HVAC Technician License Requirements in Michigan
| Licensing Authority | Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes, Mechanical Division (LARA/BCC) |
| License Type | Mechanical Contractor |
| Experience Required | Minimum 3 years of work experience under a licensed mechanical contractor. An associate degree can substitute for 1 year of experience. Must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. |
| Education Substitute | Associate degree can count for 1 year of the 3-year experience requirement |
| Exam Required | Yes — HVAC Equipment Exam + Other Classification Exams (Hydronic, Ductwork, Refrigeration, etc.) + Contractor Law, Construction Code Law & Safety Rules |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | Not required |
| Processing Time | 2-4 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $300 |
| Exam Fee | $25 |
| Est. Initial Total | $325 |
Exam Requirements
HVAC Equipment Exam
150 questions180 minutesPass: 70%
HVAC equipment installationService and repairMichigan Mechanical Code
Other Classification Exams (Hydronic, Ductwork, Refrigeration, etc.)
55 questions60 minutesPass: 70%
Trade-specific knowledge per classification
Contractor Law, Construction Code Law & Safety Rules
15 questionsIncluded in exam timePass: 70%
Michigan mechanical contractor law and rulesConstruction code lawBasic safety rules
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
Mechanical Contractor (single classification)
3 years under a licensed contractor
Exam: Required
Mechanical Contractor (multiple classifications)
3 years under a licensed contractor; must pass separate exam for each classification
Exam: Required
Notes
- 10 classification types: Hydronic Heating/Cooling, HVAC Equipment, Ductwork, Refrigeration, Limited Heating Service, Unlimited Heating Service, Limited Refrigeration & AC Service, Unlimited Refrigeration & AC Service, Fire Suppression, Specialty
- Must pass a separate exam for each classification sought
- EPA Section 608 certification is federally required for anyone handling refrigerants
- $25 exam fee is per classification exam
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a hvac technician license in Michigan?
Yes, Michigan requires a statewide hvac technician license through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes, Mechanical Division.
How much does a hvac technician license cost in Michigan?
The estimated initial cost is $325, including application, exam, and license fees.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: LARA/BCC