In Ohio, if you are an HVAC technician, there are different licensing requirements based on whether you work on residential properties or commercial buildings.

If you are working on residential properties, you do not need an Ohio HVAC license. However, if you work on commercial buildings, you must have a license from the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board.

In Ohio, there are several types of HVAC licenses available. Here is some information about each type:

• EPA certification: This certification is required for working with coolants. It offers certifications in small appliances, low-pressure coolant, high-pressure coolants, or all three. Since most HVAC contractors work with coolants, this certification is a must. The average rate of pay is about $22.00 per hour.
• NATE certification: This certification demonstrates the depth of your knowledge. Being NATE certified could earn you $30 an hour.
• Journeyman: As a journeyman, you will work under a Master HVAC technician and earn approximately $19 an hour.
• Master HVAC technicians: With this license, you can own a business and hire employees. You can earn $22 an hour, but additional certifications can increase your earning potential.
• HVAC engineer: An HVAC engineer possesses the certifications mentioned above, along with a bachelor's degree. They can design and build HVAC systems and earn more than $30 an hour.

It's important to note that HVAC and refrigeration differ in terms of coolant location, coolant circulation, and the mechanisms causing gases to vaporize.

Benefits of Having an HVAC License in Ohio

1. Higher Pay

If you are licensed in Ohio as an HVAC professional, you will enjoy higher hourly wages compared to those without a license.

2. More Job Opportunities

Having an HVAC license increases your chances of being hired by customers. They are more likely to trust and prefer licensed professionals in Ohio.

3. Ability to Hire Contractors

In Ohio, it is only possible to hire other contractors as employees if you hold an HVAC license. This expands your potential to take on larger projects and grow your business.

To apply for the Ohio HVAC license examination, there is a current fee of $69, in addition to a $25 application fee.

The Ohio Department of Commerce is responsible for setting the requirements for obtaining an Ohio HVAC license.

Is schooling required?

Schooling is only necessary for those who want to become HVAC engineers.

What are the best HVAC schools in Ohio?

Here are some highly-rated HVAC schools in Ohio:

• Career and Technology Education Centers of Licking County: This school has a 71% passing rate and costs a little over $6,000 to complete.
• Great Oaks Institute of Technology and Career Development: This school costs around $7,000 and boasts an 83% passing rate.
• Polaris Career Center: With a passing rate of 95%, this school costs nearly $8,000.

Additional tools may be required for coursework, so make sure to check the specific requirements of each school. Some schools may also require a high school diploma or GED for admission.

Many training programs require in-person attendance, but online schools from other states may be an option for Ohio residents. Financing options may be available, including grants, loans, and payment plans. Contact the school's financial aid department for more information.

On-the-job experience

Prior to taking the exam, you must have at least 5 years of work experience as an HVAC technician. If you're already an HVAC engineer, 3 years of work experience will suffice. It is assumed that you have worked consistently without gaps in employment for the specified time period, and all work experience must be on jobs that required a permit.

Who issues the licenses?

The Ohio Department of Commerce is responsible for issuing the Ohio HVAC license. You can find more information on their website: Ohio Department of Commerce.

Are there examinations?

To obtain your license, you must pass a written examination. There are various study resources available, including books, seminars, and short study courses. The examination is timed, but it is an open-book test. You are allowed to use the following books:

• 2015 International Fuel Gas Code
• 2017 Ohio Mechanical Code
• Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 20th edition

You can also use tabs to mark specific sections in your books for easier access during the exam.

Does the Ohio HVAC license need to be renewed?

To renew your license, you must earn continuing education credits either on a yearly or three-year basis. For a one-year renewal, you need 4 hours of online credit. If you choose a three-year renewal, you will need 12 hours of online continuing education.

How long does it take to get an HVAC license in Ohio?

It takes five years of work experience before you are eligible to take the license exam. Formal training programs offered by technical schools and colleges range from 6 months to two years, but completing the five-year apprenticeship is still required.