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
50 questions2 hours 10 minutes (130 minutes)Pass: 70%
Heating systemsVentilationAir conditioningRefrigerationNJ Mechanical Code
Business & Law Exam
50 questions2 hours 10 minutes (130 minutes)Pass: 70%
NJ HVACR laws and regulationsBusiness managementContracts
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 a 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 a hvac technician license cost in New Jersey?
The estimated initial cost is $231, including application, exam, and license fees.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: HVACR Board