Georgia HVAC License Requirements

Since 1949, the state of Georgia has mandated that all HVAC technicians obtain a license before they can practice in the field.

Here are the different types of HVAC licenses available in Georgia:

• Class I: This is a restricted license that limits the type of work a home service professional can do. Technicians with this license can only work on cooling units of less than 60,000 BTU and heating units of less than 175,000 BTU. The average salary for Class I technicians is $35,000.
• Class II: A Class II license is unrestricted and allows individuals to work on any type of HVAC equipment. Technicians with this license can expect an annual salary of approximately $50,000.
• NATE Certification: While not a requirement in Georgia, obtaining North American Technical Excellence certification demonstrates additional training and skills. Having this certification can increase salary expectations by about $10,000.
• EPA Certification: Technicians handling refrigerants must pass an exam and obtain certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Once obtained, this refrigeration license does not require renewal.

Benefits of Getting an HVAC License in Georgia

Obtaining an HVAC license in Georgia can provide you with a range of valuable benefits:

• Access to Useful Information: Getting licensed means gaining access to essential knowledge and resources. You'll learn about effectively running an HVAC business and working with potentially hazardous chemicals.
• Increased Job Opportunities: Most companies and private individuals in the HVAC industry prefer to hire licensed professionals. Holding a license demonstrates your experience and competence in repairing, maintaining, and installing HVAC units.
• Enhanced Trust and Credibility: By becoming licensed, you gain the trust of clients and employers. They are more likely to rely on an HVAC technician who has undergone rigorous training and demonstrated their expertise through the licensure process.
• Professional and Personal Growth: Acquiring a license signifies your commitment to professional development and continuous learning in the HVAC field. It opens doors to further advancement and opportunities for career growth.

Investing in obtaining an HVAC license in Georgia can provide a solid foundation for a successful and rewarding career in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry.

Georgia HVAC License Fees

Obtaining a Georgia HVAC license requires the following fees:

• $30 - Application fee to receive license approval
• $240 - Exam fee
• $25 - EPA certification fee
• $100-$200 - Underwriting fee for a $10,000 surety bond

Requirements for obtaining an HVAC license in Georgia:

1. Educational Requirement: A high school diploma or GED is the basic educational requirement for a Georgia HVAC license. While attending trade schools like Fortis College, Interactive College of Technology, or Lincoln College of Technology for HVAC training is not mandatory, it can be beneficial.
2. Experience Requirement: The main requirement for a Georgia HVAC license is experience. The experience requirements vary based on the class of license:
   • Class I applicants need four years of experience working with HVAC units.
   • Class II applicants need five years of experience, which includes experience with bigger heating and cooling systems, two years of installation, and two years of commercial supervisory experience.
   In both classes, having an engineering degree from a technical school can count as two years of experience, and completing a certification program can count as one year of experience.
3. Application Process: Upon gaining the required experience, you need to apply with the State Construction Industry Licensing Board. This application verifies your insurance coverage and conducts background checks to ensure you have no criminal history.
4. Licensing Exam: Once the application process is complete, you can take the Georgia HVAC licensing exam. The exam consists of 100 questions and has a seven-hour time limit. To pass, you must answer at least 70% of the questions correctly. The exam is open book, and if you do not pass, you can retake it as many times as needed.
5. License Renewal: All licenses need to be renewed every two years with the licensing board. The renewal process involves paying a fee of $75 and completing four hours of continuing education.
6. Reciprocity: Georgia has reciprocity agreements with Louisiana, South Carolina, and Texas. This means that if you hold a Georgia HVAC license, you can use it to work in these states as well.

Obtaining an HVAC license in Georgia opens up opportunities for a thriving career in the HVAC industry.