Key Takeaways

Michigan requires a state HVAC / heating and air conditioning license (Mechanical Contractor License), plus federal EPA Section 608 for refrigerant handling. Expect about 4 years of documented experience before the primary exam. Regulated by Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).

  • State HVAC license: Required
  • EPA 608 certification: Required (federal)
  • 1 license type: Mechanical Contractor License
  • Experience typically required: ~4 years
  • Continuing education: 6 hours
  • Regulator: Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)
Quick facts for heating and air conditioning licensing in Michigan
FactDetail
State HVAC licenseRequired
EPA 608Required (federal)
Primary credentialMechanical Contractor License
Experience (typical)~4 years
Continuing education6 hours
RegulatorMichigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)
How to Get a Heating and Air Conditioning License in Michigan
Follow these steps in order. Always confirm final fees and forms with Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) before you apply.
01
Get EPA Section 608 certification
Complete federal EPA Section 608 (Universal preferred) before or during your Michigan heating and air conditioning training. It is required to purchase and handle refrigerants.
02
Build ~4 years of documented experience
Michigan typically expects about 4 years of documented HVAC / mechanical experience (or an approved apprenticeship equivalent) before the primary heating and air conditioning license exam.
Pass the state mechanical contractor exam
Demonstrate at least 4 years of experience
Provide proof of insurance
03
Pass the Mechanical Contractor License exam
Apply through Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), schedule the exam, and pass the written (and any trade) exam required for Mechanical Contractor License.
Mechanical Contractor License: exam required
04
Submit your heating and air conditioning license application
File with Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), provide proof of experience/training, insurance/bonding if required, and pay application fees. Confirm current forms on the official site.
05
Complete continuing education to renew
Michigan requires 6 hours of continuing education to keep your HVAC license current.
Michigan HVAC Licenses
Michigan offers 1 license type for HVAC professionals.
Mechanical Contractor License
Required for HVAC contractors performing installations.
Experience: 4 yearsExam required: Yes
Pass the state mechanical contractor exam
Demonstrate at least 4 years of experience
Provide proof of insurance
Where to Apply
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)
State-specific notes
Michigan requires a mechanical contractor license for HVAC work. Local jurisdictions also require permits for installations.
Visit official Michigan licensing site →
Heating & air conditioning license questions in Michigan
Answers match the FAQ structured data on this page for search and AI assistants.
Do you need a license to do HVAC in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan requires a state HVAC / heating and air conditioning (mechanical) license (Mechanical Contractor License). Federal EPA Section 608 certification is also required to handle refrigerants.
How do I get a heating and air conditioning license in Michigan?
Earn EPA 608, complete the required training or experience (typically ~4 years), pass the state exam through Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), and submit your application with any bonding/insurance paperwork.
How much does an HVAC license cost in Michigan?
State filing and exam fees vary by license class. Budget for application/exam fees plus EPA 608 testing and any required training. Confirm current amounts with Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
Is EPA 608 required in Michigan?
Yes. EPA Section 608 is a federal requirement in every state, including Michigan. Most employers expect Universal certification for heating and air conditioning refrigerant work.
How many continuing education hours does Michigan require?
Michigan requires 6 hours of continuing education to renew an HVAC license.
Can I get a heating and air conditioning license through an apprenticeship in Michigan?
Yes. Registered apprenticeships in Michigan commonly satisfy the experience requirement toward licensure while you earn wages. Confirm hour documentation with Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
Data source: Licensing requirements sourced from official state regulatory body publications and verified against ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) state licensing guides. EPA Section 608 requirements per 40 CFR Part 82. Fee bands are typical published ranges — confirm current amounts with Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) before applying. Last reviewed: June 2026.
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