Illinois HVAC License: How to Get Certified as an HVAC Contractor in IL

To become a certified HVAC contractor in Illinois, you can follow these general steps:

1. Meet the eligibility requirements: To work as an HVAC contractor in Illinois, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED), and have at least four years of experience in the HVAC industry.
2. Obtain the necessary education and training: You must complete a minimum of 48 hours of classroom instruction and at least two years of practical experience in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair.
3. Gain work experience: To become a licensed HVAC contractor in Illinois, you must have at least four years of experience in the HVAC industry.
4. Take the required courses: You must complete the required courses in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair from a recognized HVAC program provider.
5. Pass the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam: You must pass the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam, which covers topics such as HVAC systems, installation, maintenance, and repair, as well as Illinois state laws and regulations.
6. Obtain insurance and a bond: You must obtain liability insurance and a surety bond, which protects your clients in case of property damage or financial loss.
7. Apply for a license: You can apply for an HVAC Contractor License in Illinois by submitting an application form and the required documentation and fees to the Illinois Department of Public Health.
8. Renew your license: HVAC contractor licenses in Illinois must be renewed every three years. You must complete continuing education courses and pay the required fees to maintain your license.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements and process for becoming an HVAC contractor in Illinois may vary depending on your location and other factors. It’s recommended that you check with the Illinois Department of Public Health for the most up-to-date information and guidance.

Requirement to obtain HVAC license in Illinois

To obtain an HVAC Contractor License in Illinois, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Education and training: You must complete a minimum of 48 hours of classroom instruction and at least two years of practical experience in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair.
2. Work experience: You must have at least four years of experience in the HVAC industry.
3. Pass the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam: You must pass the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam, which covers topics such as HVAC systems, installation, maintenance, and repair, as well as Illinois state laws and regulations.
4. Obtain insurance and a bond: You must obtain liability insurance and a surety bond, which protects your clients in case of property damage or financial loss.
5. Apply for a license: You can apply for an HVAC Contractor License in Illinois by submitting an application form and the required documentation and fees to the Illinois Department of Public Health.

It’s recommended that you check with the Illinois Department of Public Health for the most up-to-date information and guidance on the specific requirements and process for obtaining an HVAC Contractor License in Illinois.

Type of HVAC License in Illinois

In Illinois, there are two types of HVAC licenses:

1. HVAC Contractor License: This license allows you to operate as an HVAC contractor in Illinois. To obtain this license, you must meet the education and training requirements, pass the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam, and obtain liability insurance and a surety bond.
2. HVAC Technician License: This license allows you to work as an HVAC technician in Illinois. To obtain this license, you must complete an HVAC training program from a recognized provider, pass the Illinois HVAC Technician Exam, and obtain liability insurance.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements and process for obtaining an HVAC license in Illinois may vary depending on your location and other factors. It’s recommended that you check with the Illinois Department of Public Health for the most up-to-date information and guidance.

Submit Application for Certified HVAC Contractor License in Illinois

To submit an application for a Certified HVAC Contractor License in Illinois, you can follow these steps:

1. Meet the eligibility requirements: Make sure you meet the education and training requirements, work experience requirements, and insurance and bond requirements to become a licensed HVAC contractor in Illinois.
2. Gather the necessary documentation: You will need to provide documentation such as your high school diploma or GED, transcripts from your HVAC training program, proof of work experience, proof of liability insurance, and proof of surety bond.
3. Complete the application form: You can download the application form from the Illinois Department of Public Health website or request it by mail.
4. Submit the application and fees: You can submit the completed application form and the required documentation and fees to the Illinois Department of Public Health by mail or in person.
5. Schedule and take the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam: Once your application has been processed and approved, you will receive information on how to schedule and take the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements and process for submitting an application for a Certified HVAC Contractor License in Illinois may vary depending on your location and other factors. It’s recommended that you check with the Illinois Department of Public Health for the most up-to-date information and guidance.

Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam Detail

The Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam is a computer-based exam that is administered by the Illinois Department of Public Health. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that cover a variety of topics related to HVAC systems, installation, maintenance, and repair. The exam also covers Illinois state laws and regulations related to HVAC work.

The exam is typically held at an approved testing center and you must bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of insurance and bond. You will have four hours to complete the exam and you must score a minimum of 75% to pass.

It’s recommended that you prepare for the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam by reviewing the topics covered on the exam and taking practice tests. The Illinois Department of Public Health provides study materials and practice exams on their website to help you prepare.

Obtain insurance in Illinois for HVAC

To become a licensed HVAC contractor in Illinois, you must obtain liability insurance and a surety bond. Liability insurance protects you and your clients in case of property damage or personal injury caused by your work, while a surety bond ensures that you fulfill your obligations under the contract with your client.

The Illinois Department of Public Health requires HVAC contractors to have liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $500,000 for bodily injury or death, and $250,000 for property damage. The surety bond must be in the amount of $20,000.

It’s recommended that you contact an insurance agent who specializes in HVAC contractor insurance to obtain liability insurance and a surety bond that meets the requirements of the Illinois Department of Public Health. You can also check with your trade association or local business organizations for recommendations on insurance providers.

Cost to get an HVAC license in Illinois

The cost to get an HVAC license in Illinois can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of license you are applying for, the cost of the required exams, the cost of the required education and training courses, and the cost of liability insurance and a surety bond. Here are some general costs to consider:

1. Education and training courses: The cost of HVAC education and training courses in Illinois can vary, but you can expect to pay around $2,000 to $5,000 for a comprehensive HVAC training program.
2. Exam fees: The fee to take the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam is $116, while the fee to take the Illinois HVAC Technician Exam is $60.
3. Insurance and bond: The cost of liability insurance and a surety bond can vary depending on factors such as your business size and location, but you can expect to pay around $1,500 to $2,000 annually for both.
4. License application fee: The application fee for an HVAC Contractor License in Illinois is $150, while the application fee for an HVAC Technician License is $75.

Overall, the total cost to get an HVAC license in Illinois can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on your individual situation. It’s recommended that you budget accordingly and check with the Illinois Department of Public Health for the most up-to-date information on fees and costs.

Steps to Becoming HVAC Professional in Illinois

Here are the general steps to becoming an HVAC professional in Illinois:

1. Meet the eligibility requirements: You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and have completed a minimum of 48 hours of classroom instruction and at least two years of practical experience in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair.
2. Gain work experience: To become a licensed HVAC contractor in Illinois, you must have at least four years of experience in the HVAC industry. To become an HVAC technician, you must complete an HVAC training program and gain practical experience through an apprenticeship or on-the-job training.
3. Complete the required education and training: You must complete a minimum of 48 hours of classroom instruction and at least two years of practical experience in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair.
4. Obtain insurance and a bond: You must obtain liability insurance and a surety bond, which protects your clients in case of property damage or financial loss.
5. Pass the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam or Technician Exam: You must pass the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam or Technician Exam, which covers topics such as HVAC systems, installation, maintenance, and repair, as well as Illinois state laws and regulations.
6. Apply for a license: You can apply for an HVAC Contractor License or Technician License in Illinois by submitting an application form and the required documentation and fees to the Illinois Department of Public Health.
7. Renew your license: HVAC licenses in Illinois must be renewed every three years. You must complete continuing education courses and pay the required fees to maintain your license.

It’s recommended that you check with the Illinois Department of Public Health for the most up-to-date information and guidance on the specific requirements and process for becoming an HVAC professional in Illinois.

Benefits of becoming a Illinois HVAC Professional

Becoming an HVAC professional in Illinois can provide several benefits, including:

1. High demand for skilled professionals: The HVAC industry is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years, creating a strong demand for skilled professionals.
2. Good job prospects: With the growing demand for HVAC professionals, there are good job prospects and opportunities for advancement.
3. Competitive salary: HVAC professionals in Illinois can earn a competitive salary, with an average salary of around $55,000 per year.
4. Flexibility: Many HVAC professionals work independently or for small companies, providing flexibility in scheduling and work arrangements.
5. Job satisfaction: HVAC professionals play an important role in maintaining comfortable and safe indoor environments, which can provide a sense of job satisfaction.
6. Opportunities for specialization: HVAC professionals can specialize in areas such as installation, maintenance, or repair, providing opportunities for career advancement and growth.

Overall, becoming an HVAC professional in Illinois can provide a fulfilling and lucrative career with good job prospects and opportunities for growth.

What is the Mean salary for an HVAC technician in Illinois

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for HVAC technicians in Illinois is $58,940 as of May 2020. However, the salary for an HVAC technician can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and type of employer. HVAC technicians with more experience or specialized skills may earn higher salaries. Additionally, HVAC technicians who work for larger companies or in urban areas may earn higher salaries than those in smaller towns or rural areas.

How to Become HVAC professional in Illinois

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

1. Meet the eligibility requirements: You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and have completed a minimum of 48 hours of classroom instruction and at least two years of practical experience in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair.
2. Gain work experience: To become a licensed HVAC contractor in Illinois, you must have at least four years of experience in the HVAC industry. To become an HVAC technician, you must complete an HVAC training program and gain practical experience through an apprenticeship or on-the-job training.
3. Complete the required education and training: You must complete a minimum of 48 hours of classroom instruction and at least two years of practical experience in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair.
4. Obtain insurance and a bond: You must obtain liability insurance and a surety bond, which protects your clients in case of property damage or financial loss.
5. Pass the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam or Technician Exam: You must pass the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam or Technician Exam, which covers topics such as HVAC systems, installation, maintenance, and repair, as well as Illinois state laws and regulations.
6. Apply for a license: You can apply for an HVAC Contractor License or Technician License in Illinois by submitting an application form and the required documentation and fees to the Illinois Department of Public Health.
7. Renew your license: HVAC licenses in Illinois must be renewed every three years. You must complete continuing education courses and pay the required fees to maintain your license.

It’s recommended that you check with the Illinois Department of Public Health for the most up-to-date information and guidance on the specific requirements and process for becoming an HVAC professional in Illinois.

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

The cost to become an HVAC technician in Illinois can vary depending on several factors, such as the cost of the required education and training courses, the cost of the required exams, and the cost of liability insurance. Here are some general costs to consider:

1. Education and training courses: The cost of HVAC education and training courses in Illinois can vary, but you can expect to pay around $2,000 to $5,000 for a comprehensive HVAC training program.
2. Exam fees: The fee to take the Illinois HVAC Technician Exam is $60.
3. Insurance: Liability insurance is required for HVAC technicians in Illinois, and the cost of liability insurance can vary depending on factors such as your business size and location, but you can expect to pay around $1,000 to $2,000 annually.

Overall, the total cost to become an HVAC technician in Illinois can range from $3,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on your individual situation. It’s recommended that you budget accordingly and check with the Illinois Department of Public Health for the most up-to-date information on fees and costs.

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

The length of time it takes to become an HVAC technician in Illinois can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of training program you choose and your level of experience. Here are some general timelines to consider:

1. HVAC training program: Many HVAC training programs in Illinois can be completed in less than a year, usually requiring around 6-12 months of coursework and hands-on training.
2. Apprenticeship program: An apprenticeship program typically takes around 3-5 years to complete, as you work and learn on-the-job while receiving classroom instruction.
3. On-the-job training: If you have prior experience working in HVAC or a related field, you may be able to obtain on-the-job training and become a qualified HVAC technician in a shorter amount of time.

Overall, it typically takes around 6 months to 5 years to become an HVAC technician in Illinois, depending on your individual situation and chosen path. It’s recommended that you check with your chosen training program or employer for more information on the expected timeline for becoming an HVAC technician.

Illinois HVAC Training programs and schools

There are several HVAC training programs and schools in Illinois that offer education and training for those interested in becoming HVAC professionals. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Coyne College: Located in Chicago, Coyne College offers an HVACR diploma program that can be completed in as little as 42 weeks. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair.
2. Lincoln Technical Institute: With campuses in Melrose Park and East Windsor, Lincoln Technical Institute offers an HVAC/R Technology program that can be completed in as little as 11 months. The program includes classroom instruction, hands-on training, and preparation for EPA certification.
3. Moraine Valley Community College: Located in Palos Hills, Moraine Valley Community College offers an HVACR program that can be completed in two years. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair.
4. Elgin Community College: Located in Elgin, Elgin Community College offers an HVAC/R program that can be completed in two years. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair.
5. College of DuPage: Located in Glen Ellyn, the College of DuPage offers an HVACR program that can be completed in two years. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair.

It’s recommended that you research and compare different HVAC training programs and schools in Illinois to find the best fit for your individual needs and goals.

Illinois Licensing exam details and EPA certification

In Illinois, HVAC professionals must pass the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam or Technician Exam to obtain a license. The exams are administered by the Illinois Department of Public Health and cover topics such as HVAC systems, installation, maintenance, and repair, as well as Illinois state laws and regulations.

The Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of three hours. The exam fee is $116. The Illinois HVAC Technician Exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of two hours. The exam fee is $60.

Additionally, HVAC professionals in Illinois must obtain Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification to handle refrigerants. This certification can be obtained by passing an EPA-approved exam. There are four types of EPA certification: Type I, Type II, Type III, and Universal. The type of certification required depends on the type of refrigerant being handled.

It’s recommended that you check with the Illinois Department of Public Health for the most up-to-date information and guidance on the specific requirements and process for obtaining an HVAC license and EPA certification in Illinois.

Core Exam details in Illinois for HVAC Professional

The Core Exam for HVAC professionals in Illinois is part of the licensing process and covers fundamental knowledge and skills related to HVAC systems, installation, maintenance, and repair. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of three hours. The exam covers the following topics:

1. Safety
2. Tools
3. Basic principles of air conditioning and refrigeration
4. HVAC systems and components
5. HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair
6. Electrical systems and components
7. Controls and control systems
8. Air distribution systems and components
9. Load calculations
10. Duct design

The passing score for the Core Exam is 70%. It’s recommended that you study and prepare for the exam by reviewing the Illinois HVAC licensing laws and regulations, as well as studying HVAC textbooks and materials. You can find more information on the exam, including study materials and practice exams, on the Illinois Department of Public Health website.

Who issues HVAC Licenses in Illinois

In Illinois, HVAC licenses are issued by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). The IDPH is responsible for regulating and overseeing the HVAC industry in Illinois, including issuing licenses, enforcing licensing laws and regulations, and conducting inspections to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.

To obtain an HVAC license in Illinois, you must meet the eligibility requirements and pass the required exams, including the Illinois HVAC Contractor Exam or Technician Exam and the Core Exam. You must also provide proof of liability insurance and a surety bond, which protects your clients in case of property damage or financial loss.

It’s recommended that you check with the Illinois Department of Public Health for the most up-to-date information and guidance on the specific requirements and process for obtaining an HVAC license in Illinois.

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

An HVAC license issued by the state of Illinois only allows you to work as an HVAC professional within the state of Illinois. To work in another state, you would need to obtain a license from that state or meet that state’s requirements for HVAC professionals.

Each state has its own licensing and certification requirements for HVAC professionals, so it’s important to check the specific requirements for the state where you plan to work. Some states may have reciprocity agreements with Illinois that allow HVAC professionals licensed in Illinois to work in those states without additional testing or certification, while others may require additional testing or education.

It’s recommended that you research the specific requirements for the state where you plan to work to determine whether you need additional licensure or certification.

National HVAC Certifications

There are several national HVAC certifications that HVAC professionals can earn to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field. Here are some of the most commonly recognized national HVAC certifications:

1. North American Technician Excellence (NATE): NATE offers certification in various areas of HVAC, including air conditioning, heat pumps, gas furnaces, and commercial refrigeration. NATE certification is recognized by the HVAC industry and is often required by employers.
2. HVAC Excellence: HVAC Excellence offers certification in various areas of HVAC, including air conditioning, heat pumps, gas furnaces, and commercial refrigeration. HVAC Excellence certification is recognized by the HVAC industry and is often required by employers.
3. Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES): RSES offers certification in various areas of HVAC and refrigeration, including air conditioning, heating, commercial refrigeration, and controls. RSES certification is recognized by the HVAC industry and demonstrates a high level of knowledge and expertise.
4. National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI): NOCTI offers certification in various areas of HVAC, including air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration. NOCTI certification is recognized by the HVAC industry and is often required by employers.
5. Building Performance Institute (BPI): BPI offers certification in areas related to building performance, including heating and cooling systems. BPI certification demonstrates knowledge of energy efficiency and sustainable practices.

It’s recommended that HVAC professionals research and consider obtaining national HVAC certifications to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field.

Continuing education and renewal of Illinois license for HVAC

In Illinois, HVAC professionals are required to renew their license every two years and complete continuing education (CE) hours to maintain their license. Here are the requirements for license renewal and continuing education in Illinois:

1. License renewal: HVAC professionals in Illinois must renew their license every two years. The renewal fee is $80 for a two-year license. The renewal period begins 90 days prior to the expiration date of the license.
2. Continuing education: HVAC professionals in Illinois must complete 24 hours of CE every two years. The CE must include a minimum of 4 hours of code and ethics education, and a minimum of 16 hours must be completed in classroom or online courses. The remaining 8 hours can be completed through approved activities such as trade shows or seminars.

It’s important to note that HVAC professionals must complete the required CE hours prior to the expiration date of their license in order to renew their license. Failure to complete the required CE hours may result in a lapse in licensure.

It’s recommended that HVAC professionals in Illinois check with the Illinois Department of Public Health for the most up-to-date information and guidance on license renewal and continuing education requirements.