Home/License Requirements
State-by-State Guide

How to Get an HVAC License
by State

37 of 51 jurisdictions require HVAC contractors to hold a license at the state or district level. EPA Section 608 certification is required nationwide under federal law. Select a jurisdiction below to view detailed requirements. Compare Florida HVAC schools, Texas HVAC schools, Virginia HVAC schools, and Pennsylvania HVAC schools.

37
License Required
14
No State License
51
Jurisdictions Tracked
EPA 608
Federal Req.
All Jurisdictions
Browse License Requirements
All 50 states plus the District of Columbia. Click any one to see detailed licensing requirements, exam information, experience needed, and the application process.

Alabama

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

License Types

  • HVAC Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC contractors performing installations and major repairs.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the Alabama HVAC contractor exam
    • Provide proof of general liability insurance
    • Submit a completed application to the State Licensing Board for General Contractors

Alabama requires HVAC contractors to be licensed. Journeyman-level technicians working under a licensed contractor do not need a separate state license.

Regulatory Body

Alabama State Licensing Board for General Contractors

Alaska

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

16 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • Mechanical Administrator Certificate

    Exam Required

    Required for anyone supervising HVAC installations.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the state mechanical administrator exam
    • Demonstrate relevant experience
    • Submit application to the Department of Labor and Workforce Development

Alaska requires a Mechanical Administrator certificate. Local jurisdictions may impose additional requirements.

Regulatory Body

Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development

Arizona

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

License Types

  • HVAC Contractor License (C-39)

    Exam Required

    Dual-license classification for air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration work.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the C-39 trade exam and business management exam
    • Provide proof of bonding and insurance
    • Demonstrate at least 4 years of trade experience

Arizona requires a C-39 contractor license for HVAC work. Technicians working under a licensed contractor are not separately licensed by the state.

Regulatory Body

Arizona Registrar of Contractors

Arkansas

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

8 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC installation and service technicians.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or equivalent experience
    • Pass the state journeyman exam

  • HVAC Master License

    Exam Required

    Required to operate an HVAC business or supervise journeymen.

    Experience: 6 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman license
    • Pass the state master HVAC exam
    • Demonstrate additional supervisory experience

Arkansas requires both journeyman and master HVAC licenses. Continuing education is required for license renewal.

Regulatory Body

Arkansas Department of Health – HVAC/R Licensing Board

California

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

License Types

  • C-20 HVAC Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Required for contractors performing warm-air heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning work.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the C-20 trade exam and law/business exam
    • Demonstrate at least 4 years of journeyman-level experience
    • Post a contractor bond and provide proof of insurance

California requires a C-20 license for HVAC contractors. Technicians working under a licensed contractor do not need an individual state license. Local permits are required for most installations.

Regulatory Body

Contractors State License Board (CSLB)

Colorado

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

Colorado does not require a state HVAC license. Some local jurisdictions such as Denver and Colorado Springs require mechanical permits and may require contractor registration.

Regulatory Body

Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA)

Connecticut

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

10 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License (S-1/S-2)

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians performing installations.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete a registered apprenticeship or equivalent training
    • Pass the state journeyman exam

  • HVAC Contractor License (S-1/SM-1)

    Exam Required

    Required to operate an HVAC contracting business.

    Experience: 6 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman license
    • Pass the contractor business exam
    • Provide proof of insurance and bonding

Connecticut requires HVAC technicians and contractors to be licensed. Both warm-air (S-1) and hydronic (S-2) classifications are available.

Regulatory Body

Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection

Delaware

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for technicians performing HVAC work.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or demonstrate equivalent experience
    • Pass the state journeyman exam

  • HVAC Master License

    Exam Required

    Required to supervise HVAC projects and pull permits.

    Experience: 6 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman license for at least 2 years
    • Pass the state master exam

Delaware requires HVAC journeyman and master licenses. Local jurisdictions may have additional permitting requirements.

Regulatory Body

Delaware Division of Professional Regulation

District of Columbia

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

License Types

  • Apprentice Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic

    Entry registration for anyone learning the trade. Registered without an examination, and valid only while working under the direct supervision of a licensed master or journeyman mechanic.

    • Be at least 18 years old
    • Hold a high school diploma or GED equivalent
    • Register with the Board of Industrial Trades and pay the application fee
    • Work only under the direct supervision of a licensed master or journeyman mechanic

  • Journeyman Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic

    Exam Required

    The working technician's license. Permits refrigeration and air conditioning work without direct supervision, but not the supervision of others or the pulling of permits in your own name.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete a four-year registered apprenticeship totaling roughly 8,000 hours, or document equivalent verified trade experience
    • Pass the journeyman refrigeration and air conditioning examination
    • Hold EPA Section 608 certification to handle refrigerants

  • Master Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic

    Exam Required

    The supervisory license, required to plan and direct installation, maintenance, alteration, and repair of refrigeration and air conditioning systems of any type.

    Experience: 5 years

    • Document five years of verified experience on systems greater than 25 compressor horsepower, attested in writing by a licensed master mechanic
    • Hold EPA Section 608 certification
    • Pass the master refrigeration and air conditioning examination, administered by PSI

  • Basic Business License (mechanical contractor)

    A business credential, not a trade credential. Required before a contracting business may operate or advertise HVAC services in the District, and held in addition to the individual trade license.

    • Obtain a Basic Business License from the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection
    • Employ or be a licensed master mechanic for the trade work performed
    • Maintain the insurance and bonding the license category requires

The District licenses refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics individually across three tiers — apprentice, journeyman, and master — which is stricter than either neighboring state, where the license typically attaches to the contracting business rather than the technician. Practically, that means you register as an apprentice before you start, not after. The master tier is the one with a hard equipment threshold: five years of verified experience on systems above 25 compressor horsepower, signed off in writing by a licensed master mechanic, so time spent only on residential split systems may not qualify you even after five years. A contracting business needs a Basic Business License on top of the individual trade license. DLCP does not publish a continuing-education requirement for this trade; confirm current requirements with the Board of Industrial Trades before you renew.

Regulatory Body

DC Board of Industrial Trades, Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP)

Florida

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

14 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • Class A HVAC Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Unlimited scope for air conditioning, refrigeration, heating, and ventilation work.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the state trade knowledge and business exams
    • Demonstrate at least 4 years of experience
    • Provide proof of insurance and financial responsibility

  • Class B HVAC Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Limited to HVAC systems of 25 tons cooling or 500,000 BTU heating or less.

    Experience: 3 years

    • Pass the state trade knowledge and business exams
    • Demonstrate at least 3 years of experience
    • Provide proof of insurance

Florida requires state HVAC contractor licensing with Class A (unlimited) and Class B (limited) tiers. Continuing education is required for each biennial renewal.

Regulatory Body

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)

Georgia

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

8 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • Conditioned Air Contractor License (Class I)

    Exam Required

    Unlimited HVAC contracting license for all system sizes.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the state conditioned air contractor exam
    • Demonstrate at least 4 years of experience
    • Provide proof of insurance

  • Conditioned Air Contractor License (Class II)

    Exam Required

    Limited to systems of 175,000 BTU cooling or 200,000 BTU heating or less.

    Experience: 2 years

    • Pass the state conditioned air contractor exam
    • Demonstrate at least 2 years of experience
    • Provide proof of insurance

Georgia requires HVAC contractor licensing at the state level. Both Class I (unlimited) and Class II (limited) licenses are available.

Regulatory Body

Georgia Construction Industry Licensing Board

Hawaii

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

License Types

  • Specialty Contractor License (C-16)

    Exam Required

    Required for refrigeration and air conditioning contracting work.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the C-16 trade exam
    • Demonstrate at least 4 years of experience
    • Provide proof of bonding and insurance

Hawaii requires a C-16 specialty contractor license for HVAC and refrigeration work.

Regulatory Body

Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs – Contractors License Board

Idaho

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

8 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians performing installations and repairs.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or equivalent experience
    • Pass the Idaho HVAC journeyman exam

  • HVAC Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Required to operate an HVAC business in Idaho.

    Experience: 6 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman license
    • Pass the contractor exam
    • Provide proof of insurance and bonding

Idaho requires HVAC journeyman and contractor licensing. The Division of Building Safety oversees examinations and renewals.

Regulatory Body

Idaho Division of Building Safety

Illinois

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

Illinois does not require a statewide HVAC license. However, Chicago and many other municipalities require local mechanical contractor licensing and permits.

Regulatory Body

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)

Indiana

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

Indiana does not require a statewide HVAC license. Local jurisdictions such as Indianapolis and Fort Wayne may require contractor registration or permits.

Regulatory Body

Indiana Professional Licensing Agency

Iowa

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

6 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • Mechanical Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC contractors in Iowa.

    Experience: 2 years

    • Pass the state mechanical contractor exam
    • Provide proof of bonding and insurance

Iowa licenses mechanical contractors through the Division of Labor. Expect the state exam, proof of experience (typically ~2 years), bonding, and insurance. Cities such as Des Moines and Cedar Rapids may add local mechanical permits on top of the state credential.

Regulatory Body

Iowa Division of Labor – Contractor Registration

Kansas

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

Kansas does not require a statewide HVAC license. Some cities such as Wichita and Kansas City require local mechanical permits and contractor registration.

Regulatory Body

Kansas Department of Labor

Kentucky

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

6 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for technicians performing HVAC installations.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or demonstrate equivalent experience
    • Pass the state HVAC journeyman exam

  • HVAC Master License

    Exam Required

    Required to supervise HVAC projects and operate a contracting business.

    Experience: 6 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman license
    • Pass the state master HVAC exam
    • Demonstrate additional experience beyond the journeyman level

Kentucky requires HVAC journeyman and master licenses. Continuing education is required for renewal.

Regulatory Body

Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction

Louisiana

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

License Types

  • Mechanical Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC contracting work over $50,000.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the state trade and business exams
    • Provide proof of financial responsibility and insurance
    • Demonstrate relevant trade experience

Louisiana requires licensing for mechanical contractors on projects over $50,000. Local jurisdictions may require additional licensing for smaller projects.

Regulatory Body

Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors

Maine

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

Maine has no statewide HVAC technician license, but oil burner and solid-fuel technicians must hold state licenses through the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation. Municipalities still issue mechanical permits. EPA Section 608 remains mandatory for any refrigerant work.

Regulatory Body

Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation

Maryland

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

16 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians performing installations and repairs.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or equivalent experience
    • Pass the state journeyman exam

  • HVAC Master License

    Exam Required

    Required to operate an HVAC business and supervise journeymen.

    Experience: 6 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman license for at least 2 years
    • Pass the state master HVAC exam

Maryland requires HVAC journeyman and master licenses. The Board of HVACR Contractors oversees licensing and continuing education.

Regulatory Body

Maryland Department of Labor – Board of HVACR Contractors

Massachusetts

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

15 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • Refrigeration Technician License

    Exam Required

    Required for technicians working on refrigeration and air conditioning systems.

    Experience: 3 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or equivalent training (typically 3 years)
    • Pass the Massachusetts refrigeration technician exam
    • Maintain EPA Section 608 certification for refrigerant handling

Massachusetts requires a refrigeration technician license for HVAC work that involves refrigerant systems. Sheet metal and ductwork often fall under separate trade licenses. Plan on ~3 years of documented experience or an approved apprenticeship, 15 hours of continuing education to renew, and EPA 608 before you handle refrigerants.

Regulatory Body

Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure

Michigan

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

6 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • Mechanical Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC contractors performing installations.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the state mechanical contractor exam
    • Demonstrate at least 4 years of experience
    • Provide proof of insurance

Michigan requires a mechanical contractor license for HVAC work. Local jurisdictions also require permits for installations.

Regulatory Body

Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)

Minnesota

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

16 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians performing installations and service work.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or demonstrate equivalent experience
    • Pass the state journeyman exam

  • HVAC Master License

    Exam Required

    Required to operate an HVAC business or supervise journeymen.

    Experience: 5 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman license for at least 1 year
    • Pass the state master HVAC exam

Minnesota requires HVAC journeyman and master licenses. Apprentices must be registered with the state.

Regulatory Body

Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry

Mississippi

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

License Types

  • HVAC Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC residential and commercial contracting.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the state HVAC contractor exam
    • Provide proof of bonding and insurance
    • Demonstrate relevant experience

Mississippi requires HVAC contractor licensing for projects above $50,000. Smaller projects may be regulated by local jurisdictions.

Regulatory Body

Mississippi State Board of Contractors

Missouri

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

Missouri does not require a statewide HVAC license. Many cities such as St. Louis, Kansas City, and Springfield require local mechanical contractor licenses and permits.

Regulatory Body

Missouri Division of Professional Registration

Montana

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

8 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians performing mechanical installations.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or equivalent experience
    • Pass the state HVAC exam

  • HVAC Master License

    Exam Required

    Required to supervise journeymen and operate an HVAC business.

    Experience: 6 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman license
    • Pass the master HVAC exam

Montana requires HVAC journeyman and master licenses under its mechanical licensing program.

Regulatory Body

Montana Department of Labor and Industry – Building Codes Bureau

Nebraska

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

8 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • Journeyman HVAC License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians in Nebraska.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or demonstrate equivalent experience
    • Pass the state HVAC journeyman exam

Nebraska requires HVAC journeyman licensing under the State Fire Marshal mechanical licensing program.

Regulatory Body

Nebraska State Fire Marshal – Mechanical Systems

Nevada

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

License Types

  • HVAC Contractor License (C-21)

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC contractors performing installations and service work.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the C-21 trade exam and business/law exam
    • Demonstrate at least 4 years of experience
    • Provide proof of bonding and insurance

Nevada requires a C-21 contractor license for HVAC work. Technicians working under a licensed contractor do not need an individual license.

Regulatory Body

Nevada State Contractors Board

New Hampshire

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

New Hampshire does not require a statewide HVAC license. Gas fitters must be licensed. Local jurisdictions may require permits for mechanical installations.

Regulatory Body

New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification

New Jersey

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

License Types

  • HVAC Contractor Registration

    Required for HVAC contractors performing work in New Jersey.

    Experience: 0 years

    • Register with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs
    • Provide proof of liability insurance
    • Pass a background check

New Jersey requires HVAC contractor registration rather than licensing. Local municipalities may require mechanical permits.

Regulatory Body

New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs

New Mexico

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

8 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • Journeyman Mechanical License (MM98)

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians performing installations and service work.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or document ~4 years of mechanical experience
    • Pass the New Mexico journeyman mechanical (MM98) exam
    • Hold current EPA Section 608 certification for refrigerant work

  • Mechanical Contractor License (GB98)

    Exam Required

    Required to operate an HVAC contracting business.

    Experience: 6 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman mechanical license (MM98)
    • Document additional experience toward the ~6-year contractor path
    • Pass the state contractor exam
    • Provide proof of bonding and insurance

New Mexico is one of the stricter states: technicians need a journeyman mechanical license (MM98), and running a business requires the GB98 contractor license. Expect roughly 4 years toward journeyman and about 6 toward contractor, plus 8 hours of continuing education to renew. Apply through the Construction Industries Division and keep EPA 608 current.

Regulatory Body

New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department – Construction Industries Division

New York

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

New York does not require a statewide HVAC license. New York City requires a Refrigerating System Operating Engineer license and an HVAC contractor license. Other municipalities may have their own requirements.

Regulatory Body

New York Department of State – Division of Licensing Services

North Carolina

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

8 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Contractor License (H-1, H-2, H-3)

    Exam Required

    Tiered licensing for heating contractors based on project value.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the state trade and business exams
    • Demonstrate relevant trade experience
    • Provide proof of insurance

North Carolina requires HVAC contractor licensing. H-1 is unlimited, H-2 is limited to $500,000, and H-3 is limited to $100,000 in project value.

Regulatory Body

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

North Dakota

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians in North Dakota.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or equivalent experience
    • Pass the state journeyman HVAC exam

North Dakota requires HVAC journeyman licensing. Contractors must also be registered with the Secretary of State.

Regulatory Body

North Dakota Secretary of State – Contractor Licensing

Ohio

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

Ohio does not require a statewide HVAC license. Local jurisdictions including Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati require mechanical contractor licenses and permits.

Regulatory Body

Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board

Oklahoma

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

8 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • Mechanical Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians performing installations.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or equivalent experience
    • Pass the state journeyman exam

  • Mechanical Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Required to operate an HVAC contracting business.

    Experience: 6 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman license
    • Pass the contractor exam
    • Provide proof of bonding and insurance

Oklahoma requires both journeyman and contractor licensing for mechanical/HVAC work.

Regulatory Body

Oklahoma Construction Industries Board

Oregon

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

16 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians performing installations and service work.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or equivalent experience
    • Pass the state HVAC journeyman exam

  • HVAC Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Required to operate an HVAC business in Oregon.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman or supervisory license
    • Register with the Construction Contractors Board
    • Provide proof of bonding and insurance

Oregon requires HVAC journeyman licensing and contractor registration. Continuing education is required for license renewal.

Regulatory Body

Oregon Building Codes Division

Pennsylvania

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

Pennsylvania does not require a statewide HVAC license. Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and many other municipalities require local mechanical contractor licenses and permits.

Regulatory Body

Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry

Rhode Island

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

6 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians performing installations.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or equivalent experience
    • Pass the state journeyman exam

  • HVAC Master License

    Exam Required

    Required to supervise journeymen and operate an HVAC business.

    Experience: 6 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman license
    • Pass the master HVAC exam

Rhode Island requires HVAC journeyman and master licenses. Contractors must also register with the CRLB.

Regulatory Body

Rhode Island Contractors Registration and Licensing Board

South Carolina

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

4 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • Mechanical Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC contractors performing installations and major repairs.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the state trade and business management exams
    • Demonstrate relevant trade experience
    • Provide proof of insurance

South Carolina requires a mechanical contractor license for HVAC work. The Contractors Licensing Board oversees all contractor licensing in the state.

Regulatory Body

South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation – Contractors Licensing Board

South Dakota

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

South Dakota does not require a statewide HVAC license. Some municipalities may require local contractor registration or mechanical permits.

Regulatory Body

South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation

Tennessee

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

4 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Contractor License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC contractors performing installations and service work.

    Experience: 3 years

    • Pass the state HVAC contractor exam
    • Demonstrate at least 3 years of experience
    • Provide proof of insurance

Tennessee requires HVAC contractor licensing for projects valued over $25,000. Smaller projects may be regulated locally.

Regulatory Body

Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors

Texas

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

8 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Technician Registration

    Required for all HVAC technicians performing installations or service work.

    Experience: 0 years

    • Register with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
    • Complete required training hours

  • HVAC Contractor License (Class A or Class B)

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC contractors. Class A is unlimited; Class B is limited to systems of 25 tons or less.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Pass the state HVAC contractor exam
    • Demonstrate at least 48 months of practical experience
    • Provide proof of insurance

Texas requires all HVAC technicians to register with TDLR. Contractors must hold a Class A (unlimited) or Class B (25 tons or less) license. Continuing education is required for renewal.

Regulatory Body

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)

Utah

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

6 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians performing installations.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or equivalent experience
    • Pass the state HVAC journeyman exam

  • HVAC Contractor License (S350)

    Exam Required

    Required to operate an HVAC business in Utah.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman license or demonstrate equivalent qualifications
    • Pass the state contractor exam
    • Provide proof of bonding and insurance

Utah requires both journeyman and contractor HVAC licensing. The S350 classification covers HVAC contracting.

Regulatory Body

Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL)

Vermont

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

Vermont does not require a statewide HVAC license. Plumbers and electricians must be licensed, but HVAC technicians are not separately regulated at the state level.

Regulatory Body

Vermont Office of Professional Regulation

Virginia

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

8 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Tradesman License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians performing installations and service work.

    Experience: 2 years

    • Pass the state HVAC tradesman exam
    • Demonstrate relevant training or experience

  • HVAC Master Tradesman License

    Exam Required

    Required to supervise tradesmen and operate a contracting business.

    Experience: 5 years

    • Hold a valid tradesman license
    • Pass the state master tradesman exam
    • Demonstrate additional supervisory experience

  • HVAC Contractor License (Class A/B/C)

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC contractors. Class depends on project value.

    Experience: 5 years

    • Have a master tradesman on staff or pass the contractor exam
    • Provide proof of bonding and insurance
    • Demonstrate financial responsibility

Virginia requires HVAC tradesman, master tradesman, and contractor licenses. Contractor classifications are based on project value thresholds.

Regulatory Body

Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR)

Washington

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

8 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Specialty Electrician License (06A)

    Exam Required

    Required for technicians who perform electrical work as part of HVAC installations.

    Experience: 2 years

    • Complete required training hours
    • Pass the state 06A specialty exam

  • General Contractor Registration

    Required for all HVAC contractors operating in Washington.

    Experience: 0 years

    • Register with the Department of Labor and Industries
    • Provide proof of bonding and insurance

Washington requires HVAC technicians who perform electrical connections to hold an 06A specialty electrician license. All contractors must register with L&I.

Regulatory Body

Washington Department of Labor and Industries

West Virginia

License Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

8 continuing education hours required per renewal period

License Types

  • HVAC Journeyman License

    Exam Required

    Required for HVAC technicians in West Virginia.

    Experience: 4 years

    • Complete an approved apprenticeship or demonstrate equivalent experience
    • Pass the state HVAC journeyman exam

  • HVAC Master License

    Exam Required

    Required to supervise HVAC work and operate a business.

    Experience: 6 years

    • Hold a valid journeyman license
    • Pass the master HVAC exam

West Virginia requires HVAC journeyman and master licensing.

Regulatory Body

West Virginia Division of Labor – Contractor Licensing Board

Wisconsin

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

Wisconsin does not require a statewide HVAC license. HVAC contractors must register with DSPS and obtain credentials for certain types of work. Local jurisdictions may require mechanical permits.

Regulatory Body

Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)

Wyoming

License Not Required

HVAC Licensing Requirements

EPA 608 RequiredApprenticeship AvailableContinuing Ed Required

Wyoming does not require a statewide HVAC license. Some municipalities may require local permits for mechanical work.

Regulatory Body

Wyoming Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety
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