Nevada HVAC license: Everything you need to know

Nevada summers are no joke. When the temps climb into the triple digits—and stay there for months—the services of experienced HVAC installers, techs, and mechanics are in high demand. Although summer may be a very busy season for heating and cooling professionals, the work is still steady in the winter months, too. In fact, the U.S. Department of Labor anticipates a 21% increase in HVAC job growth.

If you seek a challenging and rewarding career with significant growth potential, an HVAC position in Nevada may be ideal for you. Our guide explains the steps you need to secure your HVAC license in Nevada, as well as helpful links for education and training resources. Let’s get started!

What are the different types of HVAC licenses in Nevada?

The state of Nevada does not require HVAC installers, technicians, or mechanics to hold an HVAC license. However, if you plan to open your own business, become an HVAC contractor, or you’re a contractor who completes HVAC work, then you must have a Nevada HVAC contractors license issued by the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB). This agency oversees all licensing in Nevada and sets licensing requirements.

There are two main types of contractor licenses issued by the NCSB:

• Plumbing and Heating Contracting License
• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning License

Several classifications exist within these types of licenses. Depending on the kind of HVAC jobs you plan to do, you may need multiple classifications of licenses.

The classifications of contractor licenses available for HVAC work are:

• Class A Engineering
• Class B General Building
• Class C Specialty Contractor License

While you aren’t required to have a license for many types of HVAC work in Nevada, several optional licenses and certifications may be obtained, which can help you obtain more diverse jobs or a higher rate of pay.

EPA License

If you plan to work on refrigeration units or a cooling unit that contains refrigerant, you must have a Section 608 Certification issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA also issues a few other types of certifications that permit you to perform certain niche jobs. EPA certifications are valid in all 50 states.

NATE Certificate

The North American Technical Excellence (NATE) is the largest nationwide non-profit agency issuing certifications for a variety of trades, including heating, cooling, ventilation, and refrigeration. You can begin your career by securing the “ready to work” certificate or obtaining other certifications that indicate you’re capable of certain specialty work. NATE Certifications indicate those with exceptional skills and training and are recognized in all 50 states.

Benefits of Getting an HVAC License

Although you aren’t required to have a Nevada contractor license for HVAC work unless you are a contractor, holding a license or other certifications demonstrates that you have a certain level of skills and training. In addition, some cities or counties in Nevada may require a license for HVAC work.  

In addition, obtaining specialty licenses and certifications demonstrates to potential employers or clients that you have mastered certain skills and can help you negotiate a higher salary.

Average earnings for HVAC professionals in Nevada

The average hourly rate for HVAC techs, mechanics, and installers in Nevada is $27.40 per hour, although the range of earnings is wide, from a low of $16.07 per hour to a high of $46.73 per hour. This is a wide range and includes apprentice wages. If you have lengthy experience or specialized skills, you may be able to command a higher rate of pay. In addition, some employers may permit you to work overtime and thus earn more money or offer a higher rate of pay for evening or weekend work.

Salaried HVAC professionals, such as field supervisors or managers, may earn an average of $97,366 per year. The range is also wide, from $66,021 per year to $143,592 per year. This, too, is a wide range, and the same facts about education, training, and experience that apply to hourly HVAC workers apply to salaried ones.

A few more things that may impact how much you make include where you live; areas with a high cost of living tend to offer higher rates of pay. And, if you possess several EPA and NATE certifications, you may be able to demand more money than someone with the same education and training who does not have these certifications.

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

The license application fee for a contractor’s license in Nevada is $300. However, there are other associated costs with obtaining a contractor’s license. You must first have a Nevada business license issued by the Nevada Secretary of State. The cost of your business license varies depending on the type of business license you are applying for. There’s also a financial statement requirement, which could be a few hundred or more dollars, depending on the cost of the CPA.

How to get an HVAC license in Nevada

To secure a Nevada HVAC license, you must complete the following:

• Submit a license application to the Nevada State Contractors Board ($300)
• Obtain the proper Nevada state business license from the NV Secretary of State
• Submit proof of at least 4 years of experience working as a journeyman, supervising employee, site foreman, or contractor for each classification or type of license you’re applying for. This experience must be within 15 years of the date of our application. You may be able to submit proof of a degree or educational training from an accredited degree program in lieu of the work experience.
• Submit a financial statement prepared by a licensed CPS based on your monetary limit. A license’s monetary limit is the maximum contract amount for one client at one site. If you are requesting a monetary limit of less than $10,000, you may submit a statement instead of one prepared by a CPA.

Exams Required for a Nevada HVAC License

There are specific contractor licensing requirements, including an open-book business and law exam and a closed-book trade exam relating to the license you’re testing for. If you have an HVAC contractor license from another state, then the licensing board may waive your exam requirements as long as your license qualifies for a license by endorsement. You may test for contractor exams at different sites in Reno and Las Vegas, as well as PSI-proctored testing facilities throughout the state.

The EPA requires exams for each certification it issues, as does NATE.

Nevada HVAC insurance and bonding requirements

There is no statewide requirement for insurance or bonding. However, depending on the scope and price of the project (and sometimes a client’s wishes), a surety bond may also be required. In addition, if you have an HVAC contractor business, you may be required to carry Nevada workers’ compensation insurance. Plus, you must pass a criminal background check to obtain your license.

Nevada HVAC licensing and renewal requirements

Licenses in Nevada must be renewed every two years. Although continuing education isn’t required for Nevada HVAC contractors, it is encouraged so that contractors remain up-to-date with industry changes.