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
Master HVAC Exam
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. View full reciprocity details — You may be able to skip the trade exam if you hold a valid license from one of these states.
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 an 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 an hvac technician license cost in Virginia?
The estimated initial cost is $175, including application, exam, and license fees.
What experience do I need for an hvac technician license in Virginia?
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
What exams are required for an hvac technician license in Virginia?
You must pass the Journeyman HVAC Exam and Master HVAC Exam exams. A passing score of Journeyman: 60%; Master: 64% is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
Does Virginia have hvac technician license reciprocity?
Yes, Virginia has reciprocity agreements with 1 state that may apply to hvac technicians. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.
How long does it take to get an hvac technician license in Virginia?
Processing time is typically ~30 days after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for hvac technicians in Virginia?
Yes, 3 hours per 3 years (per renewal cycle) is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DPOR