Georgia HVAC License: How to Get Certified as an HVAC Contractor in GA

To get certified as an HVAC contractor in Georgia, follow these steps:

1. Meet the requirements: To qualify for a HVAC contractor license in Georgia, you must be at least 21 years of age, have a high school diploma or GED, and have at least two years of experience in HVAC work.
2. Obtain liability insurance: You’ll need to obtain liability insurance coverage in the amount of $500,000 for property damage and $500,000 for bodily injury.
3. Pass the Georgia Business and Law Exam: All applicants for a HVAC contractor license in Georgia must pass the Business and Law exam. This exam covers topics such as business management, contracts, labor laws, and safety regulations.
4. Pass the HVAC trade exam: Applicants must also pass the HVAC trade exam. This exam covers topics such as heat transfer, electrical principles, refrigeration, and ventilation.
5. Submit your application: Once you’ve met all the requirements, you can submit your application to the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board.
6. Pay the fees: You’ll need to pay a fee to take the Business and Law exam and another fee to take the HVAC trade exam. You’ll also need to pay a fee when you submit your license application.
7. Renew your license: HVAC contractor licenses in Georgia must be renewed every two years. You’ll need to complete continuing education courses and pay a renewal fee to keep your license current.

Requirement to obtain HVAC license in Georgia

In Georgia, a person must meet the following requirements to obtain an HVAC license:

1. Be at least 18 years old.
2. Have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
3. Complete an approved HVAC program or have at least 3 years of experience in the HVAC field.
4. Pass the state HVAC exam.
5. Obtain liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance (if applicable).

Type of HVAC License in Georgia

In Georgia, there are two types of HVAC licenses: Class II and Class I. Class II is for residential contractors, while Class I is for commercial contractors.

Submit Application for Certified HVAC Contractor License in Georgia

To submit an application for a certified HVAC contractor license in Georgia, follow these steps:

1. Meet the eligibility requirements: To apply for a certified HVAC contractor license in Georgia, you must be at least 21 years of age, have a valid Social Security number, and have at least two years of experience in HVAC work. You will also need to provide evidence of financial responsibility and insurance coverage.
2. Obtain a trade name registration: If you plan to operate your business under a trade name, you will need to register it with the Georgia Secretary of State’s office.
3. Complete the application: You can download the HVAC contractor license application from the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board (SCILB) website. Fill out the application completely and accurately.
4. Submit the application and fee: Once you have completed the application, submit it to the SCILB along with the required fee. As of 2022, the application fee for a certified HVAC contractor license is $200.
5. Pass the trade exam: After your application has been processed and approved, you will need to pass the trade exam administered by PSI. The exam will test your knowledge of HVAC codes, regulations, and best practices.
6. Obtain insurance and bonding: Before your license can be issued, you will need to provide proof of general liability insurance and a surety bond.
7. Receive your license: Once you have completed all the steps above and met all the requirements, you will be issued a certified HVAC contractor license in Georgia. Your license will need to be renewed every two years.

Georgia HVAC Contractor Exam Detail

To become a licensed HVAC contractor in Georgia, you must pass the Georgia Business and Law exam and the trade exam for the type of license you are seeking. The exams are administered by the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board.

The trade exam consists of 115 questions and you must answer at least 70% correctly to pass. The exam covers topics such as:

• HVAC design and installation
• Maintenance and repair of HVAC systems
• Safety regulations and procedures
• Environmental protection
• Electrical systems and controls

The Georgia Business and Law exam consists of 50 questions and you must answer at least 70% correctly to pass. The exam covers topics such as:

• Georgia laws and regulations related to construction
• Business and financial management practices
• Estimating and bidding
• Contracts and project management
• Labor laws and regulations

You can find more information about the exams, including study materials and scheduling, on the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board website.

Obtain insurance in Georgia for HVAC

In Georgia, HVAC contractors are required to carry a minimum amount of insurance coverage. The minimum insurance requirements for HVAC contractors include:

1. General liability insurance: This insurance policy provides coverage for bodily injury and property damage that may occur during the course of HVAC work.
2. Workers’ compensation insurance: This insurance policy provides coverage for medical expenses and lost wages in case an employee is injured on the job.
3. Bonding: Bonding is required for contractors who hold a license with the state of Georgia. The bonding amount varies based on the license classification.

It’s important for HVAC contractors to obtain the required insurance coverage to protect themselves, their employees, and their customers.

Cost to get an HVAC license in Georgia

In Georgia, the cost to obtain an HVAC license varies depending on the type of license and the county where you plan to work. The application fee for a Class II (non-restricted) license is $200, while the fee for a Class I (restricted) license is $75. In addition to the application fee, you will also need to pay an examination fee and a criminal background check fee. The total cost to obtain an HVAC license in Georgia can range from $400 to $800.

Steps to Becoming HVAC Professional in Georgia

To become an HVAC professional in Georgia, you will typically need to follow these steps:

1. Meet the eligibility requirements: In Georgia, you must have a minimum of four years of practical experience as an HVAC technician or a degree in HVAC technology from an accredited school.
2. Submit an application: You will need to submit an application to the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board along with the required fees and documentation.
3. Pass the trade exam: You will need to pass the Georgia HVAC Contractor License Exam. The exam is based on the National Electrical Code and includes questions on electrical theory, materials, and techniques.
4. Obtain liability insurance: You must obtain liability insurance coverage in the amount of at least $500,000.
5. Obtain a bond: You will need to obtain a surety bond in the amount of $25,000.
6. Renew your license: HVAC licenses in Georgia must be renewed every two years. You will need to complete continuing education requirements and submit a renewal application along with the required fees.

It is important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the county or city in which you plan to work. It is recommended that you check with your local jurisdiction to ensure that you are meeting all of the necessary requirements to become an HVAC professional in Georgia.

Benefits of becoming a Georgia HVAC Professional

Becoming a Georgia HVAC professional comes with several benefits, including:

1. Job security: HVAC systems are essential in both residential and commercial buildings, ensuring that there is always a demand for qualified HVAC technicians.
2. Competitive salaries: HVAC technicians in Georgia earn an average salary of $47,000 per year, which is higher than the average salary for many other professions.
3. Career growth opportunities: With additional certifications and experience, HVAC technicians can advance to become HVAC supervisors or even HVAC business owners.
4. Fulfilling work: HVAC technicians have the satisfaction of knowing that they are making a difference by ensuring that buildings are comfortable and safe.
5. Hands-on work: HVAC work involves working with your hands, diagnosing problems, and finding solutions, which is ideal for those who enjoy hands-on work.

What is the Mean salary for an HVAC technician in Georgia

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for HVAC technicians in Georgia as of May 2020 was $50,830. The lowest 10 percent of HVAC technicians in Georgia earned less than $29,840 per year, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $76,690 per year. The actual salary may vary based on various factors such as experience, location, education, and employer.

How to Become HVAC professional in Georgia

To become an HVAC professional in Georgia, you can follow these steps:

1. Complete your high school education or equivalent: To become an HVAC technician, you need to have at least a high school diploma or an equivalent degree.
2. Get HVAC training: You can enroll in an HVAC training program offered by vocational schools, community colleges, or technical institutes in Georgia. Some popular schools in Georgia offering HVAC training include Atlanta Technical College, Chattahoochee Technical College, and Ogeechee Technical College.
3. Gain experience: After completing your HVAC training, you can start gaining experience by working as an apprentice with a licensed HVAC contractor. This will help you get a better understanding of the industry and learn more about the trade.
4. Obtain EPA certification: As an HVAC technician, you need to be certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to handle refrigerants. You can obtain EPA certification by passing an exam administered by an EPA-approved organization.
5. Obtain your Georgia HVAC license: To obtain your Georgia HVAC license, you need to pass the Georgia HVAC contractor exam. You also need to meet the requirements set by the Georgia Board of Conditioned Air Contractors, which include a minimum of two years of HVAC experience.
6. Renew your license: Your Georgia HVAC license needs to be renewed every two years. You need to complete continuing education courses to renew your license.
7. Consider getting additional certifications: To enhance your skills and expertise, you can consider getting additional certifications from professional organizations such as the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) or the HVAC Excellence Certification Program.

Overall, becoming an HVAC professional in Georgia requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to ongoing education and training.

How much does it cost to become an HVAC Technician in Georgia

The cost of becoming an HVAC technician in Georgia can vary depending on the school and program you choose. According to data from the College Scorecard, the average annual cost of tuition and fees for HVAC programs in Georgia is around $3,700 for in-state students and $6,700 for out-of-state students. However, some programs may be more expensive or less expensive than this average.

Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with becoming an HVAC technician, such as the cost of tools and equipment needed for the job. It’s a good idea to research different programs and schools to find one that fits your budget and career goals.

How long does it take to become an HVAC tech in Georgia

The path to becoming an HVAC technician in Georgia typically takes 6 months to 2 years, depending on the type of program or training you choose. Trade schools and community colleges may offer certificate or diploma programs that can be completed in as little as 6 months, while associate degree programs may take up to 2 years to complete. Apprenticeships are also an option, and typically take 3-5 years to complete, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Georgia HVAC Training programs and schools

There are many HVAC training programs and schools in Georgia. Here are a few examples:

1. Atlanta Technical College – HVAC Technology Program: This program offers an associate degree and diploma in HVAC technology, as well as an HVAC apprenticeship program.
2. Chattahoochee Technical College – Air Conditioning Technology Program: This program offers an associate degree and diploma in air conditioning technology, as well as HVAC certificates.
3. Gwinnett Technical College – Air Conditioning Technology Program: This program offers an associate degree and diploma in air conditioning technology, as well as HVAC certificates.
4. Georgia Piedmont Technical College – Air Conditioning Technology Program: This program offers an associate degree and diploma in air conditioning technology, as well as HVAC certificates.
5. Georgia Northwestern Technical College – Air Conditioning Technology Program: This program offers an associate degree and diploma in air conditioning technology, as well as HVAC certificates.

These are just a few examples of HVAC training programs and schools in Georgia. It’s important to research and compare programs to find one that best fits your needs and goals.

Georgia Licensing exam details and EPA certification

In Georgia, individuals seeking to become HVAC professionals must pass the Georgia Business and Law exam as well as the HVAC/R exam. The Georgia Business and Law exam is a separate exam from the HVAC/R exam and covers topics such as business management, finance, and state laws and regulations.

EPA Section 608 certification is also required for HVAC professionals in Georgia who handle refrigerants. This certification is issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and involves passing an exam on the safe handling and disposal of refrigerants.

The Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board administers the licensing exams and oversees the HVAC licensing process in the state of Georgia.

Core Exam details in Georgia for HVAC Professional

In Georgia, HVAC professionals are required to pass two exams to obtain a license: a business and law exam and a trade-specific exam. The trade-specific exam will cover topics such as heat transfer principles, refrigeration systems, and electrical components of HVAC systems. The business and law exam will cover topics such as labor laws, contracts, and business regulations.

Additionally, HVAC professionals are required to obtain EPA Section 608 certification, which covers handling refrigerants and understanding the regulations related to them.

Who issues HVAC Licenses in Georgia

In Georgia, HVAC licenses are issued by the State Construction Industry Licensing Board.

Does my Georgia registration allow me to work in any other state?

Your Georgia HVAC license is only valid in the state of Georgia. If you want to work in another state, you’ll need to check that state’s requirements for obtaining an HVAC license and meet their qualifications. Some states have reciprocal agreements with Georgia, which means that they will recognize your Georgia license and allow you to work there without having to take additional exams or meet additional requirements. It’s always best to check with the licensing board in the state where you want to work to determine what their requirements are for obtaining an HVAC license.

National HVAC Certifications

There are several national HVAC certifications available for HVAC professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. Here are some examples:

1. North American Technician Excellence (NATE) Certification: This certification is designed to test an individual’s knowledge in areas such as installation, maintenance, and service of HVAC systems.
2. HVAC Excellence Certification: This certification is offered by the HVAC Excellence program, which is a non-profit organization that provides training and testing for HVAC professionals. The certification covers a wide range of topics, including electrical and mechanical theory, air conditioning systems, heating systems, and more.
3. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certification: This certification is required by the U.S. federal government for anyone who handles refrigerants. It covers the safe handling and disposal of refrigerants, as well as the regulations surrounding their use.
4. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Certification: This certification is offered by the ASHRAE organization and covers a variety of HVAC topics, including energy efficiency, ventilation, refrigeration, and more.
5. Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) Certification: This certification covers a wide range of HVAC topics, including installation, maintenance, and service of HVAC systems.

It’s important to note that certification requirements may vary by state, so it’s important to check with your local licensing board to determine which certifications are required or recommended for HVAC professionals in your area.

Continuing education and renewal of Georgia license for HVAC

In Georgia, HVAC professionals are required to renew their licenses every two years. To be eligible for license renewal, they must complete eight hours of continuing education courses in each renewal period. These courses must be approved by the state licensing board and may cover topics such as refrigerant handling, electrical codes, and HVAC system design. Additionally, some HVAC certifications may require continuing education to maintain certification status. It is important for HVAC professionals in Georgia to stay current with industry changes and advancements through ongoing education and training.