HVAC License

The heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) field is a multifaceted vocation that deals with explosive gases from propane to natural gas, flammable liquids, such as heating oil, and harmful chemicals like freon. To work in the field, you must have an HVAC license, which is meant to ensure that you safely and legally install and repair heating, cooling and ventilation systems.

Here are the five steps you'll need to take to earn your license:

1. Enroll in an HVAC training course that focuses on licensure at a technical school, community college or online.
2. At the end of the program, take a course certification test.
3. After passing the HVAC course certification test, enroll in an apprenticeship with an HVAC technician, which usually takes from six to 24 months.
4. Submit an application to take the HVAC licensing test and pay the application fee up front. Most certification fees range from $30 to $100. Some states require a license, while others do not.
5. Begin your new technical career.

Technicians who purchase or work with refrigerants should be HVAC licensed in proper handling techniques. To become certified, technicians must pass a written examination specific to the specific type of work. Keeping up with technology and licensing can help you advance in the field.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the employment of technicians with an HVAC license will increase by 28 percent through 2018, much more rapidly than other occupations. In 2010, HVAC mechanics and installers earned a mean annual wage of $44,860. Nearly 15 percent of licensed HVAC mechanics and installers belong to a union.