Are you thinking about starting a career in the HVAC industry? Or maybe you’ve considered starting your own HVAC company? Now is the perfect time to go for it. With a shortage of skilled laborers in the United States, there are plenty of job opportunities for people who are willing to put in the work. 

The first step is to apply for an Alabama HVAC license. This guide will walk you through the licensing and education requirements.

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

Yes. The state of Alabama requires all HVAC techs to be licensed to perform heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration services on residential and commercial properties.

Benefits of getting an HVAC license

There are several upsides to receiving an Alabama HVAC license. First off, it will mean you can legally perform HVAC and refrigeration services for customers throughout the state. (That’s important!) Additionally, getting an HVAC license will allow you to:

• Develop new skills, learn the latest technologies and master repair techniques.
• Boost your credibility and expertise as an HVAC professional.
• Increase your earning potential with a competitive edge in the job market.
• Have an active, on-the-go career.

Average salary for HVAC techs in Alabama

The average salary for an HVAC tech in Alabama is around $49,380 per year, which equates to $23.74 per hour.¹ To put that in perspective, the average salary for HVAC techs nationwide is $57,300 per year.² Obviously, location within the state makes a difference. Expect a higher salary in Huntsville or Birmingham than Burnt Corn or Frog Eye.

What are the different types of HVAC licenses?

The two different types of licenses available in Alabama are HVAC contractor and refrigeration contractor. HVAC contractors are authorized to work on heating and air conditioning units. Refrigeration contractors are authorized to work on refrigeration systems. Applicants must take exams to get certified in each specialty area. 

HVAC contractors install, repair, and service air conditioning and heating systems. They work with mechanical equipment controlling humidity and temperature. Applicants for the Alabama HVAC contractor license must:

• Get approval from the Alabama licensing board to sit for the exam.
• Be registered as an HVAC apprentice.
• Complete a minimum of 3,000 hours of HVAC coursework.
• Graduate from an approved Alabama HVAC program.
• Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.

Refrigeration contractors install and repair refrigeration systems and replace pipes. Applicants for the Alabama refrigeration contractor license must:

• Pass an Alabama refrigeration contractor examination.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or GED.
• Graduate from an approved Alabama HVAC program.
• Be registered as an HVAC apprentice.
• Get approval to sit for the exam.
• Complete a minimum of 3,000 hours of HVAC coursework.

Contractor licenses are issued by the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors.

What does it cost to get an HVAC license in Alabama?

There are a few expenses associated with obtaining a license.³ 

Licensing Costs

• Apprenticeship Registration: $25 per certificate ($50 for both)⁴
• Examination Fee: $150 per exam​ 
• License Fee: $190 annually for active status, $95 for inactive status​ 

Renewal and Continuing Education

• Renewal: Licenses need to be renewed annually by December 31, with a renewal fee of $190.
• Continuing Education: HVAC contractors must complete four hours of continuing education each year to renew their license.

How to get an HVAC license in Alabama

The best place to start is by enrolling in an Alabama HVAC apprentice program. After completing the program, you’re eligible to sit for the HVAC contractor and refrigeration contractor exams.

Licensing Requirements

To work as an HVAC contractor in Alabama, you must be licensed by the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors. Here are the key steps and requirements to obtain the license:

1. Work Experience
   • Apprenticeship: Complete at least two years of apprenticeship under a licensed contractor. You must register as an apprentice with the state, paying a $25 fee per certificate—$50 for both heating and air conditioning, and refrigeration.⁵
   • Education: Graduate from an approved HVAC program. Approved programs include those from in-state two-year or community colleges​.
   • Work Experience Without Apprenticeship or Education: Without an apprenticeship or education, you’d need at least 3,000 hours (18 months) of supervised work experience within the past five years​​.
2. Examination
   • Submit an exam application with the required documentation and a $150 exam fee. The exams are administered by Prov Testing Services, and you need to score at least 70% to pass​.⁶ The Alabama HVAC contractor exam has 80 questions, and you’re given four hours to complete it. For the HVAC refrigeration exam, you’re given three hours to complete 60 questions. 
   • Make sure to prepare! Here are a few Pro tips:
     • Study in groups. 
     • Take part in hands-on projects at your HVAC apprentice job. 
     • Time yourself as you practice taking the exams.
     • Watch HVAC installation and repair videos.
3. Licensure
   • Once you pass the exam, you can apply for the license. Provide proof of a $15,000 performance bond, share your business information, and pay a $190 fee for active status (or $95 for inactive status if you don’t perform any work).⁷

Alabama HVAC Training Programs and Schools

• Bevill State Community College
• Central Alabama Community College
• J.F. Drake State Technical College
• Shelton State Community College

Types of HVAC Classes

• Basic Electricity for HVAC
• Gas and Electric Heating
• Air Conditioning Control Principles
• HVAC Systems Design
• Energy Management and Green Building Design
• Water Volume
• Electrical Heating
• Power and Resistance

Program Tuition Costs: Tuition for HVAC trade schools varies. Expect to pay between $4,000 and $10,000 to complete your HVAC certification courses. Since HVAC is a hands-on profession, courses are offered in a classroom setting.

Want more information?

HVAC licenses are issued by the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors. Visit their official website.