HVAC Contractor License Requirements in Florida

Overview — hvac licensing in Florida

Florida requires a state-level hvac contractor license, issued by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (within DBPR). The license verifies competence and consumer protection, and is required to legally bid and perform hvac work in the state. Working without one when required is typically a misdemeanor and exposes the contractor to civil penalties — and the contract becomes unenforceable in court.

License classes available

Florida offers 3 hvac license classes — pick based on the largest project you plan to bid:

• Class A Air Conditioning Contractor. All HVAC including commercial. Statewide.
• Class B Air Conditioning Contractor. Residential/light commercial up to 25 tons. Statewide.
• Class C Air Conditioning Contractor. Residential only.

Experience required

Class A: 4 years experience including 1 as foreman. Class B: 3 years. Class C: 2 years.

Exam — what you're tested on

Florida requires a written examination administered by Pearson VUE. Topics covered:

• FL Building Code Mechanical
• Business and finance
• FL HVAC laws

Passing score: 75%.

Fees

• Application fee: $249
• Initial license fee: $209
• Renewal fee: $209 ( biennial)

Bond & insurance

Bond: Not required at the state level.

General liability insurance: Minimum $100,000.

Workers' compensation: Required for 1+ employees.

Continuing education

Florida requires 14 hours of continuing education every 2 years. CE must come from approved providers — verify a course is approved before paying. Required topics typically include:

• FL mechanical code
• Safety
• Business practices

Reciprocity with other states

Florida has reciprocity agreements with: GA, NC, SC, TN, LA. Reciprocity typically waives the trade exam if you hold an equivalent license in good standing in the reciprocal state for at least one year. Each state still requires its own application and business/law exam.

Local permits and requirements

Every FL county requires HVAC permits. Hurricane-prone counties enforce specific tie-down requirements for outdoor units.

Common gotchas

Things that catch most applicants on their first license cycle in Florida:

• Class A vs B vs C — pick the right scope.
• Florida's heat means HVAC is heavily used; service-call expectations are higher.
• Hurricane outdoor-unit anchoring required in HVHZ counties.
• AOB applies to water-damage claims involving HVAC drains.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between FL Class A, B, and C HVAC?

Class A: unlimited (large commercial). Class B: residential/light commercial up to 25 tons. Class C: residential only. Pick based on the largest job you plan to bid.

How long does FL HVAC licensing take?

Application: 30–60 days. Exam: 2–8 weeks. Total: 3–6 months from start.

Do I need EPA Section 608 in Florida?

Yes — federal requirement. Universal certification recommended for FL HVAC since you'll handle high-pressure (Type II) refrigerants in most installs.

Can I keep my FL HVAC license if I move?

Yes. No FL residency requirement. Maintain insurance, complete CE, pay biennial renewal.

What CE counts for FL's 14-hour HVAC requirement?

DBPR-approved courses only. Florida Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Contractors Association (FRACCA) and several community colleges run approved CE.