The HVAC industry in Maryland is growing, offering opportunities for those interested in management roles or starting their own business. 

This guide provides comprehensive information on obtaining and maintaining an HVAC license in Maryland.

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

 Yes, a Maryland HVAC license is required to work as an HVAC technician in the state.

Benefits of getting an HVAC license

The HVAC industry is poised for significant growth, with projections indicating over 55,000 new jobs by 2022. This expansion is accompanied by competitive salaries, as even entry-level positions like apprentices can expect to earn around $40,000 per year. Additionally, advancements in technology, including new regulations like Freon bans and innovations such as dual-fuel heat pumps, offer exciting opportunities to work with cutting-edge equipment.

Average salary for HVAC technicians in Maryland

The average salary for an HVAC technician in Maryland is approximately $59,400 per year, which is above the national average of $50,590.

What are the different types of HVAC licenses?

There are three types of HVACR licenses: a journeyman license, a limited contractor license, and a master contractor license. There are also subcategories for journeyman restricted and master restricted licenses. These licenses allow you to work on a singular type of HVAC unit, including air conditioning, forced air, hydronic, refrigeration, and ventilation.

The Journeyman HVAC License allows you to work on all types of HVAC systems under the supervision of a licensed contractor. The Limited Contractor License permits the repair and maintenance of specific HVAC systems, with a licensing cost of $75. The Master Contractor License enables you to repair, maintain, and install all types of HVAC systems without supervision and allows you to open your own HVAC business with a licensing cost of $75. Additionally, Specialized Licenses, such as Journeyman Restricted and Master Restricted Licenses, are available for working on specific types of HVAC systems, including air conditioning, forced air, hydronic, refrigeration, or ventilation. 

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

The Apprenticeship License Fee is $10, while the Journeyman License Fee is $20. For those seeking a Limited Contractor or Master Contractor License, the fee is $75 each. Additionally, contractors are required to have property damage insurance of $100,000 and liability insurance coverage of $300,000.

Renewal and continuing education

Licenses must be renewed every two years. During each renewal period, HVAC contractors are required to complete at least 16 hours of continuing education.

How to get an HVAC license in Maryland

Schooling requirements

Attending a vocational school or HVAC technical college can help you gain the education to learn about modern HVAC systems. The top HVAC schools in Maryland include the Community College of Baltimore County, Montgomery College, and Brightwood College.

Tuition for an associate’s degree can cost around $10,000-$15,000. If you want a bachelor’s degree in the HVAC field, the top universities in Maryland include Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering and the University of Maryland in Baltimore. For a state university, tuition can cost about $40,000 for a four-year program. As for a private university, like Johns Hopkins, the costs can be as much as $50,000 per year. 

Contact the schools to ask about financial aid options. It’s also possible to take a portion of your classes online. The curriculum for these programs focuses on both theory and practical lessons.

On-the-job experience

To obtain a journeyman license, you must gain three years of experience. This experience can be gained in three ways. First, you could complete an HVACR certificate program or degree along with a year or two of experience under a master HVACR technician or journeyman. 

You also could enter into an apprenticeship program for three years, which equates to 1,875 hours of experience. This work mainly involves assisting journeymen and master technicians in standard repair and maintenance services. Finally, you could gain the three years of experience in the HVAC industry while working in another state. To obtain a master contractor license, you will need to work for three years as a journeyman.

Licensing Requirements

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 from a technical or community college.
   • Apprenticeship: Alternatively, complete a registered HVAC apprenticeship program or accumulate three years of work experience under a licensed HVAC contractor.
2. Examinations:
   • Journeyman Exam: Required for journeyman and master contractor licenses, costing approximately $150.
   • Specialized Exams: For journeyman restricted or master restricted licenses, the fee is $50.
   • Exam Duration: Journeyman and master contractor exams are 240 minutes long; limited contractor exams are 120 minutes; specialized exams are 120 minutes.
3. Insurance and Bonding:
   • General Liability Insurance: Proof required with at least $100,000 coverage.
   • Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Required if you have employees.
4. Licensing Costs:
   • Application Fees: Approximately $100 per license.
   • Exam Fees: Around $80 per exam.

Checklist for Obtaining an HVAC License in Maryland

1. Meet Basic Requirements:
   • Be at least 18 years old.
   • Hold a high school diploma or GED.
2. Gain Work Experience:
   • Complete an HVAC apprenticeship or accumulate three years of supervised work experience.
3. Submit Application:
   • Complete and submit the application form with the necessary fees and supporting documentation.
4. Pass Examinations:
   • Schedule and pass the journeyman HVAC exam, followed by the master HVAC exam if applicable.
5. Obtain Insurance and Bond:
   • Secure the required liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.
6. Maintain License:
   • Renew the license biennially, fulfilling any continuing education requirements.

Want more information?

Visit the Maryland Board of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Contractors website for detailed information on licensing and exam schedules.