licensing boards require you to self-report any arrest or charge—even before a conviction. Failing to report can result in even harsher consequences than the crime itself. But the timing and method of that disclosure matter. Before you report anything, talk to a criminal defense attorney who understands how these agencies work.

How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help?
At Texas Defenders, we represent professionals across Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, McKinney, Denton, and surrounding areas who are facing criminal charges and license risk. We:

• Fight the criminal case to protect your record.

• Coordinate with administrative lawyers or licensing board counsel.

• Help draft disclosure letters and responses to board inquiries.

• Seek dismissals, reductions, or plea agreements that minimize professional harm.

We understand that a criminal charge can threaten not just your freedom—but your entire career.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will I lose my nursing license if I'm charged with DWI in Texas?
A: Not automatically, but the Texas Board of Nursing requires you to report the arrest. They may open an investigation and consider temporary discipline, especially if the charge suggests impairment. Early legal intervention is critical to protecting your license.

Q: Do I have to tell my licensing board if I get arrested?
A: Most Texas licensing boards require prompt self-reporting of criminal charges, even if you haven't been convicted. Failing to report can result in additional penalties. Always consult a criminal defense lawyer before reporting to ensure your rights are protected.

Q: What if my case gets dismissed? Can the board still discipline me?
A: Yes. Even if your case is dismissed or resolved without a conviction, licensing boards may still investigate your conduct. They are focused on public trust and fitness to practice, not just legal guilt. A dismissal helps—but doesn't guarantee immunity from discipline.

Q: I'm a teacher in Texas. Will an assault arrest affect my certification?
A: Possibly. The State Board for Educator Certification can discipline or revoke licenses for violent offenses, especially if they could impact student safety. An assault-family violence charge, even if minor, can be a red flag. Prompt legal defense and guidance are essential.

Q: How do I protect my professional license after an arrest?
A: First, hire a criminal defense attorney familiar with licensing board issues. Then avoid making statements to investigators until you've received legal advice. A smart defense strategy aims not only for a good court outcome, but also for minimizing board consequences.

Q: Can I expunge or seal my record to protect my license?
A: In some cases, yes. If your case is dismissed or you qualify for deferred adjudication, you may be eligible for expunction or nondisclosure in Texas. This can help limit future visibility of your case—but timing and eligibility rules are strict. Ask us if you qualify.

Q: What areas does Texas Defenders serve for professional license defense?
A: We represent professionals throught the State of Texas with our main office handling cases in Dallas County, Collin County, Tarrant County, Denton County, and cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, McKinney, Plano, Frisco, Denton, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, DeSoto.

Act Fast to Protect Your License and Your Future
If you've been arrested and you hold a professional license, don't wait. You need immediate legal advice that takes into account both the criminal court and your licensing board. Texas Defenders is here to protect your rights, your name, and your livelihood.

Call us today at 214-306-9696 for a free and confidential consultation.