HVAC Technician License Requirements in New Jersey
| Licensing Authority | State Board of Examiners of Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors (HVACR Board) |
| License Type | Master HVACR Contractor License |
| Experience Required | Multiple pathways: (1) Bachelor's degree in HVAC field + 1 year work experience, (2) degree in related field + 3 years work experience, (3) approved HVAC training program + 2 years work experience, or (4) 4-year apprenticeship + 1 year work experience. Must be at least 21 years old. |
| Education Substitute | Bachelor's degree in HVAC field reduces experience to 1 year. Related-field degree requires 3 years. Trade program requires 2 years. |
| Exam Required | Yes — HVACR Trade Exam + Business & Law Exam |
| Bond Required | Yes — $3,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 5 hours every 2 years (biennial renewal cycle) |
| Processing Time | 4-8 weeks after exam passage |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $100 |
| Exam Fee | $131 |
| Est. Initial Total | $231 |
Renewal: $160 every 2 years (biennial, expires June 30 of even-numbered years)
Exam Requirements
HVACR Trade Exam
Business & Law Exam
Exam provider: PSI
Notes
- Must be at least 21 years old
- Only one license tier: Master HVACR (no journeyman-level state license)
- Open-book exams with approved reference materials (must be spiral-bound or in binder)
- If exam not passed, must wait 6 months to retake
- EPA Section 608 certification also required for refrigerant handling (federal requirement)
- Next biennial renewal: June 30, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an hvac technician license in New Jersey?
Yes, New Jersey requires a statewide hvac technician license through the State Board of Examiners of Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors.
How much does an hvac technician license cost in New Jersey?
The estimated initial cost is $231, including application, exam, and license fees. A $3,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for an hvac technician license in New Jersey?
Multiple pathways: (1) Bachelor's degree in HVAC field + 1 year work experience, (2) degree in related field + 3 years work experience, (3) approved HVAC training program + 2 years work experience, or (4) 4-year apprenticeship + 1 year work experience. Must be at least 21 years old. Education substitute: Bachelor's degree in HVAC field reduces experience to 1 year. Related-field degree requires 3 years. Trade program requires 2 years.
What exams are required for an hvac technician license in New Jersey?
You must pass the HVACR Trade Exam and Business & Law Exam exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
Do I need a bond for an hvac technician license in New Jersey?
Yes, a $3,000 surety bond is required. $3,000 guarantor/surety bond required. Bond term coincides with the 2-year license period.
How long does it take to get an hvac technician license in New Jersey?
Processing time is typically 4-8 weeks after exam passage after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for hvac technicians in New Jersey?
Yes, 5 hours per every 2 years (biennial renewal cycle) is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: HVACR Board