Alaska’s remoteness is made up for by the state’s reputation for high salaries. HVAC techs in AL make upwards of $30 per hour or $60,600 per year – that’s more than 20% above the national average. Wondering how to become an HVAC tech in Alaska? You’re in the right place.
To work in HVAC, you’ll need to be licensed as a mechanical administrator in AL. This requires you to complete an application, pay all fees, meet experience requirements, then pass an official exam for licensure.
Do You Need an HVAC License in Alaska?
The Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing oversees all mechanical administrators. The regulated categories which count as mechanical admins include:
- Heating, cooling, and process piping (HCPP)
- Mechanical systems temperature control (UHVCS)
- Residential HVAC (RHVAC)
- Residential plumbing and hydronic heating
- Unlimited HVAC/sheet metal (UHVCS)
- Unlimited refrigeration
- And more…
HVAC Tech Requirements
Depending on the category of your license (see above), you’ll have to fulfill certain work experience requirements. HVAC-related work experience can be completed during an apprenticeship or through another HVAC training program.
We’ll discuss the requirements for HCPP, RHVAC, and UHVCS categories below. For information on other category requirements, see the application.
HCPP License Requirements
HCPP license applicants must have ONE of the following:
- 4 years of recent journeyman HVAC experience
- 4 years of construction management experience in HCPP
- A mechanical engineering degree
- Registration as a professional mechanical engineer plus a year of management experience
RHVAC License Requirements
To become a residential HVAC tech, you’ll need at least 2 years of journeyman HVAC experience in residential settings. This must be done within the last 4 years. Each year must include at least 1,500 hours of work.
UHVCS License Requirements
Unlimited HVAC workers will need to fulfill ONE of these requirements to apply for a license:
- Have 4 years of experience as a journeyman in HVAC work during the last 6 years
- Have 4 years of management experience in HVAC in the last 6 years
- Hold a degree in mechanical engineering
- Be registered as a state mechanical engineer
Applying for Your Alaska HVAC License
If you meet the requirements for your mechanical administrator license, you’ll need to complete the application for examination. You’ll then verify your work experience and submit three Certificates of Support. These are filled in by current or previous supervisors who recommend you for this license.
There is a $150 application fee plus a $200 licensing fee. Sign and notarize the application before submission.
Taking the HVAC Exam
Once your application and documentation are approved, you’ll be instructed on how to schedule your Mechanical Administrator License exam. This exam is given and scheduled through PSI.
Once you receive a passing score, you will submit it to the Division and receive your license.
Reciprocal Licenses
If you are licensed in a similar position in another state, you may be able to apply for a license through credentials. You’ll need to complete the same license application and instructions, but also include transcripts, verification of your active out-of-state license, and verification of the exam you passed in another state.
