HVAC License Requirements: State-by-State

HVAC license requirements by state

HVAC license requirements can vary greatly between states, cities, and even counties. We’ll cover some of the commonalities and key differences, or you can check out our state-by-state HVAC licensing guides below. Always confirm specifics with your local licensing board.

Common requirements across states

Most states require licensed HVAC professionals to:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Hold a high school diploma or GED
• Complete either a formal training program or apprenticeship
• Log a minimum number of on-the-job training hours (often 2,000 to 6,000)
• Pass a trade exam and background check

If you plan to work as an independent contractor or start your own HVAC business, most states also require you to show proof of general liability insurance and to provide a surety bond.

Variations in licensing laws by state

Even with shared elements, licensing laws can differ widely between states. Some require additional specialty certifications, while others have unique rules for the types of work you’re allowed to perform. 

In Delaware, for example, HVAC professionals must hold one of two licenses: the Master HVACR Restricted license, which permits work in one specialty area, or the Master HVACR license, which allows broader service. 

To qualify, you’ll need a journeyman’s certificate and two years of experience under a master contractor. Without that certificate, seven years of supervised experience are required. Other states may have different exam formats or continuing education mandates, so research your location’s specific path.

How to find your state’s HVAC licensing board

Start by searching online for “[Your State] HVAC licensing board” or “[Your State] Department of Labor and Industry.” Look for official government websites that end in .gov, as these are the most reliable. Check for licensing requirements, application forms, exam schedules, and fee structures. 

You can also visit the National Council of State Boards of Examiners website for a directory of licensing boards by state.

Steps to get your HVAC license

Getting your HVAC license typically involves a multi-step process that includes training, experience, exams, and paperwork. Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect.

Step 1: Meet eligibility criteria

Before applying for an HVAC license, you’ll need to meet some basic eligibility standards. As outlined above, this includes:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Holding a high school diploma or GED
• Being a U.S. citizen or legal resident

Some states also require a clean criminal background, especially for felony convictions. Depending on the state, you may also need to show proof of relevant work experience or vocational training before you’re allowed to sit for the licensing exam. Always check with your local board for specific eligibility rules.

Step 2: Complete education and training prerequisites

Most states require HVAC professionals to complete formal training before applying for a license. Options include:

• Trade schools offering HVAC certificate programs (typically 6-12 months)
• Community college associate degree programs (usually 2 years)
• Technical schools with hands-on lab experience (​​6 months-2 years, depending on the curriculum and certification offered)

Alternatively, some aspiring technicians join a registered apprenticeship program, where classroom instruction is combined with paid, on-the-job training.

Step 3: Get hands-on work experience

Hands-on experience is a key part of becoming a licensed HVAC technician. Most states require either:

• 2 to 5 years of work experience under a licensed contractor
• A combination of formal education and supervised work hours

Apprenticeships are one of the most common ways to meet these requirements. Through a state-registered program or union apprenticeship, you’ll gain both classroom instruction and field experience. Some programs may even help cover licensing exam costs or offer job placement upon completion.

Step 4: Prepare for the HVAC licensing exam

The HVAC licensing exam typically tests your knowledge of:

• HVAC system design and operation
• Safety codes and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines
• Local building codes and regulations
• Troubleshooting and repair techniques

To prepare, consider the following:

• Take prep courses offered by trade schools or online providers such as McGraw Hill or tests.com 
• Use official exam prep books and practice tests
• Review your hands-on experience and class materials
• Join study groups or forums for peer support

A structured study schedule and strategic test-day preparation can make a big difference.

Step 5: Apply for your HVAC license

Once you’ve met all the training and experience requirements, it’s time to apply for your HVAC license. Here’s what to expect:

• Where to apply: State licensing board or Department of Labor/Industry
• Documents needed: Proof of identity, training certificates, exam results, insurance, and experience documentation
• Fees: Application and exam fees vary but can range from $50 to $300
• Timeline: Approval can take a few weeks to several months

Here are some tips to help the application process go as smoothly as possible:

• Double-check all required documents before submission
• Make sure your work experience aligns with the board’s requirements
• Submit your application well before any exam deadlines
• Keep copies of everything you submit for your records

Types of HVAC licenses and certifications

Earlier, we mentioned that HVAC licensing can look different depending on where you live and the type of work you plan to do. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the most common types of HVAC licenses and certifications, what they mean, and why they matter for your career.

Difference between an HVAC license and certification

Though often used interchangeably, HVAC licenses and certifications serve different purposes. A license is a legal requirement that allows you to perform HVAC work in a particular state or locality. It’s issued by a government agency and typically requires meeting experience, education, and exam criteria. Without a license, you could face fines or legal consequences for performing HVAC services.

A certification, on the other hand, is usually optional but valuable. It demonstrates your skill in specific areas, such as refrigeration, system diagnostics, or energy efficiency. Certifications like those from NATE or HVAC Excellence grow your credibility but don’t replace the need for a state-issued license.

Contractor vs. technician license

The distinction between a contractor and a technician license comes down to responsibility and business ownership. A technician license allows you to perform HVAC work under the supervision of a licensed contractor. This includes installing, maintaining, and repairing systems, but not bidding on jobs or running a business.

A contractor license, by contrast, gives you permission to own and operate an HVAC business. It typically requires more experience, proof of liability insurance, and sometimes a separate business and law exam. If your goal is to manage jobs and hire employees, you’ll need a contractor license in most states.

Specialized HVAC licenses

Some types of HVAC work require additional certifications or licenses. For example, anyone handling refrigerants must hold an EPA Section 608 Certification, a federal requirement. Other common specialty certifications include:

• NATE (North American Technician Excellence) for general and specialty skills
• HVAC Excellence for education-based competency
• RETA (Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Association) for industrial refrigeration
• BPI (Building Performance Institute) for energy efficiency and home performance
• National Balancing Institute Certification for air and hydronic balancing

Additionally, some states offer specialty licenses for working with gas lines, oil systems, or commercial refrigeration, depending on the scope of your work.

HVAC license costs

The total cost to get an HVAC license varies by state and license type, ranging anywhere from $500 to $2,000. Costs can include application fees, exam prep, and insurance. Here’s a general overview of how much you can expect to spend.

Exam fees

HVAC exam fees typically range from $50 to $150, depending on the state and the type of exam required. Some states break this into two parts:

• Application fee: Paid when submitting your exam registration
• Exam fee: Paid on the day you sit for the test

Additionally, specialty certifications may come with their own fees. For example, the EPA Section 608 exam has fees that can range from $40 to $240, depending on the type and number of sections taken. Be sure to check your state’s specific breakdown when budgeting for your license.

Application and licensing fees

After passing your exam, you’ll need to submit an official application and pay the required fees to obtain your HVAC license. These typically include:

• A nonrefundable application fee
• A licensing fee to issue your certificate

Fees vary by location but often range from $75 to $300 combined. For example, in St. Paul, Minnesota, the application fee is $55, and the annual fee for trade licenses is $188. Additional charges may apply for background checks, fingerprinting, or issuing a physical license card. Be sure to review your city or state board’s fee schedule carefully to avoid delays or unexpected costs.

Renewal fees and continuing education

HVAC licenses must be renewed regularly, typically every one to three years, depending on your state. Renewal usually involves:

• A renewal fee ranging from $50 to $200
• Proof of completed continuing education units (CEUs) covering topics like updated codes, safety practices, or energy efficiency

For example, in Florida, HVAC contractors must renew their license every two years and complete specific CEU requirements to stay in good standing. Failing to renew on time can result in penalties or license suspension, so it’s important to keep track of your renewal schedule and ongoing education needs.

How to renew your HVAC license

Keeping your HVAC license active is just as important as getting it in the first place. In this section, we’ll explain how to maintain and renew your HVAC license, no matter where you’re based.

Renewal timelines

HVAC license renewal timelines vary by state, but most fall into one-, two-, or three-year intervals. For example, Florida requires contractors to renew every two years, while other states may have annual renewals. Some local jurisdictions have their own rules, so make sure to confirm with your state’s licensing board or local regulatory authority.

Many licensing boards send renewal reminders by mail or email, but don’t rely on them alone. Keep a personal calendar or use business software like Housecall Pro to track upcoming renewal dates and stay in compliance.

Continuing education requirements 

Continuing education helps HVAC professionals stay current with industry standards, safety codes, and new technologies. CEU requirements vary by state. For example, California doesn’t require continuing education for HVAC technicians at the state level, while Georgia requires licensed HVAC contractors to complete eight hours every two years.

Approved courses can often be found through trade schools, unions, or online learning platforms. Failing to meet CEU requirements can delay your license renewal or lead to penalties, so it’s worth planning your hours well before your renewal deadline.

Consequences of letting your license lapse

Letting your HVAC license lapse can cause serious setbacks. You may face fines, be required to retake your licensing exam, or lose your ability to work legally. In Minnesota, the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) has the authority to issue administrative orders requiring unlicensed contractors to cease and desist. 

Violators can face monetary penalties up to $10,000 per violation, and repeated unlicensed work may result in gross misdemeanor charges and criminal prosecution. Staying on top of renewals protects your professional reputation.

Tips for passing the HVAC licensing exam

Preparing for your HVAC licensing exam can feel overwhelming, but the right approach makes all the difference. In this section, we’ll share practical tips to help you study smarter, reduce stress, and improve your chances of passing on the first try.

Study resources and materials 

The right study materials can make a big difference. Popular textbooks like Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning and Delmar’s Standard Textbook of Electricity offer solid technical foundations. Online platforms such as Coursera, Penn Foster, and SkillCat provide flexible HVAC prep courses. 

Don’t overlook government publications and your state licensing board’s website. Many offer free handbooks outlining exam content and local code requirements.

Practice exams and prep courses 

Practice exams help you get familiar with the format, pacing, and types of questions you’ll encounter on test day. They also highlight areas where you may need extra study. Many prep courses offered online or through trade schools provide sample questions, video lessons, and exam strategies. 

Platforms like HVACRedu.net and NATE offer reputable resources to sharpen your knowledge and build confidence before the real test.

Common exam topics and questions 

HVAC licensing exams typically cover a wide range of subjects to assess both technical and regulatory knowledge. Expect questions on electrical systems, HVAC codes, refrigeration cycle theory, and equipment troubleshooting. Safety procedures, especially around refrigerants and gas lines, are also heavily tested. 

Many exams include math calculations and real-world scenario questions. Make sure to review state-specific building codes and national standards like the International Mechanical Code (IMC) as part of your prep.

How Housecall Pro can help HVAC professionals

Part of starting your HVAC career means staying organized and planning for growth. Tools like Housecall Pro make that easier. In this section, we’ll show how Housecall Pro supports HVAC pros with business plan templates, HVAC software, and HVAC tool recommendations.

Managing licenses and certifications digitally 

Housecall Pro helps HVAC professionals stay on top of license and certification requirements with built-in tools to store documents, track expiration dates, and set automatic renewal reminders. Instead of scrambling to find paperwork or missing important deadlines, you can manage everything in one place straight from your phone or tablet. 

It’s also easy to upload supporting documentation like CEU completions or test results. Paired with helpful templates and calculations, this feature keeps your compliance organized and stress-free.

Scheduling, invoicing, and compliance tools 

Running an HVAC business involves more than completing installations and repairs. To simplify monotonous and time-consuming back-office tasks, we provide tools for job scheduling, automated invoicing, and real-time updates. These features help you stay organized, get paid faster, and keep projects moving without drowning in paperwork.

Growing your HVAC business with Housecall Pro

Whether you’re just starting out or ready to expand, Housecall Pro provides the structure you need to grow. Use features like customer tracking, marketing campaigns, and reporting dashboards to understand what’s working and where to improve. 

We even offer helpful resources like an employment application template to support hiring as your team grows. With everything in one place, Housecall Pro empowers HVAC professionals to build stronger businesses and reach long-term goals with less guesswork.