Licensing Guides
Texas HVAC License: How to Become an HVAC Contractor in Texas
HVAC, TXTable of Contents
How Long Does it Take to Get an HVAC Contractors License in Texas?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an HVAC License in Texas
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 Texas employs 32,070 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 Texas, that growth rate is projected at 17%, 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 Texas in July 2025 totaled 876,700, an increase of 27,000 (3.2%) from July 2024 and an increase of 95,600 or 12% from February 2020.” So, if you get the training you need, you should have a variety of jobs to choose from.
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 comply with these new standards. Licensing requirements for HVAC contractors vary from state to state and, in some cases, from locality to locality. Texas has a statewide license/certification requirement.
Licensing Requirements for HVAC Contractors in Texas
Is a license required for HVAC Contractors in Texas? Yes.
To perform heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration work in the state of Texas, you must either be a licensed contractor or a registered or certified technician working under a licensed contractor.
The Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation issues and renews all Texas HVAC contractor licenses in the state.
Types of HVAC Licenses in Texas
What are the different types of HVAC/Mechanical licenses in Texas?
There are two Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor license types:
Class A: Allows you to work on any size unit.
Class B: Allows you to work on cooling systems of 25 tons and under and heating systems of 1.5 million BTUs/hour and under.
There are also three endorsements available to add to an Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor License. Each license may have only one endorsement.
Environmental Air Conditioning: Includes treating air to control temperature, humidity, cleanliness, ventilation, and circulation to meet human comfort requirements.
Commercial Refrigeration: Includes the use of mechanical or absorption equipment to control temperature or humidity to satisfy the intended use of a specific space. Limited to coolers, freezers, ice machines, and equipment that provides temperature and humidity controls.
Process Cooling or Heating: Includes controlling temperature, humidity, or cleanliness solely for production requirements or the proper operation of equipment. Limited to coolers, freezers, ice machines, and equipment that provides temperature and humidity controls.
In addition to licensing, there’s a technician registration and technician certification:
Technician registration: Any person who assists a licensed air conditioning and refrigeration contractor in performing air conditioning and refrigeration maintenance or repair work must register as a technician.
Technician certification: Certified Technician is a voluntary qualification that exceeds the standards of Registered Technician designation. Only persons who have obtained the certified technician designation may call themselves certified technicians.
There are different requirements for each level of licensure.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Registered Technician:
You must be at least 16 years old.
Submit an application with a $20 registration fee.
Complete a criminal history questionnaire if you have any felonies or misdemeanors outside of traffic offenses.
Certified Technician
You must be at least 18 years old.
Meet experience requirement of two years of air conditioning and refrigeration-related work under the supervision of a licensed air conditioning and refrigeration contractor.
Complete a department-approved certification program consisting of 2,000 hours of combined instruction and practical experience.
Submit an application and a $50 TDLR license fee.
Complete a criminal history questionnaire if you have any felonies or misdemeanors outside of traffic offenses.
Pass exam.
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor license
You must be at least 18 years old.
Meet one of the following experience requirements:
Four years of practical experience in air conditioning and refrigeration-related work under the supervision of a licensed air conditioning and refrigeration contractor in the past six years
One year with a technician certificate and three years of practical experience in air conditioning and refrigeration-related work under the supervision of a licensed air conditioning and refrigeration contractor in the past four years
Submit license application and $115 fee.
Complete a criminal history questionnaire if you have any felonies or misdemeanors outside of traffic offenses.
Pass exam.
Obtain general liability insurance in the amount that corresponds with your license type.
Steps to Get an HVAC License in Texas
You must be at least 16 years of age.
Register with the state as a technician working for a contractor.
Get two years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed contractor.
Get the optional certification and gain three years of experience, or obtain four years of work experience.
Apply for a license.
Pass contractor exam
Benefits of Getting an HVAC License in Texas
There are many benefits to getting your Texas HVACR/Mechanical license:
Most importantly, it is required by law in Texas to be licensed or registered through the state to perform heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration work at every level, beginning as an apprentice.
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 Texas?
The annual mean wage for HVAC mechanics and installers in Texas is $58,120, 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 Texas, those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $53,900
Intermediate (2-4 years): $65,500
Senior (4-7 years): $76,900
Supervisor (>7 years): $90,400
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 Texas?
Anyone working under a licensed contractor in Texas as an A/C and Refrigeration technician must register with the state by submitting an online application and paying a $20 fee.
After gaining 24 months of jobsite experience under a licensed contractor's supervision, Texas HVAC techs can opt to become a Certified ACR Technician by completing a department-approved 2,000-hour certification program and paying the $50 application fee. There’s also a $60 exam fee.
The cost of an air conditioning and refrigeration license in Texas is $115. You must also pay for your exam based on the license type. Class A exams are $75, and Class B exams are $60.
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How to Get an HVAC License in Texas
An HVAC career path refers to the different positions you can advance to as your skills and experience in HVAC develop. In Texas, becoming an HVAC/Mechanical professional isn’t fast, but it’s very straightforward.
REGISTER WITH STATE: The Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation requires anyone working under a licensed contractor in Texas as an A/C and Refrigeration technician to register with the state by submitting an online application and paying a $20 registration fee.
GET CERTIFICATION: After working on a jobsite for two years under a licensed contractor's supervision, Texas HVAC techs can opt to become a Certified ACR Technician by completing a 2,000-hour certification program and paying a $50 application fee. Many institutions offer Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Certification training programs. However, individuals seeking to obtain a Certified Technician license this way should verify it is approved by TDLR before enrolling in a program.
WORK EXPERIENCE: With a certification, you need three years of experience to become a contractor. Those individuals not interested in becoming a Certified ACR Technician must complete four years of experience under the supervision of a licensed contractor before applying for their own contractor’s license.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: Once you’ve fulfilled the work experience requirements, HVAC technicians may apply for a Texas ACR Contractor license. You must be at least 18 years old to apply.
TAKE LICENSING EXAM: The license class and endorsements you choose will determine the type of work you can perform, the licensing exam that you will take, and the insurance coverage that you must maintain.
PROVIDE PROOF OF INSURANCE: Must maintain commercial general liability insurance while your license is active and submit a certificate of insurance once you pass the licensing exam. The minimum insurance coverage required is based on the license class.
*If applying for both Class A and Class B license, you will receive a single document with two license numbers. Both licenses must have the same business affiliation and addresses.
How Long Does it Take to Get an HVAC Contractors License in Texas?
It will take a minimum of four years to qualify to take your ACR exam in Texas. However, you can be working as a registered technician under a licensed contractor — and earning money — the whole time.
Compensation goes up each year as you acquire more training and knowledge until you are fully licensed. As a licensed contractor you can start your own HVAC business, be your own boss, and grow your business as much as you want.
Texas HVAC Training Programs and Schools
Since the state of Texas requires HVAC professionals to begin their career journey as a registered technician, you most likely will not choose to get a postsecondary degree. However, if you want to build your knowledge before beginning as an apprentice, there are multiple options available.
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). Currently, HVAC Excellence has accredited three programs in Texas, and PAHRA has accredited one.
HVAC Excellence-accredited programs
PAHRA-accredited programs
Niche provides a list of the best trade schools with HVAC and refrigeration engineering technician degrees in Texas.
Tuition: According to Community College Review, the average tuition at Texas community colleges is approximately $3,764 per year for in-state students and $6,054 for out-of-state students.
Apprenticeship: There are all different kinds of apprenticeships that will satisfy the licensing requirement in Texas. You can apply for a union training program like the ones offered through UA Local 100 or UA Local 146.
Or you could choose a non-union training program through a trade organization like Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors Association of Texas. 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 Texas, check out our Ultimate Guide to HVAC Schools in Texas.
Texas HVAC Mechanical Licensing Exam Details
Exams for certification and licensure are issued by PSI. Click this link to learn more about registration, exam fees, testing centers, the reference material for each exam, and rescheduling your appointment.
How Can I Prepare for the HVAC License Exam in Texas?
The Candidate Information Bulletin has content outlines for each exam.
The Environmental Air Class A exam has 120 questions that must be completed in 230 minutes. Question topics include:
Air Distribution
Basic Refrigeration Components
Combustion Air
Controls
Equipment Requirements and Design
HVAC Systems
Piping
Refrigeration Principles
Safety
Service
Testing
Texas Laws and Rules
Ventilation
Venting
The Class B Environment Air exam covers the same topics, but only has 100 questions and a 170-minute time limit.
The Commercial Refrigeration Class A exam has 120 questions and a 230-minute time limit. Question topics include:
Air Distribution
Basic Refrigeration Components
Combustion Air
Controls
Equipment Requirements
HVACR Systems and Design
Piping
Refrigeration Principles
Safety
Service
Testing
Texas Laws and Rules
Ventilation
Venting
The Commercial Refrigeration Class B exam covers the same topics. There are 100 questions, which must be completed in 170 minutes. The Certified Technician exam has 60 questions and a 112-minute time limit. Question topics include:
Basic Refrigeration Components
Combustion Air
Controls
Piping
Refrigeration Principles
Safety
Testing, Diagnostics, and Service
Who Issues HVAC Licenses in Texas?
The Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation issues and renews all HVAC contractor licenses in the state.
Does My Texas HVAC License Work in Any Other State?
Yes. There are reciprocity agreements with South Carolina and Georgia.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an HVAC License in Texas?
Individuals who hold a current Georgia Class II Conditioned Air unrestricted license in good standing qualify for a Texas Class A, Environmental Air Conditioning license.
In South Carolina:
An Air Conditioning, Heating license qualifies an individual for a Class A, Environmental Air Conditioning and Commercial Refrigeration license.
An Air Conditioning license qualifies an individual for a Class A, Commercial Refrigeration and Class B Environmental Air Conditioning Mechanical Contractor.
A Refrigeration license qualifies an individual for a Class A Commercial Refrigeration license.
An Air Conditioning and Heating (Packaged equipment) license qualifies an individual for a Class B, Environmental Air Conditioning license.
You will need to apply, pay the application fee, and have a letter of good standing from your current state.
If you currently hold the equivalent of an air conditioning and refrigeration contractor license from another state or municipality, and you intend to become licensed in Texas, you may be able to use your current qualifications to obtain licensure in Texas. You will begin the process by applying, then taking the required exams.
HVAC Specific Requirements: EPA Certification
Throughout the country, including in Texas, 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 Texas
A contractor who has a Class B license with one or combined endorsements may upgrade to a Class A license by submitting a completed Notice of Change and Duplicate License Request Form (PDF) along with the change fee of $25.
You will also need to take a new licensing exam and pay the examination fee of $74.
Contractors can add an endorsement to an existing license by submitting a completed Notice of Change and Duplicate License Request Form (PDF) along with the change fee of $25. You will also need to take a new licensing exam and pay the relevant examination fee.
Are There HVAC Scholarships in Texas?
Yes, there are HVAC scholarships available in Texas. Options include:
PHCC Educational Foundation Scholarships: For students in HVAC or plumbing apprenticeship programs, trade schools, or pursuing related degrees.
Rick Shelton Legacy Scholarship: Offers financial support for family members of PHCC members.
In addition to this scholarship, HVAC students in Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas?
Your HVAC license can be verified by potential clients or employees in Texas through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation’s online hub. Users can search by name or license number.
When Can an HVAC License Be Suspended in Texas?
A suspended HVACR/Mechanical license means that the license holder is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. Some of the common reasons that Texas HVACR/Mechanical 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
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Texas HVAC license regulations you can refer to the official Texas Occupations Code.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed HVAC Work in Texas?
Performing HVAC work in Texas without a license is considered a Class B misdemeanor. This incurs a fine of $1,000 to $3,500 and/or up to 1-year full suspension.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Texas HVAC license regulations you can refer to the official Texas Occupations Code.
Continuing Education
To keep your state-issued license current, Texas requires you to complete eight hours of continuing education, including one hour of instruction. This continuing education must be completed before your license expires. For late renewal (if eligible), educational courses must be completed within one year immediately prior to the date of renewal.
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.
