HVAC LICENSING

Alabama HVAC license:
Everything you need to know

If you are thinking about starting a career in the HVAC industry or starting your own HVAC company, it is a good time to take action. In the United States, there is a shortage of skilled laborers.

There are plenty of job opportunities for people who are willing to put in the work. Apply for an Alabama HVAC license to take advantage of HVAC technician opportunities. This guide contains information about licensing and education requirements.

Do you need a license in Alabama to become an HVAC technician?

The state of Alabama requires all HVAC technicians to be licensed to perform heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration services on residential and commercial properties.

What are the different types of HVAC licenses?

The types of licenses available in Alabama are HVAC contractor and Refrigeration contractor. Specialties include heating/air conditioning and refrigeration. Applicants must take exams to get certified in each specialty area.

Alabama HVAC contractors install, repair, and service air conditioning heating systems. HVAC contractors use mechanical equipment to control humidity and temperature. Applicants for the HVAC contractor license must:

  • Get approval from the Alabama licensing board to sit for the exam.
  • Be registered as an HVAC apprentice.
  • Complete a minimum of 3,000 hours of HVAC coursework.
  • Graduate from an approved Alabama HVAC program.
  • Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.

Alabama refrigeration contractors repair/install refrigeration systems and replace pipes. Applicants for the Alabama refrigeration license must:

  • Pass an Alabama refrigeration contractor examination.
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have a high school diploma or GED.
  • Graduate from an approved HVAC program.
  • Be registered as an HVAC apprentice.
  • Get approval to sit for the exam.
  • Complete a minimum of 3,000 hours of HVAC coursework.

Alabama HVAC contractors are authorized to work on heating and air conditioning units. Alabama refrigeration contractors are authorized to work on refrigeration systems.

Contractor licenses are issued by the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors. The average HVAC technician salary in Alabama is $39,042 or $18.77 an hour.

Benefits of getting an HVAC license

As an HVAC technician, you will learn new skills as technology changes, like new equipment installation, repair techniques, and troubleshooting. Learning new skills keeps your mind sharp and prevents boredom.

It does not take long to get trained for an Alabama HVAC license. The average time to complete an HVAC program is 7 months.

Receive on-the-job HVAC training as an HVAC apprentice. You have the opportunity to earn a salary while you take your HVAC courses.

HVAC technicians lead an active lifestyle. HVAC technicians work at several job sites each day. They drive company vehicles and meet new people. This is a good job for you if you do not want to sit behind a desk all day.

How much does it cost to get an HVAC license in Alabama?

The fee for Alabama HVAC contractor and Alabama refrigeration contractor licenses is $150.

How to get an HVAC license in Alabama

Enroll in an Alabama HVAC apprentice program. After you have completed the program, you are eligible to sit for the HVAC contractor and refrigeration contractor examinations.

Alabama HVAC training programs and schools

Enroll in an Alabama HVAC apprentice program. After you have completed the program, you are eligible to sit for the HVAC contractor and refrigeration contractor examinations.

Types of HVAC classes

  • Basic Electricity for HVAC
  • Gas and Electric Heating
  • Air Conditioning Control Principles
  • HVAC Systems Design
  • Energy Management and Green Building Design
  • Water Volume
  • Electrical Heating
  • Power and Resistance

Program Tuition Costs: Tuition for HVAC trade schools varies. Expect to pay between $4,000 and $10,000 to complete your HVAC certification courses. Since HVAC is a hands-on profession, courses are offered in a classroom setting.

HVAC program prerequisites

  • Possess an Alabama driver’s license or ID card.
  • Have a high school diploma or a GED.
  • Take a placement test.
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Be physically capable of performing HVAC work.

On-the-job experience

  • Attend HVAC apprentice training classes after work.
  • Learn Alabama HVAC codes.
  • Read blueprints to install HVAC systems.
  • Perform math calculations as needed.
  • Assist supervisor with HVAC maintenance, repair, and installations.
  • Perform HVAC work at least 40 hours per week.

HVAC licenses are issued by the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors

Alabama licensing exams details

  • Exam fee is $150.
  • HVAC Contractor Exam is 80 questions (4 hours to complete).
  • HVAC Refrigeration Exam is 60 questions (3 hours to complete).
  • Passing score for both exams is 70%.
  • Exams are administered by Prov Inc

How to study for HVAC exams: Participate in a study group. Participate in hands-on projects at your HVAC apprentice job. Take HVAC practice exams under timed conditions. Study your class notes. Watch HVAC installation and repair videos.

Exam resources

HVAC license renewal: Renew your Alabama HVAC license by December 31 of every year. The license renewal fee is $190. Allow up to 60 days to receive your HVAC license in Alabama.