HVAC LICENSING

Pennsylvania HVAC license:
Everything you need to know

The HVAC industry in Pennsylvania has a growing job market. In fact, skilled HVAC technicians command competitive salaries and advance quickly in their careers. If you’re ready to take on new career challenges, consider applying for a job in the HVAC industry.

Read this Pennsylvania HVAC license guide to learn everything you need to know. You’ll learn about apprenticeships and examination requirements.

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

Pennsylvania does not have state requirements for HVAC licensing. However, HVAC and refrigeration technicians are required to apply for local certifications to perform specific jobs.

What are the different types of HVAC licenses?

The scope of the HVAC job determines the type of certifications HVAC and refrigeration technicians are required to possess. Different types of local certifications include home improvement contractor certification, Grade B refrigeration engineer certification, and an HVAC contractor certification.

Home improvement contractors ensure that home improvement projects meet Pennsylvania code requirements, obtain necessary local permits, and manage HVAC installation/repair/maintenance job sites. Applicants for the home improvement certification must

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have at least two years work experience with home improvements.
  • Complete an HVAC/refrigeration training program or have a 2-year/4-year college degree.
  • Possess a valid Pennsylvania identification card or driver’s license.

Grade B refrigeration engineers maintain, install, and repair refrigerated storage units, ice machines, and HVAC units. Applicants for the Grade B refrigeration engineer certification must:

  • Have at least 2,000 hours of experience in refrigeration.
  • Complete a minimum of 100 classroom hours of course training.
  • Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
  • Pass the International Code examination.

HVAC contractors maintain, install, and repair heating, air conditioning, and ventilation units for residential and commercial properties. Applicants for the HVAC contractor certification must:

  • Have a high school diploma or GED.
  • Possess at least four years of HVAC experience.
  • Possess general liability insurance.
  • Receive a passing grade on the International Code Council Certification examination.
  • Be at least 18 years old.

HVAC and refrigeration certifications are issued at the local level. Contact your local licensing board for specific HVAC and refrigeration job requirements.

The average HVAC tech salary in Pennsylvania is $46,218 or $22.22 per hour.

Benefits of getting an HVAC license

HVAC and refrigeration technicians perform different jobs every day. If you are a person who likes variety, a job as an HVAC or refrigeration technician may be a good fit for you.

Sitting behind a desk all day is boring for some people. When you work as an HVAC technician, you have the opportunity to move around at job sites.

HVAC and refrigeration training is not a lengthy process. In many instances, technicians earn their certifications in less than a year.

As an HVAC apprentice, you get paid while you are learning the HVAC and refrigeration trade. Many HVAC apprentice jobs offer vacation pay, sick pay, and health insurance.

HVAC and refrigeration technicians work in different settings. These workplaces include colleges, restaurants, large corporations, public schools, hospitals, and entertainment venues.

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

Pennsylvania HVAC license requirements vary. Each municipality and city in Pennsylvania has different license fees.

How to get an HVAC license in Pennsylvania

Contact your local licensing board in Pennsylvania to determine the certifications and licenses. HVAC and refrigeration technicians are generally required to have on-the-job experience and classroom training. It is a good idea to enroll in a Pennsylvania HVAC apprenticeship program or apply for an entry-level HVAC/refrigeration technician job to gain experience.

Pennsylvania HVAC training programs and schools

Types of HVAC classes

  • State, federal and local laws
  • Basic electricity for HVAC
  • Natural gas piping
  • Air conditioning control principles
  • Ergonomics
  • Mechanical codes
  • Gas and electric heating
  • HVAC best practices
  • Water volume
  • HVAC systems design
  • Power and resistance
  • Energy management and green building design

Program tuition costs: Tuition for Pennsylvania HVAC/refrigeration trade school and community college programs vary. Expect to pay up to $10,000 for your HVAC and refrigeration coursework. Classroom and online course options are available. Accredited colleges, universities, and trade schools offer financial aid for students.

HVAC program prerequisites

  • Possess a Pennsylvania driver’s license/identification card and social security card.
  • Pass a general aptitude test.
  • Have a high school diploma or a GED.
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Be physically capable of performing HVAC work.

On-the-job experience

  • Repair, install, and replace heating, air conditioning, and ventilation units.
  • Learn and apply Pennsylvania HVAC codes.
  • Read blueprints.
  • Perform math calculations on a variety of HVAC and refrigeration jobs.
  • Perform HVAC repair, installation, and maintenance work under the direction of an HVAC supervisor.
  • Work a minimum of 40 hours per week.

HVAC Certification and licensing exams details

  • Complete an application to take the International Code Council exam.
  • The fee is $150 per exam.
  • Passing score for the exam is 70%.
  • Exams are administered by ICC

How to prepare for HVAC exams: Begin your examination preparation process at least 6 weeks before the examination date. Study with a partner. View HVAC and refrigeration installation and maintenance videos. Hire a private tutor or attend tutoring sessions at your school. Get help from an HVAC or refrigeration technician. Read examination books and study guides.

Exam resources

Pennsylvania HVAC license renewal: Renewal fees and timelines may vary. Contact the HVAC licensing board in your area to learn about renewal requirements.