New Hampshire HVAC License: How to Get Certified as an HVAC Contractor in NH

To become a licensed HVAC contractor in New Hampshire, you must follow these steps:

1. Meet the requirements: To become an HVAC contractor in New Hampshire, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have at least two years of experience as an HVAC technician.
2. Register your business: Before you can apply for an HVAC contractor license in New Hampshire, you must register your business with the Secretary of State’s office.
3. Obtain insurance: You must obtain workers’ compensation insurance and liability insurance before you can apply for an HVAC contractor license in New Hampshire.
4. Pass the exam: You must pass the Business and Law exam and the HVAC trade exam. The exams are administered by PSI.
5. Submit your application: You must submit your application for an HVAC contractor license to the New Hampshire Department of Safety.
6. Pay the fee: There is a fee of $120 for the application and a fee of $200 for the license.
7. Renew your license: Your HVAC contractor license in New Hampshire is valid for one year. You must renew it annually by paying a fee of $200 and completing six hours of continuing education.

Requirement to obtain HVAC license in New Hampshire

To obtain an HVAC license in New Hampshire, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Be at least 18 years of age
2. Have a high school diploma or GED
3. Complete a minimum of 2 years of HVAC education or training (or 4 years of documented on-the-job experience)
4. Pass the required exams (see below)
5. Provide proof of liability insurance

It’s important to note that New Hampshire does not have a state-level HVAC license, but instead, HVAC professionals are required to obtain a Gas Fitters license or a Plumbing license from the state’s Board of Plumbers.

Type of HVAC License in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, there are two types of HVAC licenses:

1. Gas Fitter License: This license is required for individuals who wish to work with gas-fired equipment, including HVAC systems.
2. Plumbing and Heating License: This license is required for individuals who wish to work with plumbing and heating systems, including HVAC systems.

Submit Application for Certified HVAC Contractor License in New Hampshire

To become a certified HVAC contractor in New Hampshire, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Meet the eligibility requirements: To be eligible for a New Hampshire HVAC contractor license, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have at least 4 years of HVAC experience. You will also need to have liability insurance and a surety bond.
2. Complete the application: Once you meet the eligibility requirements, you will need to complete the application for a New Hampshire HVAC contractor license. You can find the application on the New Hampshire Board of Electricians’ and Plumbers’ website.
3. Submit required documents: Along with the application, you will need to submit the required documents, including proof of liability insurance and a surety bond, as well as documentation of your work experience and any relevant certifications or licenses.
4. Pay the application fee: The application fee for a New Hampshire HVAC contractor license is $150.
5. Schedule and pass the exam: Once your application is approved, you will need to schedule and pass the HVAC contractor exam. The exam is administered by a third-party testing agency and covers topics such as heating and cooling systems, refrigeration, ventilation, and electrical theory.
6. Obtain liability insurance and a surety bond: After passing the exam, you will need to obtain liability insurance and a surety bond. The minimum requirements for liability insurance are $100,000 per person and $300,000 per occurrence. The minimum surety bond requirement is $25,000.
7. Receive your HVAC contractor license: Once you have completed all of the above steps and met all of the requirements, you will receive your New Hampshire HVAC contractor license.

New Hampshire HVAC Contractor Exam Detail

In New Hampshire, there is no state exam requirement to become a licensed HVAC contractor. However, applicants must pass an open-book exam covering state laws and regulations, business practices, and trade knowledge. The exam is administered by the New Hampshire Department of Safety and costs $50. The exam is open book, and you can find the books that you will need on the Department of Safety’s website.

Obtain insurance in New Hampshire for HVAC

In New Hampshire, HVAC contractors are required to have general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $100,000 per occurrence and $300,000 aggregate. Workers’ compensation insurance may also be required depending on the number of employees. It is advisable to consult with an insurance agent to determine the appropriate coverage for your specific HVAC business needs.

Cost to get an HVAC license in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, the cost to get an HVAC license may vary depending on the type of license and the licensing agency. For example, the application fee for a gas fitter license is $110, while the application fee for a plumbing and heating license is $170. Additionally, there may be additional fees for exams, background checks, and insurance. It’s best to contact the New Hampshire Board of Licensing for specific information on fees and requirements.

Steps to Becoming HVAC Professional in New Hampshire

To become an HVAC professional in New Hampshire, follow these general steps:

1. Obtain a high school diploma or GED.
2. Consider completing an HVAC certificate or degree program at a trade or technical school, community college, or vocational school.
3. Gain on-the-job training through an apprenticeship or entry-level position with an HVAC company.
4. Obtain the required licensure, which includes passing an exam, meeting experience and education requirements, and submitting an application and fee.
5. Consider obtaining national HVAC certifications, such as those offered by NATE, to demonstrate expertise and advance career opportunities.
6. Participate in continuing education and training to stay up-to-date with the latest technology, techniques, and regulations in the industry.

Benefits of becoming a New Hampshire HVAC Professional

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

1. High Demand: The demand for HVAC professionals is high in New Hampshire due to the extreme temperatures in both winter and summer months.
2. Job Security: HVAC professionals have job security, as heating and cooling systems require routine maintenance, repairs, and replacements.
3. Hands-On Work: HVAC work is hands-on and provides the opportunity to work with a variety of tools and equipment, making the work interesting and engaging.
4. Competitive Salaries: HVAC professionals in New Hampshire can earn a competitive salary, with experienced technicians earning above-average wages.
5. Flexibility: HVAC professionals can work in a variety of settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial settings, providing flexibility in job opportunities.
6. Career Advancement: With continued education and experience, HVAC professionals can advance to higher-paying positions or even start their own HVAC businesses.

What is the Mean salary for an HVAC technician in New Hampshire

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2020, the mean hourly wage for HVAC technicians in New Hampshire was $28.45 and the mean annual wage was $59,160. However, salaries may vary based on factors such as level of experience, location, and employer.

How to Become HVAC professional in New Hampshire

To become an HVAC professional in New Hampshire, follow these steps:

1. Meet the eligibility requirements: You must be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or GED equivalent, and have at least 4 years of practical experience as an HVAC technician.
2. Complete an HVAC training program: While it is not a mandatory requirement in New Hampshire, completing an HVAC training program can improve your chances of getting licensed and finding employment. Look for an accredited program offered by a community college, vocational school, or trade school.
3. Obtain an EPA certification: You must pass the EPA Section 608 certification exam to handle refrigerants.
4. Apply for an HVAC license: Submit an application for a journeyman or master HVAC license to the New Hampshire Department of Safety. You will need to provide proof of work experience and pass a written exam.
5. Pass the HVAC exam: You will need to pass a written exam covering topics such as HVAC design, installation, maintenance, and repair.
6. Obtain liability insurance: You must obtain liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $100,000 per occurrence and $300,000 aggregate.
7. Renew your license: HVAC licenses must be renewed every two years by completing continuing education requirements and paying the renewal fee.

Note that licensing requirements and procedures may change, so it is best to check with the New Hampshire Department of Safety for the most up-to-date information.

How much does it cost to become an HVAC Technician in New Hampshire

The cost of becoming an HVAC technician in New Hampshire varies depending on the school and program you choose. The tuition fees for an HVAC training program can range from $3,000 to $20,000 or more. Additionally, you may need to purchase textbooks, tools, and safety equipment, which can add to the overall cost. It’s best to research different training programs and their associated costs to find the one that fits your budget and career goals.

How long does it take to become an HVAC tech in New Hampshire

The time it takes to become an HVAC technician in New Hampshire can vary based on the individual’s educational background and work experience. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete an HVAC training program. Some programs may also require an apprenticeship or on-the-job training, which can take an additional two to five years. Once the training and apprenticeship requirements have been completed, individuals can apply for licensure and take the required exams, which may take additional time.

New Hampshire HVAC Training programs and schools

There are several HVAC training programs and schools in New Hampshire. Here are some examples:

1. Manchester Community College – offers a one-year HVAC program that covers basic electrical theory, refrigeration, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and environmental control systems.
2. Nashua Community College – offers a two-year HVAC program that covers the installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC systems.
3. White Mountains Community College – offers a two-year HVAC program that covers the fundamentals of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
4. New Hampshire School of Mechanical Trades – offers an HVAC/R technician program that covers HVAC/R fundamentals, basic electricity, refrigeration, and system controls.
5. American Training, Inc. – offers an HVAC technician training program that covers HVAC systems, electrical systems, and basic refrigeration.

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

New Hampshire Licensing exam details and EPA certification

To obtain an HVAC license in New Hampshire, candidates must pass the New Hampshire Gas Fitters and Plumbers Exam, which includes questions related to HVAC systems. The exam is administered by the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office.

In addition, individuals must also obtain Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification to handle refrigerants. The EPA Section 608 certification is required for HVAC technicians who will be working with refrigerants. The certification can be obtained by passing an exam administered by an EPA-approved certifying organization.

Core Exam details in New Hampshire for HVAC Professional

In New Hampshire, HVAC professionals are required to pass the Core Exam, which is administered by the state’s Mechanical Licensing Board. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as:

• Basic principles of electricity and electrical circuits
• Basic principles of refrigeration and air conditioning
• HVAC system components and operation
• Safety practices and procedures
• Environmental regulations

To pass the exam, candidates must answer at least 70% of the questions correctly. The exam fee is $100, and candidates must bring a photo ID and a copy of their exam approval letter to the testing center on the day of the exam.

Who issues HVAC Licenses in New Hampshire

The New Hampshire Board of Electricians and Plumbers issues HVAC licenses in the state of New Hampshire.

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

In general, your New Hampshire HVAC license would only allow you to work in New Hampshire. However, some states have reciprocity agreements or recognize licenses from other states. It is best to check with the licensing board in each state to determine their specific requirements and whether your New Hampshire license can be used to obtain a license in another state.

National HVAC Certifications

There are several nationally recognized HVAC certifications that can help professionals advance their careers and demonstrate their expertise in the field. Here are some of the most well-known HVAC certifications:

1. North American Technician Excellence (NATE) Certification: This certification is widely recognized as the leading HVAC certification in North America. It is an independent, third-party certification that tests technicians’ knowledge of installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC systems.
2. HVAC Excellence Certification: This certification program offers certifications in several areas, including air conditioning, electrical, heat pumps, and green technology. HVAC Excellence is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
3. The Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Association (RETA) Certification: RETA offers several certifications for refrigeration technicians, including the Certified Refrigeration Operator (CRO) and Certified Assistant Refrigeration Operator (CARO) certifications.
4. Building Performance Institute (BPI) Certification: BPI offers certifications for technicians who work on home energy audits and energy efficiency upgrades. These certifications demonstrate that the technician is knowledgeable about energy-saving techniques and technologies.
5. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Section 608 Certification: This certification is required by law for technicians who work with refrigerants. There are four types of EPA Section 608 certifications, depending on the type of equipment the technician works on.

It’s important to note that some states may have their own HVAC certification requirements in addition to these national certifications.

Continuing education and renewal of New Hampshire license for HVAC

In New Hampshire, HVAC technicians are required to complete 15 hours of continuing education every two years to renew their license. The continuing education must be related to the HVAC industry and approved by the state board. The renewal fee for an HVAC license in New Hampshire is $100 per year. Technicians must also maintain liability insurance and submit proof of insurance with their renewal application. Failure to renew the license before the expiration date can result in additional fees and penalties.