Discover How to Get HVAC License in Georgia: Requirements & Process

Starting a career as a professional in the heating and cooling industry within Georgia opens doors to a stable and growing field. The state refers to this professional credential as a Conditioned Air Contractor license. This designation is essential for anyone aiming to operate their own business or oversee complete system installations.

Georgia’s requirements are managed by the Licensing Division of the Secretary of State’s Office. While entry-level technicians can work under a licensed supervisor, securing your own credential offers greater independence and higher earning potential. The local industry is robust, employing thousands with a growth rate that outpaces the national average.

This guide details the complete process for achieving your professional standing. You will learn about the necessary experience, education, and examinations. We will also clarify the two primary license classes to help you choose the right path for your ambitions in the Georgia HVAC market.

Key Takeaways

• Georgia’s official credential for HVAC professionals is known as a “Conditioned Air Contractor” license.
• The Georgia Secretary of State’s Office oversees the licensing process through its Division of Conditioned Air Contractors.
• You can work in an entry-level role without a license if supervised by a licensed contractor.
• Georgia ranks 9th nationally for HVAC employment, with a projected growth rate double the national average.
• The state’s climate creates consistent, year-round demand for skilled heating and cooling services.
• The path to licensure involves meeting specific experience, education, and examination requirements.
• Two license types (Class I and Class II) are available, based on the scope of work you wish to perform.

Overview of HVAC Licensing in Georgia

Georgia’s distinct seasonal shifts create a consistent need for skilled heating and cooling professionals. The state’s climate demands reliable air conditioning during humid summers and efficient heating through chilly winters. This year-round requirement ensures steady work for qualified contractors.

Your career prospects in this field are exceptionally strong. Georgia ranks ninth nationally for employment in this sector with over 11,500 professionals currently working. The state‘s growth projection of 18% doubles the national average, indicating thousands of new opportunities.

Industry Context and Demand in the Peach State

The market for conditioned air services continues to expand. Recent surveys show 63% of local construction firms report unfilled positions for skilled tradespeople. This shortage creates excellent job security for licensed professionals.

Compensation reflects this high demand. Median wages range from $57,930 to $63,970 annually. With experience and proper credentials, earning potential increases significantly.

State Climate and Its Impact on HVAC Services

Georgia’s weather patterns drive continuous need for climate control systems. Both residential and commercial properties require regular maintenance and upgrades. Equipment wears out from constant use throughout the year.

Energy efficiency standards also create additional service demands. Property owners frequently seek upgrades to older systems. This ensures compliance with evolving environmental regulations while reducing operating costs.

Understanding the Georgia HVAC License: Types and Requirements

Georgia establishes clear professional tiers for conditioned air specialists through its dual-category licensing system. Your choice between these two class levels directly impacts the scope of projects you can undertake.

Class I vs. Class II Conditioned Air Contractor Licenses

The primary distinction lies in project size limitations. A Class I license restricts work to systems under 175,000 BTU for heating and 60,000 BTU for cooling. This type suits residential specialists.

Class II credentials offer unlimited project capabilities. They cover all commercial and industrial equipment sizes. This classification opens doors to larger, more complex installations.

License Type	Project Limits	Experience Required	Ideal For
Class I	Under 175k BTU heating Under 60k BTU cooling	4 years	Residential specialists
Class II	No restrictions	5 years	Commercial contractors

Work Experience, Education, and Certification Criteria

Both license types demand specific work experience combinations. Class I requires four years with residential focus. Class II needs five years including commercial projects.

Formal education can reduce experience requirements. Engineering diplomas count for two years. Certificate programs provide one year credit. Proper educational preparation accelerates your path.

EPA certification remains mandatory for refrigerant handling. This federal certification ensures safe environmental practices across all conditioned air contractor work.

How to Get HVAC License in Georgia: Step-by-Step Process

Navigating the application procedure for your professional credential involves several critical stages that require careful attention. Each step builds upon the previous one, ensuring your submission meets all regulatory standards.

Before beginning, confirm you meet basic eligibility criteria. You must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED equivalent. These fundamental requirements establish your qualification to proceed.

Application Submission and Surety Bond Requirements

Your first action involves creating an online account through Georgia’s official portal. Alternatively, you can download paper forms for mailing to the Division office in Macon. Both methods require the same comprehensive documentation.

You need three professional references from specific qualified individuals. These must be Registered Architects, Professional Engineers, Inspectors, or licensed conditioned air contractor professionals. Each reference must attest to your character and work experience.

A background check from law enforcement or private agency is mandatory. The $30 application fee completes your submission package. Your documentation should clearly demonstrate the required years of work experience.

Before operating independently, secure a $10,000 surety bond. Deposit this with the probate court judge in your primary working county. This financial guarantee protects consumers and completes your licensing process.

Educational Pathways and Apprenticeship Opportunities

Building a successful career in climate control systems requires a solid educational background and practical training. You have multiple options for gaining the knowledge needed for your conditioned air credential.

Vocational Programs and Certification Benefits

Georgia hosts eleven accredited programs through organizations like HVAC Excellence and PAHRA. These schools include Lanier Technical College and Gwinnett Technical College.

Your investment in education remains affordable at approximately $100 per credit hour. Certificate programs require as few as 12 credits, while associate degrees may need up to 70 credit hours.

Formal education can reduce your required work experience. Engineering diplomas count for two years, while certificate programs provide one year credit toward your license requirements.

Apprenticeship Programs and On-the-Job Training

Apprenticeship programs like the PHCC of Georgia option let you earn money while learning. This approach combines paid work with structured education.

Your time commitment varies based on the pathway chosen. Certificate programs take months, while associate degrees typically require two years of study.

On-the-job training provides invaluable experience with heating and air conditioning systems. You’ll work under licensed contractors who mentor you in real-world installations.

Exam Preparation and Licensing Examination Details

Your final step toward professional recognition involves mastering the state’s licensing examination. PSI Testing Services administers both Class I and Class II assessments for conditioned air contractors.

The computer-based test contains 120 total questions. You will answer 100 scored items and 20 ungraded pretest questions. A 70% passing score requires correct responses to at least 70 scored questions.

Exam Structure, Format, and Passing Criteria

Your testing experience spans seven hours divided into two equal parts. This open-book format allows reference material consultation during both sections.

Four subject areas comprise the examination content. System design represents the largest portion of scored questions. This emphasis reflects the practical demands of contracting work.

Exam Section	Number of Questions	Key Topics Covered
Regulations and Laws	8	Administrative functions, legal requirements
System Design	55	Heat calculations, duct design, equipment selection
Installation	25	Proper system setup, safety protocols
Maintenance and Repair	12	Troubleshooting, service procedures

Tools and Study Resources for Successful Exam Prep

Reference materials must follow specific preparation guidelines. Permanent tabs and highlighting are permitted using pen only. Handwritten notes and loose papers cannot enter the testing center.

Continuous testing availability since October 2022 eliminates scheduling delays. PSI locations throughout Georgia and neighboring states offer convenient appointment options.

Your preparation should prioritize system design concepts. This section contains over half of the examination’s scored questions. Focused study in this area increases your success probability.

Cost, Fees, and Financial Considerations in Licensing

Budget considerations play a significant role in your path toward becoming a certified air systems specialist. Proper financial planning ensures you can cover all necessary expenses throughout the credentialing process.

Your investment includes both initial costs and ongoing fees. Understanding these amounts helps you prepare adequately for each stage.

Breakdown of Application, Exam, and Renewal Fees

The financial commitment begins with your initial submission. You’ll encounter several mandatory payments throughout the process.

Educational expenses vary based on your chosen pathway. Technical school programs offer different credit requirements and associated costs.

Fee Type	Amount	Frequency	Payment To
Application Fee	$30	One-time	Georgia Division
Exam Fee	$267	One-time	PSI Testing
EPA Certification	$20-$150	One-time	Testing Center
Renewal Fee	$75	Every 2 years	State Board
Education (Certificate)	$1,200	One-time	Technical School

Continuing education represents an ongoing requirement. You must complete four approved hours annually.

Your surety bond involves premium payments rather than the full amount. Credit history influences these annual costs significantly.

Total initial investment typically ranges from $2,000 to $8,000. This comprehensive amount covers all necessary steps for credential acquisition.

Working as a Licensed HVAC Contractor in Georgia

Your professional credential unlocks substantial career and financial benefits in Georgia’s heating and cooling industry. The credential validates your expertise and opens doors to advanced opportunities.

Operating as a certified contractor provides legal authority for complete system installations and business ownership. You can advertise services directly, obtain commercial insurance, and pull building permits. This status allows bidding on lucrative government projects reserved for qualified professionals.

Business Advantages and Licensing Benefits

Your license serves as proof of experience and skill level, creating competitive advantage. It protects both your company and customers through state-mandated standards. Geographic flexibility comes through reciprocity agreements with Louisiana, South Carolina, and Texas.

Competitive Salary and Industry Growth Insights

Earning potential increases significantly with your credentialed status. The annual mean salary for mechanics and installers in this state is $53,500 according to federal data.

• Installers average $23.32 per hour ($48,505 annually)
• Technicians earn $27.32 per hour ($56,825 annually)
• Mechanics make $28.36 per hour ($58,989 annually)
• Supervisory roles reach $86,937 base salary

Overtime pay adds approximately $6,750 annually during peak seasons. Median wages range between $57,930 and $63,970 for experienced licensed professionals.

Conclusion

The journey toward becoming a certified air systems specialist in the Peach State offers both immediate income and long-term career advancement. You gain valuable hands-on experience while working toward your professional credentials. This path leads to a rewarding career with exceptional stability.

Your investment in the licensing process pays substantial dividends. Georgia’s heating and cooling sector grows at double the national rate. This creates consistent demand for skilled conditioned air contractor professionals.

You now possess a complete roadmap for achieving your HVAC license in this thriving market. The comprehensive resources available support your success every step of the way. Begin documenting your experience and take the first steps toward your new career today.

FAQ

What are the main types of conditioned air contractor licenses in Georgia?

The state offers two primary license classes. A Class I license allows you to work on systems of any capacity. A Class II license restricts you to systems under 175,000 BTUs for heating and under 60,000 BTUs for cooling. Your choice depends on the scale of work you plan to undertake.

How much work experience is required for a Georgia HVAC license?

You need a minimum of four years of practical experience. At least one year must be in a supervisory role. The Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board requires detailed documentation of this experience from your past employers.

What is on the Georgia HVAC contractor examination?

The test covers critical topics like heating theory, cooling principles, ventilation, refrigeration, electrical knowledge, and Georgia state codes and regulations. You must answer a set number of questions correctly within a specific time limit to pass.

Are there education requirements to become a licensed HVAC contractor?

A> While a college degree is not mandatory, you must complete specific coursework. This includes classes in HVAC fundamentals, system design, and code compliance. Many vocational schools and community colleges in Georgia offer approved programs that satisfy these educational prerequisites.

What are the costs associated with obtaining and maintaining the license?

You will pay fees for the application, the licensing examination, and the initial license issuance. There is also a biennial renewal fee. Additionally, you must obtain a surety bond, which is a separate cost based on your bond amount.

How long does the entire licensing process typically take?

The timeline varies but generally takes several months. It includes gathering experience references, completing education, applying for and scheduling the exam, and awaiting board approval after passing the test. Planning ahead is crucial for a smooth process.

What are the benefits of working as a licensed HVAC contractor in Georgia?

Holding a license boosts your credibility, allows you to bid on larger projects, and often leads to higher earnings. It demonstrates to customers that you meet strict state standards for quality and safety, giving you a significant competitive advantage.