Licensing Guides
Arkansas HVAC License: How to Become an HVAC Contractor in Arkansas
HVAC, AR
Table of Contents
How Long Does it Take to Get an HVAC Contractors License in Arkansas?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an HVAC License in Arkansas
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed HVAC Work in Arkansas?
Learning a trade requires hard work and determination. You can’t rush the process, but the time you put into learning how to be an HVACR technician or contractor can lead to a career that is long-lasting, lucrative, and fulfilling. There are 425,200 heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers nationwide, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and Arkansas employs 4,890 of them.
Employment is projected to grow 8% from 2024 to 2034 throughout the country, adding more than 40,000 of these skilled workers to the ranks. In Arkansas, that growth rate is expected to be higher — projected at 10% — according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website.
» Want to grow your HVAC business? Click here to get a demo.
According to the Associated General Contractors of America, “Construction employment in Arkansas in July 2025 totaled 65,200, a decrease of 1,800 (-3%) from July 2024 and an increase of 11,900 (22%) from February 2020.” So, if you get the training you need, you should have a variety of jobs to choose from when you’re ready.
A large part of what HVAC contractors and technicians do is replace and repair existing systems. As more emphasis is placed on energy efficiency and reducing pollution, systems need to be retrofitted, upgraded or replaced entirely to remain compliant with these new standards. Licensing requirements for HVAC contractors vary from state to state and, in some cases, from locality to locality. In the state of Arkansas, licensure is uniform statewide.
Licensing Requirements for HVAC Contractors in Arkansas
To work as an HVAC contractor in Arkansas, you must hold a state license. Entry-level HVAC technicians don’t need a license, but they must register with the state and work under the supervision of a licensed contractor.
Arkansas makes it easy to start a career in HVAC. The state does not require apprenticeships, specific education, or legal prerequisites to begin working as an HVACR technician. Instead, entry into the field depends on meeting employer expectations and securing federal EPA certification.
Once you’ve started working in the HVACR field, in order to become a licensed HVACR contractor in Arkansas, you must either complete at least two years of on-the-job training and experience as an HVACR technician or graduate from a board-approved HVACR training program. Approved programs require at least six months of hands-on work or six months in the field after graduation. With a state license, HVAC contractors can legally employ technicians, advertise services, and bid on projects.
The Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Licensing Board oversees licensing of HVACR contractors for the state.
Types of HVAC Licenses in Arkansas
What are the different types of HVAC licenses in Arkansas?
There are six types of licenses for HVACR contractors in Arkansas. All but Class A have specific limitations.
Class A: Entitles the holder to work on heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems without limitation to BTU/H (British Thermal Units per hour) or horsepower capabilities.
Class B: Entitles the licensee to perform work on air conditioning systems of no more than 15 tons cooling capacity, heating systems of 1 million BTUs/hour or less, and refrigeration systems of 15 horsepower or less.
Class C: Entitles the licensee, who is in the business of servicing and repairing heating, ventilation, air conditioning, or refrigeration equipment for the public to service, repair, or replace components of HVACR equipment and to perform HVACR work on air conditioning systems of no more than 15 tons and heating systems of 1 million BTUs/hour or less. A Class C license holder is not permitted to install any original HVACR equipment or replace any existing HVACR equipment.
Class D: Entitles the licensee to perform sheet metal work as it relates to ductwork for HVACR systems without regard to or limitation of horsepower of the system to which the duct connects. The licensee in this category is prohibited from selling, installing or servicing HVACR equipment and systems.
Class E: Entitles the licensee to perform refrigeration work without regard to or limitation of horsepower. The licensee in this category is prohibited from selling, installing, or servicing heating and air conditioning equipment used for the treatment of air for human comfort requirements.
Class L: Entitles the license holder to a “Lifetime” license to perform HVACR service and maintenance work on air conditioning systems of no more than 15 tons or 1 million BTU/H and refrigeration systems of 15 horsepower or less. A Lifetime license holder shall not install any original equipment or replace any existing HVACR equipment. Applicants for a Class “L” Lifetime license must be at least 65 years of age.
As a technician, you are expected to register with the department and work under a licensed contractor. Your employer will typically ensure you hold a current HVACR registration.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must register with the state as an HVACR technician.
Must work under the supervision of a licensed HVAC contractor.
Must obtain EPA Section 608 certification.
Pay the $25 registration fee.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
You must have two years of work experience as an HVAC professional. The board may substitute HVAC-related educational training for experience, provided that it is a board-approved program and educational transcripts are provided prior to board consideration; or
You must be currently licensed in another state with licensing laws substantially similar to those of the State of Arkansas.
You must pass a board-approved examination via Prov Exams and pay the $55 exam fee.
Pass a criminal background check.
Submit the license application.
Pay the licensing fee for your classification.
Steps to Get an HVAC License in Arkansas
Be at least 18 years of age and a high school graduate or GED equivalent.
Gain employment with an HVAC contractor and register as a technician. You can work indefinitely as a technician.
After obtaining two years of experience, you become eligible for an HVACR contractor license. You may be able to substitute classroom training for work experience.
You must pass a board-approved examination with Prov Exams and pay the $55 exam fee.
Submit to a criminal background check.
Submit the license application and pay the license fee to the The Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing, located in Little Rock.
Benefits of Getting an HVAC License in Arkansas
There are many benefits to getting your Arkansas HVACR license:
Most important, it is required by law in Arkansas to be licensed through the state to perform heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration work as a contractor.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill.
Only licensed HVAC contractors can: operate a business and advertise services, obtain commercial insurance, pull building permits and pass inspections, bid on public and government projects.
Having a license protects your company and customers.
A license gives you a competitive advantage in the job market.
It also increases your earning potential.
What Is the Mean Wage for an HVAC Technician in Arkansas?
The annual mean wage for HVAC mechanics and installers in Arkansas is $50,010, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, that salary increases, as you might expect, as you acquire more experience. An HVAC technician salary database, shared with ServiceTitan by Payscale.com, projects the median HVAC technician salary will increase nationally in 2025 by 3.44% for entry-level workers, 3.46% for intermediate level, 3.62% for senior level HVAC professionals, and 3.53% for supervisors. In Arkansas, those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $50,000
Intermediate (2-4 years): $60,800
Senior (4-7 years): $71,400
Supervisor (>7 years): $84,000
The meaning of a “mean wage” and “median salary” can be confusing. Here is the difference:
Mean wage tells you the mathematical average.
Median salary tells you the point at which 50% of workers make less and 50% make more, and is usually a better indicator of what most people actually earn.
Salaries can vary widely depending on the city where you work and other factors like education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. If you choose to start an HVAC business, this blog can give you an idea of what you can expect to make and what factors will influence that number.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Getting the most out of an HVAC technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan’s cloud-based, all-in-one HVAC software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician’s visit.
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes.
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive average tickets.
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an HVAC License in Arkansas?
The cost to get started as a technician in Arkansas is fairly low. After gaining employment, you only need to pay the $25 registration fee.
Once you have met the work experience requirements, you’ll need to pay both exam fees and license fees. The following fees apply to Arkansas HVAC licensing:
Technician: Registration fee: $25
Class A: License fee: $200 | Exam fee: $55 for written, $100 for online.
Class B: License fee: $150 | Exam fee: $55 for written, $100 for online.
Class C: License fee: $100 | Exam fee: $55 for written, $100 for online.
Class D: License fee: $150 | Exam fee: $55 for written, $100 for online.
Class E: License fee: $150 | Exam fee: $55 for written, $100 for online.
Class L: License fee: No charge (must be at least 65 years old).
How to Get an HVAC License in Arkansas
An HVAC career path refers to the different positions you can advance to as your skills and experience in HVAC develop. In Arkansas, becoming an HVAC professional is very straightforward.
REGISTRATION/WORK EXPERIENCE: You will need to be at least 18 years old and have graduated from high school or earned a GED equivalent. The state requires everyone who wants to join this profession to obtain employment with an HVAC contractor and register as a technician. The registration fee is $25.
You need to obtain a minimum of two years of work experience to become eligible for one of six contractor license classifications. During this time, your employer will require you to obtain the Environmental Protection Agency Section 608 HVAC Certification, which is also required for a contractor license.
The board may substitute HVAC-related educational training for experience, provided that it is a board-approved program and educational transcripts are provided prior to board consideration.
TAKE LICENSING EXAM: For all contractor license classifications, you must pass a licensing exam and pay an exam fee of $55 for an in-person written exam, or $100 for a computer-based exam. The exams cover general knowledge, systems and sizing, piping, and equipment. The candidate bulletin breaks it down for each license class. You must earn a 70% or higher on each test to pass. For in-person exams, you can find testing centers throughout the state, including in Little Rock, Fort Smith, Conway, and more.
Click here to register for an exam or find more info via the Prov Testing Candidate Bulletin for Arkansas.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: After passing an examination, complete the application for licensure. You can apply for a contractor license with the state board through the Your Arkansas.gov online portal. The license fees vary from $100 to $200, depending on the classification.
BACKGROUND CHECK: Every license requires the applicant to provide documentation of criminal convictions related to the practice of the profession and include a full explanation.
Check out our blog post to learn about the 11 Key HVAC Skills Every Technician Should Have. And, if you choose to pursue owning your own business, you’ll need to stay on top of the changing regulations.
How Long Does it Take to Get an HVAC Contractors License in Arkansas?
It will take a minimum of two years of work experience as a registered technician to become eligible for a contractor license in Arkansas. The great news is that as a technician, you begin earning a wage from the very beginning, and that compensation goes up each year as you acquire more training and knowledge. You can work indefinitely as a technician or obtain a contractor license and own your own business.
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Arkansas HVAC Training Programs and Schools
Since the state of Arkansas only requires HVAC professionals to begin their career journey as a technician, you don’t need to attend HVAC school. However, you can substitute classroom training for some work experience so long as the training is approved by the Board.
There are two main organizations that approve HVAC programs and schools nationwide: HVAC Excellence and the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA).
HVAC Excellence has accredited the following programs in Arkansas:
Arkansas State University – Beebe in Searcy
Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus in Ozark
There are no PAHRA-accredited programs in Arkansas.
Here's a great list of the best HVAC schools in Arkansas:
Niche: 2026 Best Colleges with HVAC and Refrigeration Engineering Technician Degrees in Arkansas
Tuition: Tuition at Arkansas Community Colleges is assessed based on residency and class load. Community College Review shows tuition at Arkansas community colleges on average is $2,994 per year for in-state students and $4,750 for out-of-state students.
Apprenticeship: There are many apprenticeships that will satisfy the licensing requirement in Arkansas. You can apply for a union training program like the ones offered through Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprenticeship of Arkansas, which offers an HVAC program in Little Rock. Or you could simply apply for one of the apprentice positions listed on ZipRecruiter or Indeed to see if an employer will sponsor you instead. Just remember that your apprenticeship needs to be recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Program Prerequisites: You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or a GED.
On-the-Job Experience: While on the job you will need good customer service skills, be detail-oriented, have some mechanical capability, and be physically fit because the job can include some heavy lifting and hours of walking, standing, and working in tight spaces.
For more detailed information about HVAC school options in Arkansas, check out our Ultimate Guide to HVAC Schools in Arkansas.
Arkansas HVAC Licensing Exam Details
The examination is administered by Prov with testing locations all over the state. You have the option to take the exam in person or via computer. The Prov Testing Candidate Bulletin for Arkansas provides more information about registration, exam fees, testing centers, and scheduling your appointment. A score of 70% or above is required to pass the exam, and all exams are open book.
The Class A exam is made up of 100 questions. You are given 4 hours to complete it. The subjects covered include:
General Knowledge
Systems & Sizing
Equipment
Piping
Refrigeration Systems
Law and Administration
Electrical
Maintenance
Plan Reading
Estimating & Math
Fuel Gas Systems
The Class B exam is made up of 50 questions. You are given 3 hours to complete it. The subjects covered include:
General Knowledge
Systems & Sizing
Equipment
Piping
Refrigeration Systems
Fuel Gas Systems
Electrical
Maintenance
Law and Administration
The Class C exam is made up of 50 questions. You are given 2 hours to complete it. The subjects covered include:
General Knowledge
Systems & Sizing
Equipment
Piping
Testing, Inspection, Maintenance
Law and Administration
The Class D exam is made up of 60 questions. You are given 3 hours to complete it. The subjects covered include:
Plan Reading
Estimating & Math
General Knowledge
Layout & Fabrication
Install HVAC
Air Properties & Distribution
Air Distribution Accessories
Chimneys, Flues & Exhaust
Fuel Gas Systems
Law and Administration
The Class E exam is made up of 60 questions. You are given 3 hours to complete it. The subjects covered include:
Plan Reading
Estimating & Math
General Knowledge
Systems & Sizing
Piping
Maintenance
Law and Administration
How Can I Prepare for the HVAC License Exam in Arkansas?
You will be provided with a list of reference books when you apply for your test. Prov also offers practice examinations in several exam categories. Practice examinations cost $25 each and may be ordered either by phone or online at provbookstore.com.
According to the Prov Testing Candidate Bulletin for Arkansas, the number of questions and time allowed for each Arkansas Contractor license exam varies.
Class A HVACR exam: 100 questions, 4 hours
Class B HVACR exam: 50 questions, 3 hours
Class C HVACR exam: 40 questions, 2 hours
Class D HVACR exam: 60 questions, 3 hours
Class E HVACR exam: 60 questions, 3 hours
Who Issues HVAC Licenses in Arkansas?
All HVAC licenses are issued by the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Licensing Board.
Does My Arkansas HVAC License Work in Any Other State?
Your Arkansas HVAC license does not automatically transfer to other states. Each state has its own licensing rules for HVAC contractors and technicians, so you can’t assume reciprocity unless a state specifically recognizes your Arkansas license.
However, some states will likely accept your license if the training is equal to or greater than training requirements in that state.
What are the Reciprocity Requirements for an HVAC License in Arkansas?
Arkansas does not have any reciprocity agreements with any other states at this time. Each application from an out-of-state contractor is handled on an individual basis, and reciprocity may be granted if your state’s requirements meet or exceed those in Arkansas.
HVAC Specific Requirements: EPA Certification
Throughout the country, including in Arkansas, federal-level EPA regulations under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act require that technicians who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere must be certified. EPA Section 608 HVAC Certification is required for any professional who conducts refrigerant line-pressure tests or handles or adds refrigerant to existing air conditioning systems.
Most training programs can direct you to how and where to get that certification, or your employer will require you to get it before handling refrigerant. You can also go to EPA.gov and key in 608 Certification in the search bar to find out which institutions in your state offer certification programs. All apprenticeships will include this preparation and testing.
Take Certification Exam: You must acquire your EPA Certification from an approved organization. A list of these organizations can be found on the EPA’s website. There are four types of EPA Certifications for Refrigerants. They allow for different levels of certification for different scopes of work.
Type I – for servicing small appliances containing five pounds of refrigerant or less.
Type II – for servicing high-pressure units that contain five pounds or more of refrigerant (including most small commercial and residential systems).
Type III – for servicing or disposing of low-pressure appliances.
Universal – for servicing all systems and appliances covered under Types I, II, and III. Generally more useful than targeting any one specific certification.
Core Exam
For all certifications, you must pass the “Core Section” of the EPA certification exam. It covers the following topics:
Ozone depletion
Clean Air Act and the Montreal Protocol
Section 608 regulations
Substitute refrigerants and oils
Refrigeration
The Three R’s (Recover, Recycle, Reclaim)
Recovery techniques
Dehydration evacuation
Safety
Shipping
National HVAC Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. North American Technician Excellence (NATE certification), ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers) certification, and other professional certifications are not required but can add to your marketability as a service provider and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
Other Requirements Unique to Arkansas
To keep your state-issued license current, Arkansas requires you to renew it every year. Licenses expire one year from the date issued. The license renewal fee is the same as the initial license fee.
Are There HVAC Scholarships in Arkansas?
Yes, there are HVACR scholarships in Arkansas. They include:
ASHRAE of Northwest Arkansas Donald and Richard Rheem Scholarship: Awards $1,000 to undergrads pursuing a Bachelor of Science in engineering and with an interest in the HVAC industry.
The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Educational Foundation: Awards scholarships between $1,500 and $10,000 for students enrolled in plumbing or HVAC studies at Arkansas State University.
North Arkansas Home Builders Association Scholarship: Awards a scholarship to full-time students enrolled in an HVAC program at North Arkansas College.
How Can Someone Verify My HVAC License in Arkansas?
Your HVAC license can be verified by potential clients or employees in Arkansas through the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing’s state contractors licensing database.
To verify a license:
Visit the license lookup website.
Click “Find a Licensed Contractor.”
Search by name, license number, or ID number.
When Can an HVAC License Be Suspended in Arkansas?
Suspending an HVAC license means that the license holder is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. Some of the common reasons that Arkansas HVAC licenses can be suspended are:
Fraud
Professional incompetence
Misleading or deceptive practices
Criminal convictions
Aiding unlicensed individuals
Failure to comply with regulations
Practicing on a lapsed license
Willful or repeated violations of regulations governing HVACR professionals
Licensees can also face disciplinary action if they fail to report changes in business or personal information to the board or fail to respond to an investigation or complaint.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Arkansas HVAC license regulations you can refer to the official Administrative Rules.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed HVAC Work in Arkansas?
Performing HVACR work in Arkansas without a license is illegal. According to the DLL, “The Licensing Board can assess a civil penalty of up to $250 per violation, and each day of a continuing violation can be treated as a separate violation.” Unlike many other states, Arkansas does not impose criminal penalties for unlicensed work.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Arkansas HVAC license regulations you can refer to the official Administrative Rules.
Continuing Education
You must complete four hours of continuing education every year before renewing your license.
According to the DLL, “Continuing education shall consist of classroom or other Board-approved instruction relating specifically to the construction, installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC/R systems. Two of the four hours shall be on the mechanical code as adopted by the Board. The remaining two hours may be on any other Board-approved instruction.”
Click here for a list of Board-approved providers.
Resources
You can stay up to date on all HVAC industry news several ways:
Check top HVAC blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends.
Listen to top HVAC podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
