Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians install, fix, and maintain different systems that heat or cool closed spaces. In Alabama, these same job duties fall under the scope of HVAC contractors.
To become an HVAC tech (contractor) in Alabama, you’ll need to have completed an apprenticeship or 3,000 hours of Board-approved HVAC coursework. Next, you’ll need to register your business, hold a performance bond, submit an application, and pass the official HVAC Contractors Exam.
Let’s dissect each step further.
- Gain Sufficient HVAC Experience
Alabama code requires HVAC contractor applicants to have completed ONE of the following:
- A registered HVAC apprenticeship
- 3,000 hours of HVAC course work which must be approved by the Board
Registered apprenticeships in Alabama are overseen by the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship. They offer a registry of apprenticeships that have earn-and-learn models. There is also a registry offered by the U.S. Department of Labor.
In apprenticeships, HVAC students will learn both in the classroom and on the field. You will be paid for your work experience and also have the potential to earn college credit.
If you prefer not to take on the apprenticeship route, you could find an HVAC tech to take you under their wing unofficially. Your best bet is to make sure you’re supervised by a licensed HVAC tech/contractor so that your work experience will count towards the licensing requirements.
- Create Your Business in Alabama
HVAC contractors will need to create a business entity under which they perform contracting work. You should complete this step even if you plan to work as a sole proprietor without employees.
Creating your own business in AL requires getting a federal Employer’s Identification Number (EIN), paying certain taxes, and potentially paying into unemployment. Check out this full guide on the process.
Once your application is approved in the following step, your business will also need to hold a $15,000 performance bond while your license is active.
- Apply for an HVAC License
Once you have the proper work experience and your business is up and running, you can apply for an HVAC license through examination. This means your application will need to be approved before you take the final HVAC Contractor Exam.
You can apply via mail or online. Online applications are expedited.
With your application, be sure to include:
- Signed and notarized affidavits by your employers attesting to your HVAC experience over at least the last two years and/or
- Copies of certificates to prove 3,000 hours of HVAC training or
- Proof of graduation from an HVAC program*
- The $150 exam fee
*Approved curriculums are listed on page 1 of the application.
- Pass the HVAC Contractor Exam
Once your application is approved, you’ll be able to take the Heating and Air Conditioning Contractors Examination. There is also a Refrigeration Contractors Examination if you plan to do HVAC-R work.
You must pass this exam to receive your license. Once you pass, you’ll show proof of your performance bond and pay a $190 fee to activate your license.
For more information on HVAC reciprocity, examination, and licensing in Alabama, see here.
