HVAC Technician License Requirements in Virginia
| Licensing Authority | Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors — Tradesmen Program (DPOR) |
| License Type | Journeyman / Master HVAC (Tradesman License) |
| Experience Required | Journeyman: 4 years practical experience + 240 hours formal vocational training (sliding scale up to 10 years experience with no formal training). Master: 1 year as licensed VA journeyman, or 10 years verified practical experience. |
| Education Substitute | 2 years practical experience + associate degree or certificate from accredited program qualifies for journeyman |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman HVAC Exam + Master HVAC Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 3 hours 3 years (per renewal cycle) |
| Processing Time | ~30 days |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Exam Fee | $100 |
| Master exam fee | $125 |
| Est. Initial Total | $300 |
Renewal: $90 every 3 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyman HVAC Exam
85 questions210 minutes (3.5 hours)Pass: Journeyman: 60%; Master: 64%
International Mechanical Code (IMC)HVAC systems design and installationRefrigeration fundamentalsDuctwork and airflowVirginia HVAC regulations
Master HVAC Exam
85 questions210 minutes (3.5 hours)Pass: Journeyman: 60%; Master: 64%
International Mechanical Code (IMC)Advanced HVAC system designEnergy efficiency codesLoad calculationsVirginia HVAC regulations
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
Journeyman HVAC
4 yrs experience + 240 hrs training; OR 5 yrs + 160 hrs; OR 6 yrs + 80 hrs; OR 7 yrs + 40 hrs; OR 10 yrs verified; OR 2 yrs + associate degree
Exam: Required
Master HVAC
1 year as licensed VA journeyman; OR 10 years verified practical experience
Exam: Required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 1 state. You may be able to skip the trade exam if you hold a valid license from one of these states.
marylandReciprocity for master electrician and journeyman/master HVAC license examinations
Notes
- HVAC has the most flexible experience pathways of any VA trade — ranges from 4 years + 240 hours training down to 10 years experience with verified affidavit only
- Tradesman license is for individuals; to operate an HVAC business, a separate Class A/B/C contractor license with HVA specialty is also required
- EPA Section 608 certification also required for handling refrigerants (federal requirement, separate from DPOR)
- CE must focus on mechanical code updates
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a hvac technician license in Virginia?
Yes, Virginia requires a statewide hvac technician license through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors — Tradesmen Program.
How much does a hvac technician license cost in Virginia?
The estimated initial cost is $175, including application, exam, and license fees.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DPOR