Hawaii HVAC: How to get certified and licensed in HI

The HVAC demands in Hawaii are unique; as an HVAC professional, your skills may be in high demand year-round from both residential and commercial customers.

Our guide explains the steps necessary to become a licensed HVAC professional in the Aloha state, with helpful links and detailed information.

What are the different types of HVAC licenses in Hawaii?

Hawaii HVAC professionals must have a valid C-52 Ventilating and Air Conditioning Contractor license issued by the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA). In addition to this license, there are optional licenses that permit you to perform specialty or niche work:

• C-13 Electrical Contractor License
• C-40 Refrigeration Contractor License
• C-44 Sheet Metal Contractor License

The state does not require entry-level or apprenticeship licensing.

Beyond the Hawaii HVAC licenses that you must have to legally perform HVAC work, there are a few options for certifications that demonstrate your knowledge and skills and permit you to perform certain types of work.

EPA Certification

An EPA Section 608 Technician Certification is a federal permit that certifies you to work on refrigeration units or cooling equipment that uses refrigerant. Once you get the certification, you can use it in all 50 states, and it never expires.

NATE Certificate

The North American Technical Excellence is the largest non-profit organization certifying HVAC professionals in the country. It offers several different types of certifications, from “ready to work” to certain niche specialties. NATE certification designates HVAC professionals as the best and most knowledgeable. It may also help you command a higher salary.

Benefits of getting an HVAC license

Without a Hawaii HVAC license, you cannot legally perform heating, cooling, or ventilation installation, repair, or maintenance. Your license demonstrates that you hold the requisite skills and knowledge to complete high-quality work and that you have been properly vetted by the state.

What is the average salary for HVAC professionals in Hawaii?

Hourly HVAC mechanics and technicians in Hawaii can earn anywhere from $22.38 to $45.73 per hour, although most earn close to the state median hourly wage of $31.99. Many employers offer a higher pay rate for people working nights or weekends to answer emergency calls. You may also work overtime; both of these can boost your earning potential.

The average salary for an HVAC manager or field supervisor is $79,382 per year, although the range is broad, from $67,674 to $93,116 per year. You may be eligible for bonuses from your employer, which can boost your yearly income. HVAC contractors who own their own businesses may make even more than this.

Your pay, whether hourly or salary, depends heavily on your length of experience, education, and ability to perform niche work.

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

The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs issues HVAC licenses in Hawaii. The fees associated with getting your Hawaii HVAC license are as follows:

• Application Fees: $153 for initial application
• Exam Fees: $120 for the EPA certification and around $65 for each additional exam
• License Fees: $415 if licensed between October 1st of odd-numbered years and September 30th of even-numbered years

Some cities may require a municipal HVAC license or permit; check with your local city government to determine if you need an additional license to perform work there.

How to get an HVAC license in Hawaii

To get a license for HVAC in Hawaii, you must be at least 18 years old and hold either a high school diploma or have earned your GED. Then, you need at least four years of work experience supervised by a licensed HVAC professional. If you choose to get additional specialty lines, you may need additional work experience in that niche.

Completing an HVAC training program, earning an Associate’s Degree in HVAC, or attending trade school is not mandatory for getting an HVAC license, although many people find the formal education beneficial. Programs are available at institutions such as Honolulu Community College and Kaua’i Community College.

Exams required for a Hawaii HVAC license

To become licensed for HVAC work in Hawaii, you must pass the HVAC contractor exam. It consists of 80 questions, and you must pass with a score of 75%. You’ll be tested on various HVAC principles, installation, and maintenance. This is a closed-book exam.

You must also take a Business and dLaw exam covering the legal and business-related aspects of HVAC work. Although this exam is open-book, you should still study for it.

Hawaiit HVAC exams are proctored by Prometric, a third-party testing service. You may sign up for your exam through their service and pay your fees directly to Prometric.

There are three types of EPS Section 608 Certifications: Type I, II, and III. Each has an exam covering different types of HVAC systems. You must pass each exam with a score of 70%.

Hawaii HVAC insurance and bonding requirements

You must carry general liability insurance with a minimum of $100,000 per incident, $300,000 per occurrence, and $50,000 for property damage. Depending on the scope of the work, cost, and client, a surety bond may also be required in some cases.

If you are an HVAC contractor with employees, Hawaii state law requires you to carry workers’ compensation insurance as well.

Hawaii HVAC licensing renewal and continuing education requirements

Hawaii doesn’t currently require continuing education to renew your HVAC license. However, laws can change, so make sure you stay updated about license renewal requirements. To maintain a current HVAC license, you must renew it every two years, on September of even-numbered years. You must also submit proof of current liability insurance and workers’ compensation (if applicable) policies.