HVAC Technician License Requirements in Kentucky
| Licensing Authority | Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction — HVAC Division (DHBC) |
| License Type | Journeyman / Master HVAC |
| Experience Required | Journeyman: 2 years (minimum 3,000 hours) under a licensed master HVAC contractor, OR 4 years in a non-licensed jurisdiction. Master: requires journeyman license plus additional supervisory and business experience. |
| Education Substitute | HVAC trade school or technical program completion may count toward experience requirements at the DHBC's discretion. |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman HVAC Exam + Master HVAC Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 6 hours every renewal cycle |
| Processing Time | 4-6 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Exam Fee | $80 |
| Initial License Fee | $50 |
| Journeyman license fee (annual) | $50 |
| Master Contractor license fee (annual) | $250 |
| Exam fee (per exam) | $80 |
| Est. Initial Total | $560 |
Renewal: $50 every 1 year (prorated based on birth month)
Exam Requirements
Journeyman HVAC Exam
Master HVAC Exam
Exam provider: Prov Testing Services
License Tiers
HVAC Apprentice
Entry level — must work under licensed master HVAC contractor supervision
Exam: Not required
Journeyman HVAC Mechanic
2 years under a licensed master HVAC contractor, OR 4 years in a non-licensed jurisdiction
Exam: Required
Master HVAC Contractor
Journeyman license plus additional experience and business establishment
Exam: Required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 1 state. 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
- Open-book exam format
- Exams administered by Prov Testing Services
- EPA Section 608 certification required for refrigerant handling (federal requirement)
- Master HVAC contractors must maintain $500,000 GL / $300,000 property damage insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an hvac technician license in Kentucky?
Yes, Kentucky requires a statewide hvac technician license through the Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction — HVAC Division.
How much does an hvac technician license cost in Kentucky?
The estimated initial cost is $180, including application, exam, and license fees.
What experience do I need for an hvac technician license in Kentucky?
Journeyman: 2 years (minimum 3,000 hours) under a licensed master HVAC contractor, OR 4 years in a non-licensed jurisdiction. Master: requires journeyman license plus additional supervisory and business experience. Education substitute: HVAC trade school or technical program completion may count toward experience requirements at the DHBC's discretion.
What exams are required for an hvac technician license in Kentucky?
You must pass the Journeyman HVAC Exam and Master HVAC Exam exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by Prov Testing Services.
Does Kentucky have hvac technician license reciprocity?
Yes, Kentucky has reciprocity agreements with 1 state 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 Kentucky?
Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for hvac technicians in Kentucky?
Yes, 6 hours per every renewal cycle is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DHBC