Home/License Requirements/Tennessee
State Licensing Guide

How to Get an HVAC License
in Tennessee

Step-by-step guide to earning your heating and air conditioning license in Tennessee — exams, experience hours, EPA 608, fees, and where to apply.

License RequiredEPA 608 RequiredCE: 4 hrs

Key Takeaways

Tennessee requires a state HVAC / heating and air conditioning license (HVAC Contractor License), plus federal EPA Section 608 for refrigerant handling. Expect about 3 years of documented experience before the primary exam. Regulated by Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.

  • State HVAC license: Required
  • EPA 608 certification: Required (federal)
  • 1 license type: HVAC Contractor License
  • Experience typically required: ~3 years
  • Continuing education: 4 hours
  • Regulator: Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors
Quick facts for heating and air conditioning licensing in Tennessee
FactDetail
State HVAC licenseRequired
EPA 608Required (federal)
Primary credentialHVAC Contractor License
Experience (typical)~3 years
Continuing education4 hours
RegulatorTennessee Board for Licensing Contractors
Step-by-Step
How to Get a Heating and Air Conditioning License in Tennessee
Follow these steps in order. Always confirm final fees and forms with Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors before you apply.
01
Get EPA Section 608 certification
Complete federal EPA Section 608 (Universal preferred) before or during your Tennessee heating and air conditioning training. It is required to purchase and handle refrigerants.
02
Build ~3 years of documented experience
Tennessee typically expects about 3 years of documented HVAC / mechanical experience (or an approved apprenticeship equivalent) before the primary heating and air conditioning license exam.
Pass the state HVAC contractor exam
Demonstrate at least 3 years of experience
Provide proof of insurance
03
Pass the HVAC Contractor License exam
Apply through Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors, schedule the exam, and pass the written (and any trade) exam required for HVAC Contractor License.
HVAC Contractor License: exam required
04
Submit your heating and air conditioning license application
File with Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors, 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
Tennessee requires 4 hours of continuing education to keep your HVAC license current.
License Types
Tennessee HVAC Licenses
Tennessee offers 1 license type for HVAC professionals.
HVAC Contractor License
Required for HVAC contractors performing installations and service work.
Experience: 3 yearsExam required: Yes
Pass the state HVAC contractor exam
Demonstrate at least 3 years of experience
Provide proof of insurance
Regulatory Authority
Where to Apply
Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors
State-specific notes
Tennessee requires HVAC contractor licensing for projects valued over $25,000. Smaller projects may be regulated locally.
Visit official Tennessee licensing site →
FAQ
Heating & air conditioning license questions in Tennessee
Answers match the FAQ structured data on this page for search and AI assistants.
Do you need a license to do HVAC in Tennessee?
Yes. Tennessee requires a state HVAC / heating and air conditioning (mechanical) license (HVAC Contractor License). Federal EPA Section 608 certification is also required to handle refrigerants.
How do I get a heating and air conditioning license in Tennessee?
Earn EPA 608, complete the required training or experience (typically ~3 years), pass the state exam through Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors, and submit your application with any bonding/insurance paperwork.
How much does an HVAC license cost in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.
Is EPA 608 required in Tennessee?
Yes. EPA Section 608 is a federal requirement in every state, including Tennessee. Most employers expect Universal certification for heating and air conditioning refrigerant work.
How many continuing education hours does Tennessee require?
Tennessee requires 4 hours of continuing education to renew an HVAC license.
Can I get a heating and air conditioning license through an apprenticeship in Tennessee?
Yes. Registered apprenticeships in Tennessee commonly satisfy the experience requirement toward licensure while you earn wages. Confirm hour documentation with Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.
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 Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors before applying. Last reviewed: June 2026.
Related
Tennessee HVAC salary →Tennessee HVAC schools →Tennessee apprenticeships →EPA 608 certification guide →
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