HVAC contractor requirements vary by state, each having their own licensing, bonding and insurance requirements for HVAC technicians and contractors. Let’s take a closer look at how to get your HVAC contractor license, the education you’ll need, the different types of licenses available, and what to do about insurance.
HVAC Contractor Requirements
While the specific experience requirements, licensing and regulations might vary from state to state, there are some similarities. At minimum, HVAC contractor requirements generally include:
- Proving your education
- Getting a background check
- Paying an application fee
- Passing a state HVAC contractor license exam
In many states, proving your education involves technical school coursework on refrigeration systems or HVAC classes at a community college, followed by an apprenticeship so you can get experience in the field.
Under the Refrigerant Recycling Rule in the Clean Air Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also requires a Section 608 Technician Certification for those in the HVAC industry who maintain, service or build systems that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere, such as air conditioning systems.
Once you’ve gained enough experience and passed a licensing exam with your state licensing board, you will then be able to work under your own supervision and licensing as an HVAC contractor.
Different HVAC Contractor License Requirements
While most states require an HVAC license to work on heating and cooling systems, licensing is not required in the following states:
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Maine
- Missouri
- New Hampshire
- New York
- South Dakota
- Vermont
- Wyoming
Even if your state doesn’t require an HVAC license, you’ll still need the EPA certification mentioned above.
While HVAC contractor requirements may seem burdensome for those states requiring an HVAC contractor license exam, this licensing is one way you are able to differentiate yourself from your competition, especially against those who do not possess such licenses.
Additionally, you may find yourself in need of an HVAC contractor license in order to bid on a job, or to meet HVAC contractor requirements of your local government, labor union or trade group. In general, HVAC contractor license requirements include the following:
- 18 or older with a clear criminal record and no felonies
- A high school diploma or GED, or a bachelor’s degree for certain HVAC contractor licenses
- A record of classroom and on-the-job training with a recognized HVAC training program while working under a licensed HVAC contractor
For a detailed look at HVAC contractor license requirements by state, click here.
HVAC Contractor Requirements: Bonds and Insurance Coverage
Similar to HVAC contractor license requirements, states have different HVAC contractor requirements for insurance. Additionally, local governments may have their own HVAC contractor requirements for insurance coverage and policies. You will most likely need at least the following insurance policies:
General Liability
This insurance provides financial protection against common business risks, such as customer injuries and customer property damage.
Workers’ Compensation
Most states require businesses with one or more employees to obtain workers’ compensation insurance, which covers employees’ medical costs and lost wages due to work-related illnesses and accidents.
Surety or Performance Bond
You may also have to secure a surety bond or performance bond to obtain your license or bid on contracts, both able to pay a client if you fail to deliver on a contract.
Commercial Auto
If your business owns a vehicle, most states require you to have commercial auto insurance, which covers your legal bills, medical expenses and property damage if your work vehicle is in an accident.
Tools & Equipment
Many HVAC contractors choose to purchase this insurance to cover the repair or replacement of tools and equipment if they’re lost, stolen, or damaged.
Business Owner’s Policy (BOP)
This policy bundles general liability insurance with commercial property insurance, typically costing less than if the policies were bought separately.
Cyber Liability
HVAC businesses that handle credit card information use cyber liability insurance to cover any expenses from a cyberattack, such as customer notification, credit monitoring, and legal fees.
Since HVAC contractor license requirements and HVAC contractor license exams tend to vary by state, we recommend being thorough when checking the HVAC contractor requirements in the state or states you’ll be conducting business.
