How to Become an HVAC Tech in Minnesota

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians in Minnesota make an average of $27.55 per hour, which is 8% higher than the national average. With average projected growth in the U.S. through this decade, HVAC techs can find plenty of opportunities in the land of 10,000 lakes.

To become an HVAC tech, you’ll need to receive the proper training and follow your local licensing regulations. Let’s dive into the process below.

Do You Need an HVAC Tech Certification in Minnesota?

Minnesota does not require an HVAC tech certificate or license at the state level. Instead, HVAC local licensing requirements differ by municipality.

While they don’t need licensing, HVAC technicians do need to be trained and advanced techs can apply for a mechanical contractor license. There are 6 types of mechanical licenses in MN: 

  • Refrigeration systems installer
  • Gas fitter
  • Oil burner installer
  • HVAC class A
  • HVAC class B
  • Steam and hot water systems installer

Becoming an HVAC Tech in Minnesota

To become a qualified HVAC tech, you’ll need the right training and certifications.

  1. Get Trained

To become an HVAC tech, you can attend a technical or community college or trade school to prepare you for certification exams. An alternative route is to become an apprentice through a union or an entry-level position with a sponsoring employer.

  1. Consider Additional Certifications

The EPA 608 certificate is required for techs handling refrigerants. There are four certificate types, each with its own exam. Type I is for servicing small appliances, type II is for high-pressure appliances, type III is for low-pressure appliances, and the Universal certificate is for all types of equipment. 

Another useful certificate is through North American Technician Excellence (NATE). This is the largest non-profit certification organization for HVAC-Refrigeration (HVAC-R) technicians and offers real-world training and experience. 

Areas of study include HVAC fundamentals, comfort and airflow, installation, electrical and controls, service, low GWP refrigerants, HVAC performance verifier, and ground source heat pump installer. 

Become an HVAC Contractor in MN

If you’d like to advance your HVAC career and become an HVAC contractor, it’s time to make sure you meet the requirements for completing contractor work in Minnesota.

Requirements

Minnesota has bond requirements for mechanical contractors who install air conditioning, ventilation, gas piping, heating, fuel burning, cooling, or refrigeration equipment. You must file a $25,000 mechanical contractor bond with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI). Contractors are also subject to local licensing requirements determined by the municipality.

Application Process

  1. Choose a business structure.
  2. Contact the Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State by phone at 651-296-2803 to get information relating to your new business registration. 
  3. Gather relevant information for the application such as tax ID and employment insurance, your legal business name depending on your business type, physical address, mailing address, and Minnesota registered agent. 
  4. Complete the application
  5. Complete the Minnesota Secretary of State Registration
  6. Complete the Disclosure of Business Owners, Partners, Officers, and Members Form
  7. Complete the Mechanical Bond Form and get it notarized by a Surety Company with the Power of Attorney form. 
  8. Complete the Worker’s Compensation Certification of Compliance form
  9. Send the application and all forms by mail to DLI or upload them online. You will be required to pay a $100 initial mechanical bond application which can be done by credit card online, check, or money order. For more information and to access each form, click here

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