Idaho HVAC: How to get certified and licensed in ID

Working as an HVAC technician in Idaho means you’ll have the opportunity to perform interesting, challenging work that helps people.

In this guide, you’ll find information about earning your Idaho HVAC license. Learn everything about the requirements, benefits, and costs.

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

You must possess an Idaho HVAC license to perform work in the state. Licenses are issued by the Idaho Division of Building Safety (DBS).

What are the different types of HVAC licenses?

Idaho offers four different types of HVAC licenses:

• HVAC Apprentice License
• HVAC Journeyman License
• HVAC Contractor License
• HVAC Specialty License

Apprentice Licenses

The HVAC Apprentice License allows you to work in the improvement, installation, alteration, repair, or extension of HVAC systems in Idaho. Licensed HVAC apprentices can only perform HVAC under the supervision of a licensed journeyman or contractor. The initial license fee is $10.

These licenses can be renewed with the Idaho Division of Building Safety (IDBS). Idaho HVAC Apprentice License renewals cost $50 annually.

Journeyman Licenses

The HVAC Journeyman License allows you to perform or supervise the improvement, installation, alteration, repair, or extension of HVAC systems. With a Journeyman license, you can work independently under the direction of a licensed contractor. The initial fee for a Journeyman license is $35.

Journeyman Licenses must be renewed annually. The cost is $75 prior to the expiration date or $110 within one year of the expiration date.

Contractor Licenses

The HVAC Contractor License allows you to perform HVAC services without supervision. The services offered may include installation, repair, or maintenance of HVAC appliances or gas-fired appliances. The initial fee for the license is $35 for the application fee and $75 for the licensing exam.

Contractors are required to carry a $2,000 bond and must renew their licenses within one year of their expiration date or retake the contractor’s test. The fee is $150 before the expiration date and $185 within two years after the expiration date.  

Specialty Licenses

The Specialty HVAC licenses cover certain types of HVAC work. Apprentice, journeyman, and contractor-level licenses are available for the different specialties. Here are the categories:

• Waste Oil
• Hearth
• LP Gas Limited Heating
• Fuel Gas Piping

Two types of optional licenses commonly held by Idaho HVAC technicians include:

• EPA license
• NATE certification

Individuals who work in the HVAC industry are required to earn a license from the Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA license is granted to people who demonstrate the proper level of knowledge to work with refrigerants that could damage the ozone layer of the atmosphere. The requirements of the EPA license are explained in Section 608 of the Clean Air Act.

NATE certification can translate into better pay for work. It is granted by the North American Technical Excellence organization and requires a demonstration of knowledge of HVAC equipment and processes.

Benefits of getting an HVAC license

Getting your Idaho HVAC License gives you access to jobs and opportunities for career advancement. With a license, you’re free to work on the installation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC equipment statewide. Plus, with an HVAC Contractor license, you can employ others to work for your company, thus increasing your income.

Average salaries for HVAC professionals in Idaho

Your hourly rate as an HVAC technician or mechanic in Idaho typically ranges between $17.12 to $41.34, although many earn around the state average of $26.60 per hour. If you earn overtime pay for working more than 40 hours per week, or if you receive a pay differential for working nights or weekends, then you may earn more per hour. Where you live, your education and experience, and what certifications also factor into your hourly rate.

Salaried HVAC professionals, too, may see their pay affected by education, experience, and where they live. The average salary for an HVAC Manager or Field Supervisor in Idaho is $85,967 per year, although the range is as low as $64,542 and as high as $114,503 per year.

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

The application and registration fees for an Idaho HVAC License vary based on the license type. Here are the fees: 

• Idaho HVAC Apprentice License Registration Fee – $10
• Idaho HVAC Journeyman License Fee – $35
• Idaho HVAC Contractor License Fee – $35
• Idaho HVAC License Renewal – $75
• Idaho HVAC License Late Renewal – $110
• Idaho HVAC Examination Fee, Pearson VUE – $100

How to get an HVAC license in Idaho

If you would like to study in a classroom environment, the following institutions offer HVAC programs in Idaho:

• College of Western Idaho
• Eastern Idaho Technical College
• Lewis-Clark State College
• North Idaho College
• College of Southern Idaho
• North Idaho College
• University of Idaho

Tuition, fees, and costs vary by school and may range from $750 to more than $20,000. Typical classes in an accredited HVAC program might include:

• HVAC Laws and Regulations
• Gas and Electric Heating
• Principles of Safe Work
• Principles of Refrigeration
• Energy Management
• Green Building Practices
• Principles of Heat Transfer

For more specific information about program requirements, contact the school directly. Many schools have financing options available.

HVAC Apprentice Licensees are required to prove four years in an HVAC program or work experience under a licensed HVAC technician. After completing the educational and on-the-job training requirements, you are free to apply for your license with the Idaho Division of Building Safety. The IDBS has downloadable information about state laws and rules. You also can download the relevant license application materials from their website.

Idaho HVAC License Exams

• Idaho HVAC Contractor’s Exam, Open Book
• Idaho Journeyman’s Exam, based on 2012 Code
• Idaho HVAC Journeyman’s Exam Waste Oil Specialty, based on 2012 Code
• Idaho HVAC Journeyman’s Exam Hearth Specialty, based on 2012 Code
• Idaho HVAC Journeyman’s Exam Gas Piping Specialty, based on 2012 Code

You can find resources, including the Idaho HVAC Codes and Administrative Rules and the manual for the business and law exam at the Idaho DBS HVAC page.

How Long Does It Take to Get an HVAC License in Idaho?

HVAC apprentice registration is valid for a period of five years. To register as an apprentice, you must be employed by an HVAC contractor and work under a licensed journeyman. To become a journeyman, you must work in the HVAC industry for four years or complete four years of HVAC education and work under a registered qualified journeyman licensee. Idaho offers reciprocity to license holders from other states.