Washington HVAC License: How to Get Certified as an HVAC Contractor in WA

To become a certified HVAC contractor in Washington (WA), you must follow certain requirements and procedures. Here are the steps you need to take to obtain an HVAC license in WA:

1. Meet the requirements: To be eligible for an HVAC contractor license in Washington, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have at least four years of experience in the HVAC industry. You also need a Washington state business license.
2. Obtain liability insurance: You must have liability insurance coverage for property damage and personal injury with a minimum coverage of $50,000.
3. Complete the application: Fill out the HVAC contractor license application and submit it along with the application fee. You can download the application from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries website.
4. Take the exam: After your application has been processed, you will be scheduled to take the HVAC contractor exam. The exam is divided into two parts: the business and law exam and the trade exam. You must pass both exams to obtain your HVAC contractor license.
5. Renew your license: Your HVAC contractor license must be renewed every two years. You will be required to complete continuing education courses and pay a renewal fee to maintain your license.
6. Obtain EPA certification: In addition to obtaining an HVAC contractor license in Washington, you will also need to obtain EPA certification to handle refrigerants. The EPA requires that all HVAC technicians who work with refrigerants must pass a certification exam.

By following these steps, you can become a certified HVAC contractor in Washington and work in the HVAC industry with confidence.

Requirement to obtain HVAC license in Washington

To obtain an HVAC contractor license in Washington state, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
2. Education: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
3. Experience: You must have at least four years of experience working in the HVAC industry. This experience must include at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training.
4. Liability insurance: You must carry liability insurance coverage for property damage and personal injury with a minimum coverage of $50,000.
5. Business license: You must obtain a Washington state business license.
6. Exam: You must pass the HVAC contractor exam, which consists of two parts: the business and law exam and the trade exam.
7. EPA certification: You must obtain EPA certification to handle refrigerants.

It’s important to note that these requirements may change over time, so it’s best to check with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries for the most up-to-date information.

Type of HVAC License in Washington

In Washington State, there are two types of HVAC licenses:

1. HVAC/R Specialty Contractor License: This license allows you to install, repair, and maintain heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
2. HVAC/R Administrator License: This license allows you to supervise the work of HVAC/R specialty contractors.

You must have a specialty contractor license to perform HVAC work in Washington State. The administrator license is for those who want to supervise HVAC work but do not perform the work themselves.

Submit Application for Certified HVAC Contractor License in Washington

To apply for an HVAC contractor license in Washington State, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Meet the eligibility requirements: Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements, which include being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and having at least four years of HVAC experience.
2. Obtain liability insurance: You will need to obtain liability insurance coverage for property damage and personal injury with a minimum coverage of $50,000.
3. Obtain EPA certification: You will need to obtain EPA certification to handle refrigerants.
4. Pass the HVAC contractor exam: You will need to pass the HVAC contractor exam, which consists of two parts: the business and law exam and the trade exam.
5. Submit the application: You can submit your application online or by mail. The application fee is $146. You will need to provide information about your education, experience, insurance, and EPA certification.
6. Wait for approval: After submitting your application, it may take up to six weeks to receive approval.
7. Renew your license: Your HVAC contractor license must be renewed every two years. To renew your license, you must complete continuing education requirements and pay a renewal fee.

Washington HVAC Contractor Exam Detail

The HVAC contractor exam in Washington State consists of two parts: the business and law exam and the trade exam.

The business and law exam covers topics such as business management, labor laws, contract requirements, and safety regulations. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and you will have 120 minutes to complete it. The passing score for this exam is 70%.

The trade exam covers topics related to heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and you will have 240 minutes to complete it. The passing score for this exam is also 70%.

Both exams are administered by PSI Services LLC. You can register for the exams online through the PSI website or by phone. The fee for each exam is $68. Once you pass both exams and your application is approved, you will receive your HVAC contractor license in Washington State.

Obtain insurance in Washington for HVAC

To operate as an HVAC contractor in Washington State, it is important to have insurance coverage. You will need both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.

General liability insurance provides protection in case you or your employees cause property damage or bodily injury while on a job site. Workers’ compensation insurance is required by law in Washington State and provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their work.

There are many insurance providers in Washington that offer coverage for HVAC contractors. To obtain insurance, you can contact an insurance broker or provider and request a quote. Be sure to shop around and compare policies and prices to find the best coverage for your business at a reasonable cost.

Cost to get an HVAC license in Washington

The cost of getting an HVAC license in Washington State varies depending on the type of license you are applying for and the licensing agency.

The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) issues HVAC contractor licenses in Washington. The cost of an HVAC contractor license application is $123 for a two-year license. However, additional fees may apply depending on the scope of work you are licensed to perform.

If you are applying for an electrical contractor license from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, the application fee is $110. However, additional fees may apply depending on the type and scope of electrical work you are licensed to perform.

It is important to note that these costs are subject to change, so it is best to check with the appropriate licensing agency for the most up-to-date information on licensing fees.

Steps to Becoming HVAC Professional in Washington

Here are the steps to become an HVAC professional in Washington:

1. Meet the requirements: You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
2. Obtain HVAC education and training: Attend an HVAC training program at a technical or vocational school, community college, or through an apprenticeship program. You can also gain on-the-job training by working as an HVAC apprentice under a licensed contractor.
3. Obtain an EPA certification: As per federal law, you must pass the EPA Section 608 certification exam to handle refrigerants. The certification is issued by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
4. Complete the required work experience: To obtain a contractor’s license, you must have at least four years of HVAC experience working under a licensed contractor.
5. Apply for a contractor’s license: Apply for an HVAC contractor license from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). You will need to submit an application, pay the application fee, and provide proof of insurance and surety bond.
6. Pass the required exams: You must pass the core and specialty exams administered by L&I to obtain a contractor’s license.
7. Obtain insurance and surety bond: You will need to provide proof of general liability insurance and a surety bond to obtain a contractor’s license in Washington.
8. Renew your license: HVAC contractor licenses in Washington are valid for two years. You will need to renew your license every two years and complete continuing education requirements to maintain your license.

Benefits of becoming a Washington HVAC Professional

Becoming an HVAC professional in Washington can have several benefits, including:

1. Job security: HVAC professionals are always in demand, and as long as people continue to need heating and cooling systems, there will be a need for HVAC technicians.
2. Good salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for HVAC technicians in Washington is over $60,000, which is above the national average.
3. Opportunities for advancement: With experience and additional training, HVAC professionals can advance to become supervisors, managers, or even start their own businesses.
4. Fulfilling work: HVAC professionals get to work with their hands, solve problems, and help people feel comfortable in their homes and workplaces.
5. Varied work: HVAC professionals work in a variety of settings, from residential homes to commercial buildings, and on different types of equipment, from traditional heating and cooling systems to geothermal and solar technologies.

What is the Mean salary for an HVAC technician in Washington

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for HVAC technicians in Washington state is $69,240 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and type of employer. HVAC technicians who work in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metropolitan area tend to earn a higher salary compared to those working in more rural areas.

How to Become HVAC professional in Washington

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

1. Obtain a high school diploma or GED: A high school diploma or GED is typically required to enroll in an HVAC training program.
2. Complete an HVAC training program: Many community colleges and vocational schools offer HVAC training programs that teach students the skills and knowledge needed to become an HVAC technician. These programs typically last 6 months to 2 years and cover topics such as electrical systems, refrigeration, and heating and cooling systems.
3. Gain work experience: After completing an HVAC training program, you may want to gain some work experience by working as an apprentice or helper to a licensed HVAC technician. This can provide you with hands-on experience and help you develop your skills.
4. Obtain licensure: In Washington, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. To obtain a license, you will need to pass an exam and meet certain requirements, such as having a certain amount of work experience.
5. Obtain certifications: While not required, obtaining certifications from organizations such as the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) can demonstrate your knowledge and expertise to employers and clients.
6. Stay up to date with industry developments: Continuing education and staying up to date with industry developments can help you stay competitive in the field and provide the best service to clients.

It’s also worth noting that some employers may have their own requirements beyond those mandated by the state.

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

The cost of becoming an HVAC technician in Washington varies depending on the type of training program you choose.

Community colleges and vocational schools in Washington offer HVAC training programs, which can cost around $2,500 to $12,000. Apprenticeship programs, on the other hand, are sponsored by trade organizations or unions and are typically free. However, apprentices are required to pay for textbooks, tools, and other supplies.

Additionally, to obtain an HVAC license in Washington, there are other costs to consider, such as exam fees, application fees, and insurance costs.

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

The length of time it takes to become an HVAC technician in Washington can vary depending on the training path you choose.

For example, community college and vocational school HVAC programs in Washington typically take between 6 months to 2 years to complete. Apprenticeship programs can take 3 to 5 years to complete, but they are usually paid and include on-the-job training.

In addition, after completing a training program, HVAC technicians in Washington must complete on-the-job training and gain several years of experience before they can apply for a journey-level or master-level HVAC license. Overall, it may take anywhere from 2 to 5 years to become a fully licensed and experienced HVAC technician in Washington.

Washington HVAC Training programs and schools

There are several HVAC training programs and schools in Washington that offer courses and certifications in HVAC. Some of these programs include:

1. Bates Technical College: Located in Tacoma, Bates Technical College offers an HVAC/R Technician program that provides hands-on training in installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC systems.
2. Perry Technical Institute: Perry Technical Institute is located in Yakima and offers an HVAC/R Technology program that covers topics such as electrical theory, system design, and troubleshooting.
3. Renton Technical College: Renton Technical College is located in Renton and offers an HVAC/R Technician program that provides training in system design, installation, maintenance, and repair.
4. South Seattle College: Located in Seattle, South Seattle College offers an HVAC/R Technician program that covers topics such as refrigeration, heating, and air conditioning systems.
5. Spokane Community College: Spokane Community College offers an HVAC/R program that provides hands-on training in HVAC systems and equipment, as well as preparation for industry certifications.

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

Washington Licensing exam details and EPA certification

In Washington, the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) administers the HVAC licensing program. To obtain a license, you must pass the required exams and meet the education and experience requirements. There is no EPA certification requirement in Washington.

The exams include a trade-specific exam and a business and law exam. The trade-specific exam covers topics such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, and related systems. The business and law exam covers topics such as business management, contract law, and safety regulations.

To prepare for the exams, you can take courses at an approved HVAC training program or study on your own. The L&I website provides a candidate bulletin that includes exam content outlines and study references.

Additionally, you must meet education and experience requirements to be eligible for licensure. You can qualify for a journey-level license with a combination of education and experience, or you can qualify for a specialty electrician license with specific training and experience in that area.

Overall, the licensing process in Washington involves passing exams and meeting education and experience requirements, with no EPA certification requirement.

Core Exam details in Washington for HVAC Professional

The state of Washington requires HVAC professionals to pass the Washington State HVAC/R Core Exam. This exam is designed to test the basic knowledge and skills necessary for an HVAC professional to work safely and competently in the field. The exam covers topics such as:

• HVAC/R systems
• Refrigeration principles
• Electrical fundamentals
• Gas heating principles
• Venting and combustion air
• Indoor air quality
• Building codes and regulations

The exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions and is administered at approved testing sites throughout the state. Candidates have three hours to complete the exam, and a passing score is 70% or higher.

Who issues HVAC Licenses in Washington

In Washington, HVAC licenses are issued by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I).

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

A registration or license issued by the state of Washington may not necessarily allow you to work in another state. You will need to check with the other state’s licensing board or regulatory agency to determine their requirements for working as an HVAC professional in that state. Each state has its own licensing and certification requirements for HVAC professionals, and they may or may not have reciprocity agreements with other states.

National HVAC Certifications

There are several national HVAC certifications that an HVAC professional can obtain to demonstrate their expertise and knowledge in the field. Some of the most recognized certifications include:

1. North American Technician Excellence (NATE): This is a nationally recognized certification program that tests HVAC technicians’ knowledge of installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC systems.
2. HVAC Excellence: This is another nationally recognized certification program that offers various certifications, including Certified Residential, Certified Commercial, and Certified Master HVAC Technician.
3. EPA 608 Certification: This certification is required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for all HVAC technicians who work with refrigerants. It is divided into four different types based on the type of equipment an HVAC technician works with.
4. RSES Certificate Member (RSES CM): The Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) offers various HVACR certifications, including RSES CM. This certification tests an HVAC technician’s knowledge of refrigeration and air conditioning systems.
5. ASHRAE Certifications: The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) offers various HVAC certifications, including the Building Energy Assessment Professional (BEAP) and the Building Energy Modeling Professional (BEMP) certifications.

It is important to note that the requirements for obtaining these certifications vary by organization, and some may require previous work experience or education in the field.

Continuing education and renewal of Washington license for HVAC

In Washington, HVAC professionals are required to renew their license every year by the last day of their birth month. The renewal process involves completing continuing education courses that are approved by the state.

To renew their license, HVAC professionals in Washington need to complete a minimum of 24 hours of continuing education during each two-year renewal period. At least eight of these hours must be in code update courses, while four hours must be in industry-related courses.

It is important to note that failure to renew the license on time can result in a late fee and potentially the suspension of the license. Therefore, HVAC professionals in Washington must ensure that they stay up-to-date with their continuing education requirements and renew their license on time.