louisiana hvac: How to get certified and licensed in LA

With Louisiana’s hot climate, the demand for HVAC technicians is high. Whether you’re aiming to work for a company or start your own business, understanding the licensing requirements is crucial. 

This guide covers the key aspects of obtaining and maintaining an HVAC license in Louisiana.

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

Yes, Louisiana requires all HVAC technicians to hold a license issued by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC).

Benefits of Getting an HVAC License

A license enhances your professional credibility, signaling high-quality service and bolstering your reputation in the field. It also opens up significant business opportunities, allowing you to start your own HVAC business, set your own hours, and work independently. Moreover, obtaining advanced licenses and certifications can lead to increased earnings, offering higher salaries and expanding job opportunities.

Average salary for HVAC technicians in Louisana

The average salary for HVAC technicians in Louisana is approximately $54,600 per year, aligning with the national average of $50,590.

What are the different types of HVAC licenses?

Mechanical Work Contractor License

The Mechanical Work Contractor License allows you to work on any size HVAC unit. Salaries for this license vary by location, with rural areas averaging around $35,000 annually, while urban regions can see salaries up to $55,000.

Louisiana Commercial Contractor License

The Commercial Contractor License enables you to work on major projects where labor and materials cost $50,000 or more, typically for industrial or commercial HVAC equipment. The starting salary for this license is $65,000 per year.

NATE License

NATE Certification is a certificate of excellence that demonstrates additional training and expertise in HVAC systems. While optional, it can increase earnings by $10,000 to $20,000 per year.

EPA License

EPA Certification certifies your ability to work safely with refrigerants and is required for most HVAC equipment.

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

The basic test fee for obtaining a commercial contractor license is $120. Additionally, to qualify for this license, you must provide proof of a net worth of at least $10,000 within the last 12 months.

Renewal and continuing education

Licenses must be renewed annually. While continuing education is not specifically required, it is recommended to stay current with industry standards.

How to get an HVAC license in Louisiana

In Louisiana, you can pick between attending a trade school, like Ayers Career College and Unitech Training Academy, or getting an apprenticeship. Trade schools take two to four years to get a degree, and they cost about $12,000. Apprentices must possess a high school degree, be at least 18 years old, have at least two years of experience, and log 144 hours of classroom study. After you obtain your experience and education, you can apply to take the licensing exam. The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors administers the exam, and they post a list of all testing locations and times on its website. You can look at the official bulletin for preparation tips. To get the commercial contractor’s HVAC license, you have to take a different exam. Choose the general Mechanical Work Contractor exam or pick a subspecialty like heat and ventilation. Then, you will need to pass a business and law exam. The exam is an online, open-book, multiple-choice test that requires no registration. Your Louisiana HVAC license expires in one year. To renew it, you must take a brief course and pay a small fee. Make sure you renew your license 30 days before expiration.

Here are the key steps and requirements to obtain the license:

1. Education and Experience:
   • Education: Complete an HVAC certificate program or an Associate of Applied Science degree at a technical or community college, or finish an apprenticeship program that includes both hands-on training and classroom instruction (typically four to five years).
   • Apprenticeship: Requires at least two years of work experience and 144 hours of classroom study.
2. Examinations:
   • Trade Exam: A 100-question closed-book exam requiring a score of 70% or higher to test your technical knowledge.
   • Business and Law Exam: An 80-question exam, also requiring a minimum score of 70%, covering business and legal aspects.
3. Insurance and Bonding:
   • General Liability Insurance: Proof required with coverage of at least $100,000.
   • Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Required if you have employees.
   • Financial Statement: Submit a financial statement showing a net worth of at least $10,000 or secure a bond/letter of credit if unable to meet the net worth requirement.
4. Licensing Costs:
   • Application Fees: $120 for each classification plus $120 for the Business and Law portion.
   • Background Investigation Fee: $60.
   • Out-of-State Company Fee: $400.

Checklist for Obtaining an HVAC License in Louisana

1. Meet Basic Requirements:
   • Be at least 18 years old.
   • Hold a high school diploma or GED.
2. Gain Work Experience:
   • Complete an HVAC certificate or Associate degree program, or accumulate the required apprenticeship experience.
3. Submit Application:
   • Complete and submit the application form with the necessary fees and supporting documentation, including a financial statement and proof of insurance.
4. Pass Examinations:
   • Schedule and pass the trade exam and the Business and Law exam.
5. Obtain Insurance and Bond:
   • Secure the required liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.
6. Maintain License:
   • Renew the license annually, ensuring all documentation and fees are up-to-date.

Want more information?

Visit the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors website for detailed information on licensing and exam schedules.