Can a Sealed Record Stop You From Getting a Professional License in Texas?

April 8, 2026

A past mistake shouldn’t permanently block your career. If your record was sealed in Texas, you may still qualify for a professional license.

For many Texans, earning a professional license is an important step toward building a stable career. 

Whether it’s healthcare, education, real estate, or another regulated profession, licensing often opens doors to long-term opportunities. But people who have a past criminal case, even one that has been sealed often worry that it could still affect their ability to obtain a professional license.

The good news is that Texas law provides meaningful protections for individuals whose records have been sealed or made subject to an order of nondisclosure. However, certain exceptions exist depending on the profession and the licensing authority involved. Understanding how sealed records interact with licensing decisions can help applicants move forward with confidence.

What a Sealed Record Means in Texas
When a criminal record is sealed through an order of nondisclosure, the information is hidden from the general public and most background checks. This means that in many situations, individuals are not legally required to disclose the case, and private employers typically cannot access the sealed record.

The purpose of nondisclosure is to allow people who have successfully resolved their cases to move forward without being unfairly limited by a past incident. In many areas of life, including employment and housing, this protection can significantly improve opportunities.

Special Protections for Sealed Juvenile Records
Texas law provides particularly strong protections when juvenile records are sealed.

Under Texas Family Code § 58.261, a person whose juvenile records have been sealed:
  • Is not required to disclose the existence of the case
  • Cannot have the sealed records used against them
  • Cannot have their denial of the record used in licensing or employment decisions
The law specifically states that sealed juvenile records cannot be used in licensing applications, civil proceedings, or employment decisions. This protection ensures that youthful mistakes do not permanently affect someone’s future.

When Licensing Boards May Still Consider Criminal History

Even though sealed records are generally protected, certain licensing authorities may still review criminal history in specific circumstances. Under Texas Occupations Code § 53.021, licensing agencies may deny or revoke a license if a person has been convicted of an offense that:
  • Directly relates to the duties of the licensed profession
  • Is considered a serious or violent offense under Texas law
These provisions are intended to protect public safety in professions that require high levels of trust or responsibility. However, it is important to note that not every offense automatically disqualifies an applicant, and licensing boards must consider the circumstances of each case.
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Agencies That May Access Nondisclosed Records

Although nondisclosure hides records from the public, some government agencies are still permitted to access them.


Under Texas Government Code § 411.0765, certain licensing and regulatory entities may receive nondisclosed criminal history information for limited purposes.


These may include agencies responsible for licensing professionals in fields such as:

  • education
  • healthcare
  • law
  • child care
  • law enforcement

Access does not automatically mean the license will be denied. Instead, the agency may review the information as part of the overall eligibility evaluation.


Why This Matters for Licensing Applicants

Many people assume that a sealed record automatically prevents them from obtaining a professional license. In reality, Texas law often allows individuals with nondisclosure orders to pursue careers in licensed professions.


Licensing boards typically consider factors such as:

  • the nature of the offense
  • how long ago the incident occurred
  • evidence of rehabilitation
  • whether the offense relates to the duties of the profession

For many applicants, a sealed record does not prevent licensing, especially when the case was resolved successfully and time has passed.


Moving Forward After a Sealed Record

If you are concerned about how a past case may affect your professional future, it may be helpful to explore whether you qualify for expunction or nondisclosure relief.


Clearing or sealing eligible records can help reduce barriers when applying for jobs, housing, or professional licenses. Understanding the legal protections available under Texas law is an important step toward rebuilding opportunities and achieving long-term career goals.


If you have questions about expunction or nondisclosure in Texas, the attorneys at Expungement.Legal are here to help.


Expungement.Legal is operated by Wyde & Associates, PLLC, a Texas law firm representing clients statewide in expunctions and nondisclosures. Our team helps Texans determine eligibility, clear qualifying records, and move forward with greater confidence.


Contact us today to learn whether you may qualify to seal or clear your criminal record under Texas law!