HVAC Technician License Requirements in Maryland
| Licensing Authority | Maryland Board of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors (HVACR Board) |
| License Type | Apprentice / Journeyman / Master HVACR Contractor |
| Experience Required | Journeyman: 4 years as an HVACR apprentice (all 5 service categories). Journeyman Restricted: 3 years (1-4 service categories). If apprenticeship is approved by MD Apprenticeship and Training Council, the licensing exam may be waived for journeyman level. |
| Education Substitute | Completion of a Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Council-approved HVACR apprenticeship program waives the journeyman licensing exam. Other formal HVACR education may count toward experience at the Board's discretion. |
| Exam Required | Yes — HVACR Journeyman/Master Exam + Limited HVACR Contractor Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours every 2 years |
| Processing Time | 4-8 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Exam Fee | $150 |
| Apprentice license | $10 |
| Journeyman license | $20 |
| Master/Master Restricted license | $75 |
| Exam fee | $150 |
| Est. Initial Total | $480 |
Renewal: $75 every 2 years
Exam Requirements
HVACR Journeyman/Master Exam
Limited HVACR Contractor Exam
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
HVACR Apprentice
Entry level — must work under a licensed HVACR contractor
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Restricted
3 years as an HVACR apprentice (covers 1-4 of the 5 HVACR service categories)
Exam: Required
Journeyman
4 years as an HVACR apprentice (covers all 5 HVACR service categories)
Exam: Required
Master Restricted
Journeyman restricted license + additional experience
Exam: Required
Master
Journeyman license + additional supervisory experience
Exam: Required
Limited Contractor
Limited scope — must meet Board requirements for specific service categories
Exam: Required
Notes
- MHIC license also required if performing residential HVAC work
- 5 HVACR service categories: heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, hydronic
- Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Council-approved apprenticeship waives journeyman exam
- EPA Section 608 certification required for refrigerant handling (federal requirement)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an hvac technician license in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland requires a statewide hvac technician license through the Maryland Board of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors.
How much does an hvac technician license cost in Maryland?
The estimated initial cost is $225, including application, exam, and license fees.
What experience do I need for an hvac technician license in Maryland?
Journeyman: 4 years as an HVACR apprentice (all 5 service categories). Journeyman Restricted: 3 years (1-4 service categories). If apprenticeship is approved by MD Apprenticeship and Training Council, the licensing exam may be waived for journeyman level. Education substitute: Completion of a Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Council-approved HVACR apprenticeship program waives the journeyman licensing exam. Other formal HVACR education may count toward experience at the Board's discretion.
What exams are required for an hvac technician license in Maryland?
You must pass the HVACR Journeyman/Master Exam and Limited HVACR Contractor Exam exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
How long does it take to get an hvac technician license in Maryland?
Processing time is typically 4-8 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for hvac technicians in Maryland?
Yes, 8 hours per every 2 years is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: HVACR Board