HVAC License Requirements by State

Do you know your state’s HVAC license requirements? These requirements can vary significantly depending on your location and whether you're working as a technician or a contractor. Some states have statewide licensing rules, while others regulate HVAC work at the local level. A couple states offer reciprocity for out-of-state licenses , while others may not require a license at all.

In many cases, technicians and contractors face different requirements. Technicians may need to complete HVAC training programs, pass certification exams, or carry EPA Section 608 certification . Contractors often must meet additional criteria, such as liability insurance, trade and business exams, surety bonds, and higher fees.

This guide breaks down what you need to know in each state—whether you’re an apprentice looking to enter the field as an HVAC technician or aiming to become a licensed master HVAC contractor running your own business .

Alabama | Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors

Technicians

HVAC technicians in Alabama are required to hold a state license. To become licensed, applicants must submit a notarized application, provide proof of work experience, and hold an Environmental Protection Agency Section 608 certification to work with refrigerants. They must also pass the licensing exam administered by the Alabama HACR Board.

Contractors

HVAC contractors in Alabama must obtain a contractor license through the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors. To qualify, applicants need to show proof of experience, pass a trade exam, and register their business. They must also be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and provide proof of liability insurance. This license allows them to legally offer HVAC services in Alabama and ensures they meet state HVAC license requirements.

Alaska | Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing

Technicians

Alaska does not license HVAC technicians at the state level. However, technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification to work with refrigerants and are required to operate under the supervision of a licensed Mechanical Administrator.

Contractors

In Alaska, HVAC contractors must get licensed as Mechanical Administrators. To qualify, they need 4 to 6 years of experience, pass a state trade exam, and submit a notarized application.

Arizona | Arizona Registrar of Contractors

Technicians

Arizona does not require HVACR technicians to hold a state license. However, technicians must have EPA Section 608 certification to work with refrigerants and must be employed by a licensed HVAC contractor.

Contractors

To become an HVAC contractor in Arizona, applicants must apply through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. The application must include a designated “Qualifying Party”—an individual employed by the business who has at least four years of verifiable HVACR experience. This person is required to pass both a trade exam and the Arizona Statutes and Rules exam. Additional required documents include proof of experience, business registration, and background information.

Arkansas | Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing

Technicians

HVACR technicians in Arkansas must be licensed by the state. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a minimum of two years of work experience, hold EPA Section 608 certification, and pass the state HVACR licensing exam. A notarized application is also required as part of the process.

Contractors

To obtain an HVACR contractor license in Arkansas, applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a minimum of two years of experience, complete a notarized application, and pass the state contractor exam. Licenses are issued by the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing.

California | Contractors State License Board

Technicians

California does not require state licensing for HVACR technicians. However, technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification and work under a licensed contractor who holds a C-20 license.

Contractors

To work as an HVAC contractor in California, a C-20 Warm-Air Heating, Ventilating, and Air-Conditioning Contractor license is required. This license is issued by the Contractors State License Board. Applicants must have at least four years of experience in the HVAC trade, pass a trade exam, and complete a background check. They must also meet contractor license requirements such as registering the business and maintaining liability insurance.

Connecticut | Department of Consumer Protection

Technicians

Connecticut requires HVACR technicians to hold a D-2 Limited journeyperson license to perform work in air conditioning and refrigeration. To qualify, applicants must complete a registered apprenticeship program or show proof of equivalent experience and training. They must also pass a trade exam approved by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection and hold EPA Section 608 certification to handle refrigerants.

Contractors

To become an HVAC contractor in Connecticut, applicants must obtain a D-1 license. This requires completing a registered apprenticeship program or having equivalent experience, and passing both a trade exam and a business exam. Licenses are issued by the Department of Consumer Protection.

Delaware | Board of Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Examiners

Technicians

Delaware requires HVACR technicians to hold either a journeyperson or master HVACR license, depending on their experience. To qualify, applicants must complete a state-approved apprenticeship program. They are also required to pass the state HVACR licensing exam and get an EPA Section 608 certification to work with refrigerants.

Contractors

To operate as an HVAC contractor in Delaware, individuals must obtain a Master HVACR license through the Delaware Board of Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Examiners. Applicants must meet state licensing requirements, which include verifying relevant work experience, passing the HVACR trade exam, and submitting proof of liability insurance. In addition, they must register their business with the Delaware Division of Revenue. A Master HVACR license is required to legally operate an HVAC business in the state.

Florida | Department of Business & Professional Regulation

Technicians

Florida does not license HVACR technicians at the state level. However, technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification and work under a licensed HVAC contractor who holds a license.

Contractors

HVACR contractors in Florida must get a license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. There are two license types: Class A (unlimited capacity for air conditioning and refrigeration) and Class B (limited capacity). To qualify, applicants must be at least 18, have four years of HVAC experience, pass both the Trade Knowledge and Business & Finance exams, complete a background check, and show proof of financial stability and liability insurance.

Georgia | Georgia State Board of Conditioned Air Contractors

Technicians

Georgia does not require state licensing for HVAC technicians. However, technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification to work with refrigerants and must be employed by a licensed HVAC contractor who holds a Conditioned Air Contractor license.

Contractors

HVAC contractors in Georgia must hold a Conditioned Air Contractor license, issued by the State Construction Industry Licensing Board. To qualify, applicants must pass a trade exam, submit professional references, and verify at least five years of HVAC experience. They must also meet liability insurance and business license requirements.

Hawaii | Department of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing

Technicians

Hawaii does not require HVAC technicians to hold a state-level license. However, technicians who handle refrigerants must have EPA Section 608 certification. All HVAC work must be performed under the supervision of a licensed HVAC contractor.

Contractors

Contractors in Hawaii must obtain a contractor license under classification C-52 (Refrigeration) or C-40 (Air Conditioning) through the Hawaii Contractors License Board. To qualify, applicants must show at least four years of supervisory HVAC experience within the last ten years, pass both a trade exam and a business and law exam, and provide detailed financial statements. Meeting state HVAC license requirements is necessary to legally offer air conditioning and refrigeration services in Hawaii.

Idaho | Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses

Technicians

To work as an HVAC technician in Idaho, you must be licensed by the state. Applicants must complete a four-year apprenticeship program with 8,000 hours of supervised work and 576 hours of classroom instruction, or have 16,000 hours of equivalent work experience. They must also pass the journeyman HVAC exam and hold EPA Section 608 certification.

Contractors

HVACR contractors in Idaho must get a contractor license through the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses. To qualify, applicants need at least 2.5 years of experience as a licensed journeyman HVAC technician. They must pass the HVAC contractor exam, show proof of insurance, and submit a complete application. Meeting HVAC license requirements ensures they can legally perform heating and air conditioning work in the state.

Illinois

Technicians

Illinois does not issue state HVACR technician licenses. Technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification to work with refrigerants.

Contractors

Illinois does not offer a statewide HVAC contractor license. Instead, contractors must comply with local licensing requirements, which vary by city or county. Always check with the local authority before starting any heating and air conditioning work.

Indiana

Technicians

Indiana does not license HVACR technicians at the state level. EPA Section 608 certification is required, and local rules may include registration, fees, or exams.

Contractors

Indiana does not issue a statewide HVAC contractor license. Instead, HVAC contractors must follow local licensing rules, which vary depending on the city or county. This includes meeting local HVAC license requirements and providing proof of insurance or experience where required.

Iowa | Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing

Technicians

Iowa does not require a separate state license for HVAC technicians. However, technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification to work with refrigerants and are typically required to work under the supervision of a licensed contractor.

Contractors

Contractors in Iowa must obtain a contractor license through the Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board. To qualify, applicants must register as a contractor with Iowa Workforce Development, submit proof of insurance and workers’ compensation coverage, and pass the HVAC contractor exam—unless they already hold a Master HVACR license in Iowa.

Kansas

Technicians

Kansas does not require a state license for HVACR technicians. All licensing, registration, and exam requirements are handled at the local or county level. EPA Section 608 certification is required for work involving refrigerants.

Contractors

HVAC contractors in Kansas are not required to hold a state-issued license. Instead, HVAC contractor licenses are regulated and issued by local city or county authorities. Requirements such as experience, exams, insurance, and fees vary depending on the jurisdiction.

Kentucky | Public Protection Cabinet

Technicians

Kentucky requires state licensure for HVAC journeyman mechanics. Applicants must complete a two-year apprenticeship, hold EPA certification, and pass a state licensing exam. Licenses are issued by the Department of Housing, Buildings & Construction.

Contractors

HVAC professionals in Kentucky must obtain a contractor license through the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction to operate legally. Applicants are required to submit a notarized application, verify at least two years of HVAC experience, and pass a business and law exam.

Louisiana | LA State Licensing Board for Contractors

Technicians

Louisiana does not license HVACR technicians at the state level. Technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification and work under a state-licensed mechanical contractor. Some cities may require technician registration or local licensing, so it's important to check with local authorities.

Contractors

HVAC contractors must obtain a Mechanical Work license through the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. Applicants must pass both a trade exam and a business and law exam, and submit proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance.

Maine

Technicians

Maine does not license HVACR technicians at the state level. However, HVAC technicians must hold EPA certification to work legally with air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Depending on the location, additional local licensing or permits may be required to operate on HVAC systems.

Contractors

Maine does not require state-level HVACR technician or contractor licensing; instead, certain mechanical trades like refrigeration require licensure under state law, and general HVAC work is subject to local permits or registrations.

Maryland | Maryland Department of Labor

Technicians

Maryland requires HVACR technicians to hold a journeyman license to perform HVACR work. Applicants must complete an approved HVAC training program through a registered apprenticeship or have equivalent experience.

Contractors

Contractors must be licensed through the Maryland Board of HVACR Contractors to legally operate and offer services. To qualify for a contractor license, applicants must show proof of 3 to 5 years of experience working with heating and cooling systems and HVAC equipment, pass a state-approved trade exam, and provide proof of insurance.

Massachusetts | Office of Public Safety & Inspections (Refrigeration only)

Technicians

Massachusetts does not require general HVAC licensure, but technicians working on refrigeration units over 10 tons or using more than 10 pounds of refrigerant must hold a Refrigeration Technician license, earned by completing structured apprenticeship training combined with supervised work hours and EPA Section 608 certification.

Contractors

Massachusetts does not have a general state license requirement for all HVAC contractors. However, those working with refrigeration systems over 10 tons must hold a specialty contractor license known as a Refrigeration Contractor license. To qualify, applicants must provide proof of 2,000 hours of work as a Massachusetts Refrigeration Technician and show documentation of 100 hours of additional refrigeration training from an approved school.

Michigan | The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

Technicians

Michigan does not license HVACR technicians individually. Technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification and work under a licensed mechanical contractor.

Contractors

HVAC contractors in Michigan are licensed as mechanical contractors through the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. Applicants must select one or more specific classifications such as HVAC equipment, refrigeration, ductwork, or hydronic heating systems. To qualify, they must pass the relevant exams and have at least three years of experience in each chosen category.

Minnesota

Technicians

Minnesota does not license HVACR technicians at the state level. However, technicians must comply with local city or county licensing requirements to work on HVAC systems. EPA Section 608 certification is required to handle refrigerants.

Contractors

Minnesota does not issue a state-level HVAC contractor license unless the contractor performs work in two or more trades, such as HVAC and residential plumbing. In that case, a Residential Building Contractor license is required. Most HVAC business licensing is handled at the local level, with cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul setting their own rules for HVAC contractors and business registration.

Mississippi | Mississippi State Board of Contractors

Technicians

Mississippi doesn't license HVACR technicians at the state level, but EPA Section  608 is required and local requirements may apply.

Contractors

Mississippi requires a state-issued HVAC contractor license for any residential HVAC work and commercial HVAC projects over $50,000. These licenses are issued by the Mississippi State Board of Contractors. Applicants must pass both a trade exam and the Business & Law exam, and provide proof of experience, insurance, and financial stability. For HVAC work under $10,000, contractor registration and permits are handled by the local city or county.

Missouri | Missouri Division of Professional Registration

Technicians

Missouri does not license HVACR technicians at the state level. Technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification and follow any local licensing or registration rules.

Contractors

Missouri does not have a statewide HVAC contractor license. Instead, licensing is handled at the local level, and contractors must meet the specific requirements of the city or county where they work. However, contractors with at least 7,500 hours of mechanical work experience or a local mechanical license may apply for a statewide mechanical contractor license, which is valid across all jurisdictions in Missouri.

Montana

Technicians

Montana does not issue state licenses for HVACR technicians. EPA Section 608 certification is required, and local regulations may apply.

Contractors

Montana does not require a state-level HVAC contractor license. Instead, contractors must register with the Department of Labor and Industry using either an Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate or a Construction Contractor Registration, depending on whether they have employees, and must follow any additional local licensing requirements.

Nebraska | Department of Labor

Technicians

Nebraska does not issue a state license for HVACR technicians. However, technicians must have EPA Section 608 certification and may need to meet additional local licensing requirements.

Contractors

Nebraska does not issue a state HVAC contractor license. All contractors must register annually with the Nebraska Department of Labor and meet any local requirements, such as exams, insurance, and bonding, to legally work on HVAC systems and commercial refrigeration units.

Nevada | Nevada State Contractors Board

Technicians

Nevada does not license HVACR technicians at the state level. Technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification and work under a licensed C-21 HVAC contractor.

Contractors

In Nevada, HVAC contractors are required to obtain a C-21 license (Refrigeration and Air Conditioning) from the Nevada State Contractors Board. To qualify, applicants must have at least four years of relevant experience within the past ten years and must pass both a trade exam and a business and law exam.

New Hampshire

Technicians

New Hampshire does not license HVACR technicians at the state level. Technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification.

Contractors

New Hampshire does not require a statewide HVAC contractor license. Contractors must register their business with the Secretary of State, carry workers’ compensation insurance if they hire employees, and obtain local trade permits for HVAC work.

New Mexico | New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department

Technicians

New Mexico requires HVACR technicians to be licensed as journeymen under the MM-2 classification. Applicants must complete at least 4,000 hours of experience, pass a trade exam, and apply through the Construction Industries Division to earn their HVAC certification.

Contractors

New Mexico requires HVAC and mechanical contractors to apply through the Regulation and Licensing Department by showing proof of experience, passing both a trade exam and a business and law exam, and submitting required documents such as insurance and bonding.

New York

Technicians

New York does not license HVACR technicians at the state level. EPA Section 608 certification and local compliance are required.

Contractors

New York does not have a statewide HVACR contractor license, so contractors must obtain and comply with local licensing requirements.

North Carolina | State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors

Technicians

HVACR technicians in North Carolina must hold a state license. Applicants need verified experience, must pass a licensing exam, and maintain EPA Section 608 certification.

Contractors

North Carolina requires HVAC contractors to hold a state license, which includes 4,000 hours of experience and passing both technical and business and law exams.

North Dakota | Secretary of State

Technicians

North Dakota does not license HVACR technicians at the state level. However, technicians must have EPA Section 608 certification to work with refrigerants and may need to meet additional local licensing requirements depending on the city or county.

Contractors

In North Dakota, HVAC contractors must obtain a state contractor license for any job over $4,000. Applicants need to register their business, carry liability and workers’ compensation insurance, meet Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI) requirements, and pay fees based on their job classification. Local HVAC or mechanical permits may also be required.

Ohio | Department of Commerce

Technicians

Ohio requires all HVAC work to be performed under a licensed HVAC contractor. Technicians do not need a state-issued license but must hold EPA Section 608 certification and may be required to register locally depending on the jurisdiction.

Contractors

Ohio requires HVAC contractors to obtain a statewide license issued by the OCILB, which involves meeting a five‑year experience requirement, passing both technical and Business and Law exams, and securing $500,000 in liability insurance.

Oklahoma | Oklahoma Construction Industries Board

Technicians

Oklahoma requires HVAC technicians to be licensed as apprentices, journeymen, or contractors. Journeymen must have at least 3 years of experience, pass a state exam, and meet HVAC certification requirements.

Contractors

In Oklahoma, HVAC contractors must hold a Mechanical Contractor license issued by the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (CIB). To qualify, applicants must have at least four years of experience in the mechanical trade, pass both a mechanical trade exam and a business and law exam, and meet all insurance and bonding requirements. Licenses must be renewed annually, and contractors must display their license number on all company vehicles, advertisements, and job bids.

Oregon | Oregon Construction Contractors Board

Technicians

Oregon requires HVAC technicians to be licensed as Limited Maintenance Specialty Technicians or Limited Energy Technicians. Applicants must complete approved training, pass an exam, and meet state HVAC certification standards.

Contractors

Oregon requires HVAC contractors to hold a CCB license with residential and/or commercial endorsements, which involves completing pre‑license business and law training, passing a CCB exam, carrying liability insurance, and renewing every two years with continuing education.

Pennsylvania | Attorney General’s Office

Technicians

Pennsylvania does not issue a statewide HVAC license for technicians. However, HVAC technicians must obtain EPA Section 608 certification to handle refrigerants and may need to meet additional licensing or registration requirements set by local cities or counties.

Contractors

Pennsylvania does not require a state HVAC contractor license. HVAC contractors must register as Home Improvement Contractors if they do over $5,000 in work per year and must comply with local municipal licensing.

Rhode Island | Contractor’s Registration & Licensing Board

Technicians

HVACR technicians in Rhode Island are required to be licensed through the Contractor’s Registration and Licensing Board (CRLB). To qualify for a journeyperson license, applicants must complete a state-approved apprenticeship or equivalent experience, meet specific work-hour requirements, and pass a state-administered trade exam.

Contractors

Rhode Island requires HVAC contractors to register for any project over $500. Contractors must complete a short training course before registering, carry $500,000 in liability insurance, and renew their registration every two years by completing a brief refresher course.

South Carolina | Labor Licensing Regulation

Technicians

South Carolina requires HVAC technicians performing work over $5,000 to hold a mechanical contractor license. For smaller projects, technicians can work under a licensed contractor but must have EPA Section 608 certification.

Contractors

South Carolina requires HVAC contractors to hold a Mechanical Contractor license by documenting two years of trade experience, passing both a technical trade exam and the Business Management and Law exam, and submitting required bonds and fees.

South Dakota

Technicians

South Dakota does not issue HVACR technician licenses at the state level. However, technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification to handle refrigerants legally. Local city or county jurisdictions may have additional licensing or registration requirements, depending on the location of work.

Contractors

South Dakota does not require a statewide HVAC contractor license. Contractors must check and comply with local licensing regulations.

Tennessee | Department of Commerce & Insurance

Technicians

Tennessee does not issue individual state licenses for HVACR technicians. Instead, technicians must work under a licensed mechanical contractor who holds the appropriate credential issued by the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors. To legally handle refrigerants, technicians must also earn EPA Section 608 certification.

Contractors

Tennessee requires HVAC contractors to hold a state license for projects over $25,000. To qualify, applicants must be at least 18 years old, have three to five years of relevant HVAC experience, pass both the HVAC technical trade exam and the Business and Law exam, and provide proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation if they have employees.

Texas | Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation

Technicians

HVAC technicians in Texas must register with the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation as either Registered or Certified Technicians. Registered Technicians in Texas must be 16 or older, register with TDLR for $20, pass a background check, and work under a licensed contractor. Certified Technicians must complete a TDLR-approved HVAC training program and pass a state exam.

Contractors

HVAC contractors must be licensed through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). To obtain a license, applicants must meet experience requirements, pass both the trade and business/law exams, and carry required liability insurance. Texas offers two license types: Class A (no capacity limit) and Class B (up to 25 tons cooling/1.5 million BTU heating).

Utah | Utah Commerce, Division of Professional Licensing

Technicians

HVAC technicians in Utah must be licensed as Journeyman HVAC through the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). Applicants need to complete a 4-year apprenticeship or equivalent experience, pass a trade exam, and hold EPA Section 608 certification.

Contractors

HVAC contractors must obtain a specialty contractor license (S350 classification) from the Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). Applicants must complete a 25-hour pre-licensure course, provide proof of general liability insurance, and register their business with the state. If the applicant has employees, they must also carry workers’ compensation insurance and register for state tax withholding and unemployment insurance.

Vermont

Technicians

Vermont does not issue HVACR technician licenses at the state level. However, technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification to legally handle refrigerants. In addition, they must comply with local requirements, which may include registration, permits, or additional qualifications depending on the city or county.

Contractors

Vermont does not require a statewide HVAC contractor license. However, residential contractors working on projects over $10,000 must register with the Office of Professional Regulation.

Virginia | Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation

Technicians

HVAC technicians in Virginia must be licensed as either Journeymen or Master Tradesmen through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). To qualify, applicants must complete a registered apprenticeship, meet state-defined experience requirements, and pass a state licensing exam. EPA Section 608 certification is also required to work with refrigerants.

Contractors

HVAC contractors must obtain a state license from the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. Applicants must designate a Qualified Individual with at least 2 to 5 years of experience, depending on the license class (A, B, or C), and complete an 8-hour pre-license education course. Class A and B licenses also require a designated employee to pass the required exams. Contractors must apply under the HVAC classification (HVA), which covers installation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC systems.

Washington | The Department of Labor & Industries

Technicians

HVAC technicians in Washington must be licensed through the state. Applicants typically need 4,000 hours of supervised experience, pass a trade exam, and hold EPA Section 608 certification to work with refrigerants.

Contractors

HVAC contractors in Washington must register as either a general or specialty contractor with the Department of Labor & Industries. Most HVAC professionals register as specialty contractors since they perform work in a specific trade. To register, applicants must have a UBI number, carry general liability insurance with a minimum combined limit of $250,000, and submit a notarized application.

West Virginia | Division of Labor

Technicians

HVAC technicians in West Virginia must be licensed through the Division of Labor. To qualify, technicians need at least two years of experience, must pass a trade exam, and hold EPA Section 608 certification from the Environmental Protection Agency.

Contractors

HVAC contractors must be licensed through the West Virginia Division of Labor. To qualify, the business must employ a certified HVAC Technician with at least 2,000 hours of experience who has passed the state exam. A Business and Law exam is also required. Contractor licenses are required for residential projects over $5,000 and commercial projects over $25,000.

Wisconsin | Department of Safety and Professional Services

Technicians

Wisconsin does not issue a statewide HVAC license for technicians. However, HVAC technicians must obtain EPA Section 608 certification to handle refrigerants and may need to meet additional local requirements based on the jurisdiction where they work.

Contractors

HVAC contractors in Wisconsin must register with the Department of Safety and Professional Services to legally perform HVAC work. While registration is required for businesses, the state also offers an optional HVAC Qualifier certification for individuals, which requires four years of experience or education and passing a state exam. Contractors who handle refrigerants must also hold EPA Section 608 certification.

Wyoming

Technicians

Wyoming does not issue a state-level hvac license for technicians. HVAC technicians must hold EPA Section 608 certification and follow local licensing rules, which can vary depending on the city or county.

Contractors

Wyoming does not have a statewide HVAC contractor license. Instead, HVAC contractor requirements vary by city or county.

FAQ Section | HVAC Certification & Career Path

Is a certificate in HVAC worth it?

Yes, an HVAC certificate is worth it if you're pursuing a career in the field. It demonstrates core knowledge, increases employability, and is often required to qualify for state or local licensure or advanced certifications like EPA Section 608.

How much does it cost to get HVAC certified?

Costs vary by state and program. On average, trade school or certification programs range from $1,500 to $15,000, while licensing exams and EPA certification can add $50–$500. Some apprenticeships may offset costs with paid work experience.

Is HVAC tech school hard?

HVAC school can be challenging but manageable. It combines hands-on training with technical instruction in electrical systems, refrigeration, safety, and regulations.

How to get a heating and air conditioning license

Requirements vary by state. Typically, you must complete training, gain verified work experience, pass a trade exam, and obtain EPA Section 608 certification. Many states also require liability insurance and a business and law exam for contractors.

How long does it take to get HVAC certified?

It depends on where you’re located and the level of certification you’re aiming for. Completing an HVAC apprenticeship can take 6 months to 2 years, while becoming a licensed journeyman or master HVAC technician may take 3 to 5 years through additional training and experience, depending on your state’s requirements.

How to Manage Certified HVAC Teams

Navigating HVAC license requirements across the U.S. can be complex, especially with varying rules at the state and local levels. Whether you’re an aspiring technician, a seasoned contractor, or managing a growing HVAC business, staying compliant is essential to your success.

FieldPulse takes the stress out of managing HVAC professionals with tools that streamline scheduling, performance tracking, and customer management—all in one platform.

Ready to simplify your operations and grow your HVAC business? Let FieldPulse help you manage certified HVAC contractors and technicians with one easy-to-use solution. Get in touch today to learn more.