HVAC Contractor License Requirements in Texas

Overview — hvac licensing in Texas

Texas requires a state-level hvac contractor license, issued by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Air Conditioning and Refrigeration. 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

Texas offers 2 hvac license classes — pick based on the largest project you plan to bid:

• Class A Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor. All HVAC work, no size limits. Required for systems over 25 tons or for environmental refrigeration.
• Class B Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor. HVAC up to 25 tons cooling, 1.5M BTU/hr heating, environmental refrigeration up to 5 tons.

Experience required

Class A: 48 months experience. Class B: 36 months.

Exam — what you're tested on

Texas requires a written examination administered by PSI Services on behalf of TDLR. Topics covered:

• IMC + TX amendments
• Refrigeration theory
• Code calculations
• TX HVAC laws

Passing score: 70%.

Fees

• Application fee: $50
• Initial license fee: $115
• Renewal fee: $115 ( annual)

Bond & insurance

Bond: Not required at the state level.

General liability insurance: Minimum $600,000.

Workers' compensation: Optional in TX but most HVAC companies carry it.

Continuing education

Texas requires 8 hours of continuing education annual. CE must come from approved providers — verify a course is approved before paying. Required topics typically include:

• IMC updates
• Refrigerant management
• Safety

Reciprocity with other states

Texas has reciprocity agreements with: NC, OK, SC, TN. 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

Most TX cities require HVAC permits. Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin have their own inspection regimes.

Common gotchas

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

• Class A vs Class B scope — exceeding 25 tons with Class B is a violation.
• EPA Section 608 separate from TDLR — federal requirement for refrigerant handling.
• Annual CE (8 hours) — TDLR-approved providers.
• Apprentice registration not required in TX, but required if pursuing journey/master via TDLR.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between Texas Class A and Class B HVAC contractor?

Class A is unlimited — any size HVAC system. Class B is limited to 25 tons cooling, 1.5M BTU/hr heating, 5 tons environmental refrigeration. Most residential HVAC fits within Class B.

Does Texas reciprocity work for HVAC?

TX has reciprocity with NC, OK, SC, TN. Apply with proof of out-of-state license and current CE. Trade exam waived; TX law exam still required.

How much does it cost to maintain a Texas HVAC license annually?

$115 renewal + $200–$400 CE course = $300–$500/yr. Among cheapest state HVAC programs.

Do I need EPA Section 608 in addition to my Texas HVAC license?

Yes. EPA 608 is a federal requirement for handling refrigerants — required regardless of state. Most TX HVAC techs hold Universal (Type I, II, III combined).

Does Texas require CE for HVAC?

Yes — 8 hours annually, TDLR-approved providers. Many supply houses (Trane, Carrier, Lennox) host approved CE.