Becoming a licensed HVAC tech in Texas is a smart move for anyone considering a career in the trades. Blazing hot summers and a booming population mean there’s no shortage of demand for heating and cooling pros across the state. That said, before you can legally install or repair HVAC systems in Texas, you’ll need the license from the state.

We’ve created the following guide that breaks down exactly how to become an HVAC technician in Texas. It takes time and effort, but those that stick with it typically have a stable career and high earning power.

1. Know the Types of Texas HVAC Licenses

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) oversees HVAC licensing. Here are the two types of HVAC licenses they grant:

• Class A License: Work on any size system (residential, commercial, or industrial)
• ‍Class B License: Work on smaller systems only (up to 25 tons cooling and 1.5 million BTUs heating)

You’ll also choose one or both of these endorsements:

• Environmental Air Conditioning (most common for home and business HVAC)
• Commercial Refrigeration and Process Heating/Cooling

2. Meet the Initial Requirements

To apply for a Texas HVAC license with the TDLR, you need to:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Be legally eligible to work in the U.S.
• Pass a background check (TDLR reviews each applicant individually)

3. Get Experience or Education

Before applying for a license, you’ll need to get hands-on HVAC experience. You can choose from two options. Most choose option 2:

Option 1: On-the-Job Experience

Work under a licensed HVAC contractor for at least 4 years (48 months).

Option 2: Education + Experience

• Graduate from an accredited HVAC program or trade school
• Then get at least 1 year of work experience in HVAC

4. Register as a Technician or Apprentice

While you’re gaining experience, you must register with TDLR as either a:

• Registered Technician or
• Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) Apprentice

This lets you legally work under a licensed contractor while building your hours.

5. Apply for an HVAC Contractor License

Once your experience is verified, you’re eligible to apply for your license. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Submit the application through TDLR website
• Pay the fee (about $115)
• Choose your license class and endorsement(s)
• Provide proof of experience and/or education
• Pass a background check

6. Pass the Texas HVAC License Exam

Next up is the licensing exam, run by PSI Testing. It has two parts:

• Business and Law
• HVAC Trade Knowledge

You’ll need at least 70% on each section to pass. Exam prep classes are widely available and highly recommended. Most HVAC programs or schools can assist with finding you exam training.

7. Get Liability Insurance and Activate Your License

Before your license is official, you need to show proof of liability insurance of the following:

• $300,000 per occurrence
• $600,000 aggregate
• $300,000 for products/completed operations

Once you show proof, your license is active and you can legally work on HVAC systems in Texas!

8. Keep Up with Continuing Education Requirements

To stay licensed, you need 8 hours of continuing education each year. Topics usually cover things like:

• Code updates
• Safety
• Energy efficiency
• Business practices

Courses must be approved by TDLR and can be taken online or in-person. If you want flexibility, just take them online.

How to Increase Your HVAC Salary in Texas

Once you’re licensed, there are plenty of ways to boost your income over time. Generally, more experience, more skills, and more responsibility = higher earnings potential.

• Specialize in high-demand areas like commercial refrigeration, VRF systems, or energy efficiency consulting.
• Add certifications (like EPA Section 608, NATE, or LEED) to show advanced skills and open up higher-paying opportunities.
• Get dual endorsements on your license to work in both air conditioning and refrigeration.
• Move into sales or project management, especially if you’re good with customers and communication.
• Start your own business as a licensed contractor once you’ve built enough experience and contacts.

It’s not rocket science, you just need to put in the time and effort to make yourself an attractive worker. And if you’re a professional in the HVAC industry, you’re already off to a great start.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a licensed HVAC technician in Texas takes some time and training, but it opens the door to a rewarding career. Unlike many other industries, AI isn’t replacing HVAC technicians any time soon, and HVAC pros will be in-demand for quite a long time.

The “Too Long, Didn’t Read” Recap:

• Enroll & complete an HVAC program or school
• Get 1-2 years of work experience
• Apply to TDLR, pass the exam, and get insured
• Enhance your skills, certifications, and specialization to increase your income

Ready to get going? Go to TDLR’s HVAC page to begin and go to their application page to apply for a contractor license if you’re ready.

TradeRunner Lets HVAC Jobs Come to You 🚀

With TradeRunner, licensed HVAC techs can create a free profile and get matched directly with open positions at verified employers. TradeRunner is the easiest way for licensed HVAC techs in TX to match with full-time job opportunities. No applications, resumes, or job posts involved.

Here’s how it works:

✅ Fill out a short profile with your skills, certifications, & preferences

✅ Get matched with full-time jobs from verified employers in real-time

✅ Interview, message, and get hired all within TradeRunner

✅ Get notified via text of job opportunities simply by having a profile

TradeRunner puts you in front of verified employers and lets the right opportunities come to you.

👉 Create a profile here – completely free for HVAC techs of all skill levels.

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