Idaho HVAC License: Everything You Need to Know

Working as an HVAC technician in Idaho means you'll have the opportunity to perform interesting, challenging work that helps people.

Bureau of Labor Statistics

reports an expected growth rate of 15% for the HVAC industry.

In this guide, you'll find information about earning your Idaho HVAC license. Learn everything about the requirements, benefits, and costs.

You must possess an Idaho HVAC license to perform work in the state.

Idaho offers four different types of HVAC licenses:

The HVAC Apprentice License allows you to work in the improvement, installation, alteration, repair, or extension of HVAC systems in Idaho. Licensed HVAC apprentices can only perform HVAC under the supervision of a licensed journeyman or contractor.

Apprentices earn

$21.21 per hour

. These licenses can be renewed with the

Idaho Division of Building Safety (IDBS)

. Idaho HVAC

Apprentice License renewals

cost $50 annually.

The HVAC Journeyman License allows you to perform or supervise the improvement, installation, alteration, repair, or extension of HVAC systems. With Journeyman license, you can work independently under the direction of a licensed contractor.

Journeyman Licenses must be renewed by paying $75 prior to the expiration date or $110 within one year of the expiration date. The average salary of an Idaho HVAC Journeyman is

$49,511

.

The HVAC Contractor License allows you to perform HVAC services without supervision. The services offered may include installation, repair, or maintenance of HVAC appliances or gas-fired appliances,

Contractors are required to carry a $2,000 bond and must renew their licenses within one year of their expiration date or retake the contractor's test. The fee is $150 before the expiration date and $185 within two years after the expiration date. The average salary of an Idaho HVAC Contractor is $70,286.

The Specialty HVAC licenses covers certain types of HVAC work. Apprentice, journeyman, and contractor level licenses are available for the different specialties. Here are the categories:

Two types of licenses commonly held by Idaho HVAC technicians include:

Individuals who work in the HVAC industry are required to earn a license from the Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA license is granted to people who demonstrate the proper level of knowledge to work with refrigerants that could damage the ozone layer of the atmosphere. The requirements of the EPA license explained in Section 608 of the Clean Air Act.

NATE certification can translate into better pay for pay. Certification is granted by the North American Technical Excellence organization and requires a demonstration of HVAC equipment and process knowledge.

Getting your Idaho HVAC License gives you access to jobs and opportunities for career advancement. With a license, you're free to work on the installation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC equipment statewide. Plus, with an HVAC Contractor license, you can employ others to work for your company, thus increasing your income.

The application and registration fees for an Idaho HVAC License vary based on the license type. Here are the fees: 

If you would like to study in a classroom environment, the following institutions offer HVAC programs in Idaho:

Tuition, fees and costs vary by school and may range from $750 to more than $20,000. Typical classes in an accredited HVAC program might include:

For more specific information about program requirements, contact the school directly. Many schools have financing options available.

HVAC Apprentice Licensees are required to prove four years in an HVAC program or work experience under a licensed HVAC technician. After completing the educational and on-the-job training requirements, you are free to apply for your license with the

Idaho Division of Building Safety

. The IDBS has downloadable information about state laws and rules. You also can download the relevant license application materials from their website.

You can find resources, including the

Idaho HVAC Codes and Administrative Rules

and the manual for the business and law exam at the

Idaho DBS HVAC page

.

HVAC apprentice registration is valid for a period of five years. To register as an apprentice, you must be employed by an HVAC contractor and work under a licensed journeyman. To become a journeyman, you must work in the HVAC industry for four years or completed four years of HVAC education and working under a registered qualified journeyman licensee. Idaho offers reciprocity to license holders from others states.