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HVAC Licensing Guide -- 2025

Texas HVAC License Requirements

Complete guide to HVAC technician and contractor licensing in Texas, regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

State License Required
Yes
Regulating Body
TDLR
EPA 608 Required
Yes
License Types
Technician, Contractor
Renewal Period
1 Year
CE Hours
8 per year

Overview: Texas HVAC Licensing

Texas regulates HVAC through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) under Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1302. Anyone who sells, installs, maintains, services, or repairs HVAC systems in Texas must hold a valid TDLR license. There are two main license categories: HVAC Technician (individual) and HVAC Contractor (business).

Good News for Texas Applicants

Texas has a clear, well-defined licensing path. Online applications, exam scheduling, and license verification are all handled through TDLR at tdlr.texas.gov. Most applications process within 5-10 business days.

Texas HVAC License Types

1. HVAC Technician License (Individual)

Required for any individual who installs, maintains, services, or repairs HVAC systems in Texas. Each field technician must hold their own license.

  • Allows hands-on HVAC installation, service, repair, and maintenance
  • Cannot pull permits without also holding contractor license
  • Unlicensed apprentices may work under direct on-site supervision of a licensed technician

2. HVAC Contractor License (Business)

Any company offering HVAC services must hold an HVAC Contractor license. Required to pull permits and employ technicians.

  • Must designate a licensed technician as the Qualifying Party
  • Only licensed contractors can pull building permits for HVAC work
  • Requires $300,000 general liability insurance and $10,000 surety bond

Eligibility Requirements

Requirement Technician Contractor
Minimum Age 18 years old 18 years old
EPA 608 Certification Required Required via Qualifying Party
Experience None (exam-based) Qualifying Party must be licensed tech
Insurance Not required $300,000 general liability
Bond Not required $10,000 surety bond

The Texas HVAC Licensing Exam

Texas uses PSI Exams for HVAC technician licensing. Available at PSI testing centers across Texas and via remote proctoring online.

Exam Detail Information
Testing Provider PSI Exams Online (psiexams.com)
Format Multiple choice, computer-based
Number of Questions 100 questions
Time Allowed 3 hours
Passing Score 70% (70 of 100 correct)
Exam Fee $74
Retake Policy Wait 24 hours between attempts; unlimited retakes

Exam Content Areas

Topic % of Exam
Safety and EPA Regulations 15%
Tools and Equipment 10%
Refrigeration Fundamentals 20%
Air Conditioning Systems 20%
Heating Systems 15%
System Diagnosis and Repair 15%
Installation and Start-Up 5%
Study Tip

EPA 608 covers 15-20% of the Texas HVAC exam. Our free EPA 608 course directly prepares you for this section covering refrigerant handling, safety, and Section 608 regulations.

Step-by-Step Application Process

  1. Get EPA 608 certification -- Required before applying. Use our free study course then test at an approved center.
  2. Pass the Texas HVAC exam -- Register at psiexams.com, pay $74, pass with 70% or higher.
  3. Apply through TDLR -- Apply online at mylicense.tdlr.texas.gov. Upload EPA 608 certificate and exam results.
  4. Pay license fee -- $46 for initial technician license.
  5. Disclose criminal history -- TDLR reviews case by case.
  6. Receive license -- Typically issued within 5-10 business days.

License Fees (2025)

Fee Type Technician Contractor
Initial Application $46 $230
Annual Renewal $46 $230
PSI Exam Fee $74 N/A
Late Renewal Penalty $69 (1.5x) $345 (1.5x)

Continuing Education (8 Hours per Year)

  • 3 hours: Texas HVAC law and rules (required every renewal)
  • 5 hours: Elective topics (technical skills, new refrigerants, energy efficiency, safety)

CE providers must be TDLR-approved. Available online and in-person. Topics include EPA 608 updates, R-454B and A2L refrigerant safety, and energy codes.

Insurance and Bond Requirements (Contractors)

  • General Liability Insurance: $300,000 minimum per occurrence, filed with TDLR
  • Surety Bond: $10,000 naming TDLR as obligee
  • Workers Compensation: Required if you have employees
Enforcement Warning

Operating an HVAC contracting business in Texas without a license is a Class A misdemeanor -- fines up to $4,000 per violation per day. TDLR actively enforces licensing and conducts field investigations.

Reciprocity

Texas does not have formal reciprocity agreements with other states. Out-of-state technicians must meet all standard Texas requirements: EPA 608 + Texas HVAC exam + TDLR application.

Key Contact Information

Resource Details
TDLR HVAC Program tdlr.texas.gov/hvac | 1-800-803-9202
Online Application mylicense.tdlr.texas.gov
PSI Exam Scheduling psiexams.com | 1-800-367-1565
License Verification tdlr.texas.gov/LicenseSearch

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to work on my own home HVAC in Texas?
Homeowners may perform HVAC work on their own primary residence without a license. But you must own and occupy the home, cannot hire unlicensed help, and the work must pass inspection. Rental and commercial properties require a licensed contractor.
How long does it take to get a Texas HVAC license?
From start to finish, expect 2-4 weeks. EPA 608 study and exam (1-2 weeks), Texas HVAC exam at PSI (schedule when ready), then TDLR application processing (5-10 business days).
Can I work in Texas with just an EPA 608 certification?
No. EPA 608 is required to purchase and handle refrigerants but does not authorize HVAC work for compensation in Texas. You must also hold a valid Texas HVAC Technician license from TDLR. Working without it is a misdemeanor.
What happens if my Texas HVAC license expires?
Late renewal within the grace period costs 1.5x the standard fee ($69 for technicians). After the grace period, the license is cancelled and you must reapply as a new applicant, including retaking the exam.
-- All States Free EPA 608 Course Ask in Forum
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