One-party consent

Call Recording Laws in Texas

United States · Last updated June 9, 2026

Texas is a one-party consent state: as long as you are a party to the conversation (or one participant consents), you may legally record it.

Governing law: Texas Penal Code § 16.02 and Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 123.001.

What the law says

  • If you are a participant in the call, your own consent is enough to record it legally.
  • You may not record a conversation you are not part of without the consent of at least one participant.
  • Recording made to commit a crime or tort (for example, blackmail) remains illegal regardless of consent.
  • Calls that cross state lines may bring in a stricter all-party state's rules — apply the stricter standard when unsure.

Recording business & sales calls

Texas-based teams recording their own sales and support calls are generally on solid ground under one-party consent. Many still announce recording as a best practice for transparency and because customers may be in stricter states.

Penalties for getting it wrong

Unlawful interception is a felony under § 16.02, and § 123.001 allows the injured party to recover statutory and actual damages plus attorney fees.

Frequently asked questions

Is recording a phone call legal in Texas?

Yes, if you are part of the conversation. Texas is a one-party consent state, so a participant can record the call without telling the other parties.

Do I have to tell the other person I am recording in Texas?

Not legally, if you are a party to the call. But announcing the recording is good practice and may be required if anyone on the call is in an all-party consent state.

Record calls compliantly with Teneks

Teneks records, transcribes, and analyzes calls with recording notices, access controls, and retention settings — so your team captures every conversation while staying on the right side of the rules. See how we handle data on our security page, or read the Baltic & Nordic recording guide.

Book a demoAll jurisdictions

This page is general information, not legal advice. Call recording and data protection rules change and depend on your specific situation. Confirm the current rules with a qualified lawyer in the relevant jurisdiction before recording.