Licensing Guides
North Dakota HVAC License: How to Become an HVAC Contractor in North Dakota
HVAC, NDTable of Contents
What Is the Mean Wage for an HVAC Technician in North Dakota?
How Much Does It Cost to Get an HVAC License in North Dakota?
How Long Does it Take to Get an HVAC Contractors License in North Dakota?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an HVAC License in North Dakota
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed HVAC Work in North Dakota?
Learning a trade requires hard work and determination. You can’t rush the process, but the time you put into learning how to become 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 North Dakota employs 1,100 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 North Dakota, that growth rate is projected at 13%, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website.
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Contractors struggle to find skilled tradesmen like plumbers, electricians, and HVACR or mechanical professionals while the demand for them continues to grow. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, “Construction employment in North Dakota in July 2025 totaled 29,700, a decrease of 700 (-2.3%) from July 2024 and an increase of 1,600 or 6% 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 troubleshooting, replacing, and repairing existing systems. As more emphasis is placed on energy efficiency and reducing pollution, systems need to be retrofitted, upgraded or replaced entirely to comply with these new standards. Licensing requirements for HVAC contractors vary from state to state and, in some cases, such as in North Dakota, from locality to locality.
Licensing Requirements for HVAC Contractors in North Dakota
Is a state license required to perform HVAC work in North Dakota? No, North Dakota does not mandate licenses at the state level for HVAC apprentices, HVAC technicians or HVAC contractors. Many municipalities do have HVAC licensing requirements, so be sure to check with the jurisdictions where you will be working before getting started.
Types of HVAC Licenses in North Dakota
While there’s no statewide HVAC license, any general contractor, residential contractor, plumber, or electrician who works on projects valued at $4,000 or more must obtain a North Dakota State Contractor’s License through the North Dakota Secretary of State. North Dakota contractors can choose from four types of licenses, with each based on the project amount. Class A covers projects over $500,000 and requires a $450 fee. Class B covers projects up to $500,000 per job and requires a $300 fee. Class C covers projects up to $300,000 and requires a $225 fee. Class D covers projects up to $100,000 and requires a $100 fee.
State Contractor Licenses must be renewed every year and require a fee of $90 for Class A, $60 for Class B, $45 for Class C, and $30 for Class D.
To apply for a State Contractor’s License, candidates must submit an application and a certificate of liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance, pay a fee, and show proof of good standing with Workforce Safety & Insurance.
Some municipalities, including Fargo and Bismarck, require local HVAC licenses or HVAC certifications to work on HVAC systems for customers living in those areas.
Fargo
The City of Fargo Department of Inspections is responsible for issuing HVAC licenses. HVAC candidates can pursue four types of HVAC licenses, and each has different requirements and experience.
Journeyman Mechanical license — Required for any person who constructs, installs, alters, maintains, and repairs heating and air conditioning plants and combustion units and all fuel-consuming appliances while under the supervision of a master heating contractor.
Journeyman Fuel Gas license — Required for any person who installs, maintains and repairs gas-consuming appliances while under the supervision of a master gas installer.
Master Mechanical license — Required for any person or business that constructs, installs, alters, maintains, and repairs heating and air conditioning plants and combustion units and fuel-consuming appliances within the city of Fargo.
Master Gas Fuel license — Required for any person or business that installs, maintains and repairs gas-consuming appliances within the city.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Journeyman licenses
Submit an application.
Pay a $30 fee.
Show proof of at least three years of practical experience, including schooling, working in the trade, or a combination of the two.
Pass required exam, which requires a $40 fee.
Master licenses
Submit an application.
Pay a $125 fee.
Show proof of at least three years of journeyman experience and two years of practical experience, for a total of five years of experience.
Pass required exam, which includes a $125 fee.
Bismarck
The City of Bismarck requires mechanical licensing, issued by the City of Bismarck Community Development Department, Building Inspections Division, for anyone who undertakes or performs heating, ventilation or air conditioning (HVAC) work, any mechanical installation, alteration or repair. License types are:
HVAC Journeyman — Allows the license holder to perform heating, ventilation, and air conditioning work, including mechanical installations, alterations, and repairs, under the supervision of a master license holder.
HVAC Master — Allows the licensee to pull permits, supervise journeymen, and take full responsibility for HVAC installations, alterations, and repairs in the city.
REQUIREMENTS
Journeyman
Have a minimum of four years or 7,600 hours of verified work experience, or the educational equivalent of up to 3,800 hours and a minimum of two years of work experience.
Submit an application.
Sign an information waiver.
Pass the required exam.
Pay all applicable fees.
Master
Have a minimum of two years of verified work experience as a licensed Journeyman.
Submit an application.
Sign an information waiver.
Pass the required exam.
Pay all applicable fees.
Steps to Get an HVAC License in North Dakota
The steps to get an HVAC license in North Dakota vary depending on the locality. In general, they include:
Be at least 18 years of age and a high school graduate or GED equivalent.
Gain experience in an HVAC education program, apprenticeship, or a combination of the two.
Apply for, take, and pass exam for journey level license.
Gain work experience as a licensed journeyperson working under the supervision of a licensed master.
Apply for, take, and pass an exam for master license.
Obtain required insurance.
Work indefinitely for a licensed contractor or obtain a state contractor license.
Benefits of Getting an HVAC License in North Dakota
There are many benefits to getting your North Dakota HVACR/Mechanical license:
Most importantly, it is required by law in most North Dakota jurisdictions to be licensed to perform heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration work.
Trade licensure 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 North Dakota?
The annual mean wage for HVAC techs in North Dakota is $68,440, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, that salary can increase 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 North Dakota, those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $51,300
Intermediate (2-4 years): $62,400
Senior (4-7 years): $73,200
Supervisor (>7 years): $86,100
The meaning of a “mean” and “median salary” can be confusing. Here is the difference:
Mean 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 North Dakota?
How you get started will determine your upfront costs. If you start by getting some kind of college degree or certificate you’ll have tuition expenses. Apprenticeship program costs vary depending on the program you choose. Program fees cover course instruction, textbooks, and materials. Your employer or union typically will absorb these costs.
You’ll also have license and exam fees, which vary based on locality. In Fargo, there's a $30 application fee and $40 exam fee for a journeyman license and a $125 application fee and $125 exam fee for a master license.
In Bismarck, the license fee is $125 for the journeyman and master-level licenses.
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How to Get an HVAC License in North Dakota
An HVAC career path refers to the different positions you can advance to as your skills and experience in HVAC develop. The process varies based on locality in North Dakota, but generally includes:
APPRENTICESHIP/WORK EXPERIENCE: You will need to be at least 18 years old and have graduated from high school or earned a GED equivalent. Most localities have an experience requirement to become a licensed journeyman.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: Apply for your desired license type, paying all applicable fees.
TAKE LICENSING EXAM: Licensing exams are required at the journeyman and master levels in Fargo, Bismarck, and other jurisdictions throughout the state.
CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS: If after earning your master license you choose to apply to be a contractor, you will need to meet several additional requirements. Candidates must submit an application and a certificate of liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance, pay a fee, and show proof of good standing with Workforce Safety & Insurance.
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 License in North Dakota?
The time it takes to become an HVAC contractor depends on the locality. In Fargo, you need three years of experience to become a journeyman and then three years as a journeyman to qualify for a master license. In Bismark, it takes four years to become a journeyman. You must work as a journeyman for another two years before qualifying for a master license.
The great news is that as an apprentice, you begin earning a wage from the very beginning and that compensation goes up each year as you acquire more training and knowledge until you are fully licensed at the journeyperson level. Then it goes up again when you acquire your master license. As a licensed contractor you can start your own HVAC business, be your own boss, and grow your business as much as you want.
North Dakota HVAC Training Programs and Schools
If you want to build your knowledge before beginning as an apprentice, there are multiple options in North Dakota.
There are currently two main organizations that approve HVAC programs and schools nationwide: HVAC Excellence and the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA). There aren’t any schools accredited by either organization in North Dakota.
Niche provides a list of the best trade schools with HVAC and refrigeration engineering technician degrees in North Dakota.
Tuition: According to Community College Review, the average tuition at North Dakota colleges is approximately $4,431 per year for in-state students and $7,084 for out-of-state students.
Apprenticeship: You can apply for a union training program like the ones offered through Sheet Metal Workers International Association Local Union 10 or UA Local 300. Or you could choose a non-union training program through a trade organization like Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors Association of North Dakota. 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.
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 to have 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 North Dakota, check out our Ultimate Guide to HVAC Schools in North Dakota.
North Dakota HVAC Licensing Exam Details
Most cities proctor the State of North Dakota Reciprocity Exams for both Master and Journeyman HVAC licenses. That means you only need to pass the exam in one jurisdiction. However, you still need to obtain the proper licensing in each city you work. Exams are open book and must be completed in four hours. Fargo exams are administered on an individual basis. You can schedule one by calling 701-241-1561. In Bismarck, you will receive instructions for the exam after you submit an application.
How Can I Prepare for The HVAC License Exam in North Dakota?
The exams are based on of the 2021 code books:
2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC) Item: 3300S21
2021 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) Item: 3600S21
These can be purchased through the International Code Council or a local bookstore. Exams are open book.
Who Issues HVAC Licenses in North Dakota?
Licenses are issued by each jurisdiction. The City of Fargo Department of Inspections is responsible for issuing HVAC licenses in Fargo. The City of Bismarck requires mechanical licensing, issued by the City of Bismarck Community Development Department, Building Inspections Division,
Does My North Dakota HVAC License Work in Any Other State?
No. Since licenses are issued locally, there are no reciprocity agreements with other states.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an HVAC License in North Dakota?
Again, there are no reciprocity agreements with neighboring states. Out-of-state contractors will need to obtain their licenses locally.
HVAC Specific Requirements: EPA Certification
Throughout the country, including in North Dakota, 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 Technical 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 North Dakota
In Fargo, journeyman-licensed contractors must renew their licenses every three years for a fee of $100. Licensed master contractors must renew their licenses every year for a fee of $125. In Bismarck, journeymen must renew their licenses every year for a fee of $75, and master licensees must renew annually for a $125 license renewal fee.
Are There HVAC Scholarships in North Dakota?
Yes, there are several HVAC or trade school scholarships in North Dakota. They include:
In addition to this scholarship, HVAC students in North Dakota can explore financial aid opportunities by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Submitting the FAFSA gives you access to federal grants like the Pell Grant, subsidized student loans, and work-study programs—all of which can help cover tuition, tools, and other training costs. Many North Dakota community colleges and trade programs also use FAFSA data to award institutional aid or state-based grants.
How Can Someone Verify My HVAC License in North Dakota?
Local jurisdictions may offer contractor or HVAC license verifications, depending on their online system. The North Dakota Building Officials’ Association offers a list of contractors who have passed the journeyman and master exams in the state.
When Can an HVAC License Be Suspended in North Dakota?
A suspended HVAC professional’s license means the individual is temporarily prohibited from legally practicing their trade. In North Dakota, an HVAC license may be suspended or revoked for many reasons, depending on local laws. Common reasons include:
Violating contractor licensing regulations or city ordinance.
Allowing a license to be used by a person other than the license holder.
Obtaining a license by fraud or misrepresentation.
Hiring or subcontracting unlicensed subcontractors.
Failing to maintain license eligibility.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For specific information, refer to the laws of the local jurisdiction.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed HVAC Work in North Dakota?
Whether you need an HVAC license and related penalties depends on the requirements of the local jurisdiction. Common penalties for unlicensed HVAC work may include fines, stop-work orders, required permits after the fact, and potential denial of future license applications.
Continuing Education
There are no continuing education requirements in Fargo or Bismarck.
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.
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive HVAC business software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and achieve growth. Our award-winning, cloud-based platform is trusted by more than 100,000 contractors across the country.
Ready to learn more about what ServiceTitan can do for your business? Contact our team to schedule a demo today.
