Ohio HVAC: How to get certified and licensed in OH

Offering HVAC services in Ohio requires obtaining the appropriate licensing, especially if you plan to work on commercial buildings or start your own HVAC business.
This guide provides comprehensive information on the licensing requirements, including education, experience, and examination details.

Do you need a license in Ohio to become an HVAC technician?

A license from the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) is required to work on commercial buildings. No license is needed for residential properties.

Benefits of getting an HVAC license

Licensed technicians typically earn higher pay per hour and have more job opportunities, as a license makes you more attractive to customers and employers. Additionally, in Ohio, an HVAC license is required to hire other contractors.

Average salary for HVAC techs in Ohio

The average salary for an HVAC technician in Ohio is approximately $50,270 per year, which is in line with the national average of $50,590 annually​.

What are the different types of HVAC licenses?

Several types of Ohio HVAC licenses are available

EPA Certification

Required for working with coolants, including small appliances, low-pressure coolants, high-pressure coolants, or all three. 

NATE Certification

Demonstrates advanced knowledge and expertise in HVAC systems. 

Journeyman License

Allows you to work under a Master HVAC technician. 

Master HVAC Technician License

Enables you to own a business and hire employees. 

HVAC Engineer

Requires a bachelor’s degree in addition to certifications, allowing for system design and construction. 

Differences

HVAC focuses on the location and mechanisms of coolants, while refrigeration involves coolant circulation and vaporization.

How much does it cost to get an HVAC license in Ohio?

The application fee to sit for the Ohio HVAC license examination is currently $69 plus a $25 application fee.

Renewal and continuing education

Licenses must be renewed annually and ten hours of continuing education are required each year.

How to get an HVAC license in Ohio

The Ohio Department of Commerce sets the requirements for those wishing to obtain an Ohio HVAC license.

Is schooling required?

Schooling is only required if you want to be an HVAC engineer.

What are the best HVAC schools in Ohio?

The Career and Technology Education Centers of Licking County has a 71% passing rate and will cost a little over $6,000 to complete. The Great Oaks Institute of Technology and Career Development will cost around $7,000 and boasts a passing rate of 83%. The Polaris Career Center has a passing rate of 95% and costs nearly $8,000.

While many of the tools you need are included in these prices, you may need to purchase additional items as noted in the coursework for each school. They may require a high school diploma or GED to attend, so check the institution’s requirements.

Most training programs will require classroom attendance. Online schools from other states offer classes to Ohio residents. Financing may be available. Some schools accept grants while others will provide loans or other payment options. Check with the school’s financial aid department for more information.

On-the-job experience

You will need to work as an HVAC technician for at least 5 years immediately before you sit for the exam. However, you will only need 3 years of work experience if you’ve already become an HVAC engineer. While there are no hours specified to complete, it is assumed that you have worked an average number of hours with no gaps in employment for the full time period. All work experience must be on jobs in which a permit was required.

Licensing Requirements

Here are the key steps and requirements to obtain the license:

1. Education and Experience:
   • Experience: Five years of work experience as an HVAC tradesperson, or three years if you have an HVAC engineer background.
   • Education: Trade school programs can supplement experience, but formal schooling is not required unless pursuing an HVAC engineer role.
2. Best HVAC Schools in Ohio:
   
   • Career and Technology Education Centers of Licking County: Passing rate of 71%, cost around $6,000.
   • Great Oaks Institute of Technology and Career Development: Passing rate of 83%, cost around $7,000.
   • Polaris Career Center: Passing rate of 95%, cost nearly $8,000.
3. On-the-Job Experience:
   • HVAC Technician: Five years of experience required immediately before the exam.
   • HVAC Engineer: Three years of experience required.
4. Licensing Issuer:
   • Licensing Body: Ohio Department of Commerce.
5. Examinations:
   • Content: Includes a trade exam covering HVAC topics and a business and law exam.
   • Format: Open-book exam with materials like the 2015 International Fuel Gas Code, 2017 Ohio Mechanical Code and Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning.

Checklist for Obtaining an HVAC License in Ohio

1. Meet Basic Requirements:
   • Be at least 18 years old.
   • Hold a high school diploma or GED.
2. Gain Work Experience:
   • Accumulate five years of relevant HVAC work experience, or three years if you hold an HVAC engineer degree.
3. Submit Application:
   • Complete and submit the application form with the necessary fees and supporting documentation.
4. Pass Examinations:
   • Pass the trade exam and the business and law exam.
5. Obtain Insurance and Bond:
   • Secure general liability insurance and a surety bond if required by the municipality.
6. Maintain License:
   • Renew the license annually and complete the required continuing education hours.

Want more information?

Visit the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) website for detailed information on licensing requirements and exam schedules.