Getting a Tennessee HVAC license provides an opportunity for career advancement. Technicians enjoy fair wages and job flexibility. Applying for a license requires a significant investment. However, it is worth the effort.

This guide contains everything you need to know to get started in HVAC in Tennessee.

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

Tennessee requires HVAC/refrigeration technicians and contractors to have a valid license, issued by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, through the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors, to perform HVAC work on commercial and residential properties.

What are the different types of HVAC licenses?

The HVAC/Refrigeration contractor license is available in Tennessee. Applicants must take two examinations to qualify for this license. Tennessee HVAC/Refrigeration contractors perform maintenance and install a variety of equipment, including ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, heating, geothermal HVAC equipment, and gas piping. Applicants must:

• Pass the official Tennessee HVAC/Refrigeration exam and the Business/Law exam
• Provide financial statements to the licensing board
• Carry workers’ compensation insurance, if hiring employees
• Have experience working as an HVAC apprentice
• Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED
• Possess general liability insurance up to $1,000,000

HVAC contractors maintain, install, and repair heating and air conditioning systems for businesses and residential properties. Refrigeration contractors repair, troubleshoot, and install equipment, such as beverage dispensers, refrigerated storage units, and ice machines. In Tennessee, contractors with an HVAC/Refrigeration contractor license are authorized to work on heating/air conditioning and refrigeration units. HVAC/Refrigeration contractor licenses are issued by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance.

Average wages for HVAC professionals in Tennessee

Most HVAC techs, mechanics, and apprentices make an hourly wage, not a salary. In Tennessee, you may earn anywhere from $16.08 to $44.58, depending on your certifications and license, experience, and where you live. Additionally, you may be able to earn overtime pay for working weekends or nights when emergency calls come in. 

An HVAC supervisor in Tennessee is typically paid a salary; the state average is $77,202. However, depending on your experience, where you live, and your job responsibilities, you may earn anywhere from $57,058 to $97,256. 

Benefits of getting an HVAC license

HVAC/Refrigeration technicians have a high job satisfaction rate. They solve problems and build customer relationships. The HVAC industry is expected to grow by 14% in the next decade. This growth provides an added level of job security. HVAC technicians are physically active. This increased level of activity reduces the risk of obesity and certain conditions, such as heart disease and high blood pressure. HVAC apprentices earn money while they learn the trade. 

Other job benefits that apprentices receive are health insurance, vacation pay, and personal leave. Complete your HVAC/Refrigeration courses quickly. In less than a year, you can take your examinations and get your Tennessee HVAC license. The HVAC industry is experiencing a shortage of skilled HVAC technicians. Many employment options exist with companies, small businesses, non-profit organizations, and school systems.

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

HVAC licensing fees in Tennessee are as follows:

•         New contractor license fee:  $250 (issued for 2 years)
•         Renewal contractor license fee:  $200
•         Reinstatement of contractor license (expired more than 12 months) fee:  $250

In addition, BC- A or BC-A/r Contractors must complete 8 hours of continuing education with each bi-annual renewal.

How to get an HVAC license in Tennessee?

Apply for a Tennessee HVAC/Refrigeration program. Work under a licensed HVAC/Refrigeration technician. Then, complete the program and apply for your HVAC/Refrigeration license. You’ll receive your license after you pass two exams:

•         Statewide business and law exam: $57
•         Statewide trade exam: $57

Tennessee HVAC Training Programs and Schools

• Tennessee Registered Apprenticeship
• Online HVAC Training Program

Types of HVAC Classes

• Electrical heating
• Basic electricity for HVAC
• Air conditioning control principles
• Gas and electric heating
• HVAC systems design
• Water volume
• Energy management and green building design
• Power and resistance

Program Tuition Costs: Tuition for Tennessee HVAC trade schools and community college programs vary. Expect to pay up to $250 per credit hour for your Tennessee HVAC certification courses. Online course options are available. The classroom offers hands-on HVAC experiences that will help you pass your test.

HVAC program prerequisites

• Possess a Tennessee driver’s license or ID card.
• Have a high school diploma or a GED.
• Take a general aptitude placement test.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be physically capable of performing HVAC work.

On-the-job experience

• Learn Tennessee HVAC codes
• Perform HVAC and refrigeration work according to safety regulations.
• Install HVAC systems using blueprints
• Perform math calculations on a variety of HVAC and refrigeration jobs
• Maintain and install HVAC and refrigeration systems under the direction of a licensed HVAC/Refrigeration contractor
• Work at least 40 hours per week

Tennessee licensing exam details

• The fee is $57 per exam
• Passing score for both exams is 73%
• The exam has 100 questions (260-minute time limit)
• Exams are administered by PSI Exams

How to study for HVAC exams: Find a study partner or group. Read HVAC test preparation material. Hire an HVAC exam preparation tutor. Take practice exams. Ask questions in class to ensure that you understand the content. View HVAC installation and repair videos on YouTube.

Exam resources

• American contractor exam services
• PSI exam online