HVAC Technician License Requirements in Alabama
| Licensing Authority | Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors (HACR) |
| License Type | Heating & Air Conditioning Contractor / Refrigeration Contractor |
| Experience Required | 2 years (3,000 hours) of documented work experience under the supervision of a licensed HVAC/R contractor with Board-issued Apprentice Certificates for 2 years, OR graduation from an approved HVAC/Refrigeration curriculum. Without Apprentice Certificates or approved curriculum, must submit proof of at least 3,000 hours (18 months) under a licensed HVAC/R contractor. Must be at least 18 years old. |
| Education Substitute | Graduation from a Board-approved Heating and Air Conditioning and/or Commercial Refrigeration curriculum can substitute for apprenticeship experience. |
| Exam Required | Yes — Heating & Air Conditioning Exam + Refrigeration Exam |
| Bond Required | Yes — $15,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 4 hours annually (due by December 31 each year) |
| Processing Time | 4-8 weeks after complete application and exam passage |
Fee Breakdown
| Exam Fee | $150 |
| Initial License Fee | $190 |
| Exam fee for both HAC + Refrigeration | $300 |
| Inactive license fee (annual) | $95 |
| Est. Initial Total | $735 |
Renewal: $190 every 1 year (expires December 31)
Exam Requirements
Heating & Air Conditioning Exam
Refrigeration Exam
Exam provider: Prov
License Tiers
Heating & Air Conditioning Contractor
2 years (3,000 hours) under a licensed contractor, or graduation from an approved HVAC curriculum.
Exam: Required
Refrigeration Contractor
2 years (3,000 hours) under a licensed contractor, or graduation from an approved commercial refrigeration curriculum.
Exam: Required
Combined HAC + Refrigeration
Must qualify and pass exams for both classifications separately.
Exam: Required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 5 states. View full reciprocity details — You may be able to skip the trade exam if you hold a valid license from one of these states.
Notes
- Must hold a valid Apprentice Certificate from the Board OR proof of approved curriculum graduation
- EPA Section 608 certification required separately for refrigerant handling (federal requirement)
- Exam fee is $150 per exam ($300 if testing for both HAC and Refrigeration)
- Bond amount may vary — $15,000 is the established minimum but verify current amount with HACR
- Active license fee ranges $190-$220 annually; inactive $95-$110
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an hvac technician license in Alabama?
Yes, Alabama requires a statewide hvac technician license through the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors.
How much does an hvac technician license cost in Alabama?
The estimated initial cost is $340, including application, exam, and license fees. A $15,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for an hvac technician license in Alabama?
2 years (3,000 hours) of documented work experience under the supervision of a licensed HVAC/R contractor with Board-issued Apprentice Certificates for 2 years, OR graduation from an approved HVAC/Refrigeration curriculum. Without Apprentice Certificates or approved curriculum, must submit proof of at least 3,000 hours (18 months) under a licensed HVAC/R contractor. Must be at least 18 years old. Education substitute: Graduation from a Board-approved Heating and Air Conditioning and/or Commercial Refrigeration curriculum can substitute for apprenticeship experience.
What exams are required for an hvac technician license in Alabama?
You must pass the Heating & Air Conditioning Exam and Refrigeration Exam exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by Prov.
Do I need a bond for an hvac technician license in Alabama?
Yes, a $15,000 surety bond is required. $15,000 performance bond required for active certification. Must be submitted with license application (forms AL-1, AL-2, BF-1). Some sources indicate the amount may have increased to $20,000 — verify with HACR directly.
Does Alabama have hvac technician license reciprocity?
Yes, Alabama has reciprocity agreements with 5 states that may apply to hvac technicians. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.
How long does it take to get an hvac technician license in Alabama?
Processing time is typically 4-8 weeks after complete application and exam passage after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for hvac technicians in Alabama?
Yes, 4 hours per annually (due by December 31 each year) is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: HACR