Florida’s year-round warm climate means that HVAC technicians are in high demand, creating many job opportunities in the HVAC field that offer competitive salaries and a pleasant work environment.
To embark on a career as a Florida HVAC professional, you must understand the ins and outs of obtaining your HVAC license. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Florida HVAC licenses and offer step-by-step instructions on how to get your Florida HVAC license.
Who Needs to Have an HVAC License in Florida?
For contractors and technicians to service air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration systems in Florida, they must have the proper licensing from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations, a division of the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board.
What Types of HVAC Licenses are Available in Florida?
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations offers four different HVAC licenses:
- State Certified Class A: With this HVAC license, an HVAC technician can service any unit in Florida, regardless of size or location.
- State Registered Class A: This license allows the HVAC technician to service any size unit but only in certain locations.
- State Certified Class B: This license allows HVAC technicians to service any cooling system weighing under 20 tons and heating systems under 500,000 BTU.
- State Registered Class B: This HVAC license limits a technician’s work to specific areas in the state on cooling systems of less than 20 tons or heating systems of less than 500,000 BTU.
What are the Requirements for Obtaining a Florida HVAC License?
To obtain an HVAC license in Florida, an applicant must meet the following requirements:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Have either a high school diploma or a GED
- Have completed on-the-job training or completed HVAC school
- Passed the required HVAC licensing examinations
- Gained verified HVAC work experience
- Have a minimum credit score of 660
- Pass a criminal background check
Insurance Requirements for HVAC Technicians
Florida HVAC technicians must possess at least $100,000 in general liability coverage and $25,000 in coverage for property damage. HVAC contractors that want to acquire a license or hire a licensed Florida HVAC worker must have Florida general contractors insurance, which includes public liability insurance, insurance for property damage, and workers’ compensation if they plan to employ others.
What Does the HVAC Licensing Exam Look Like?
Florida’s Class A HVAC exam features 130 questions administered via computer.
The exam questions cover the following:
- Basic math
- Reading specifications and plans
- Reading and interpreting codes
The Class B HVAC exam includes 80 questions that cover the same topics.
Obtaining a Florida HVAC License: Step-by-Step
To obtain an HVAC license in Florida, you must take the following steps:
- Step 1: Successfully complete an HVAC training program at an accredited HVAC school or complete an apprenticeship program. The time it takes to complete a Florida HVAC program varies based on the specific program, but most can be completed in less than two years. An HVAC apprenticeship can take between three and five years to complete.
- Step 2: Submit your application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations no later than 30 days before your chosen licensing exam date. Once it is approved, you can take the HVAC licensing exam.
- Step 3: Obtain insurance. The required insurance amount will depend on your license level.
- Step 4: Submit your background check and a copy of your credit report. If your credit score is lower than 660, you must prove that you have completed a 14-hour approved course on financial responsibility.
What HVAC Programs are Available in Florida?
Several HVAC programs are available in Florida to help you obtain your HVAC license. They include:
- Certificate programs: An HVAC certificate program offers the basic skills and knowledge to become an entry-level HVAC technician. In a Florida HVAC certificate program, students receive hands-on instruction that helps them to understand, develop, repair, and maintain various HVAC equipment. It also provides the basis for pursuing an associate degree in A/C Refrigeration Technology. HVAC technology certificate programs typically take six months to a year to complete.
- AS programs: Associate of Science (AS) programs in HVAC technology offer a more comprehensive education than certificate programs, and they prepare students for more advanced positions in the field. These programs typically take two years to complete and offer the skills and experience necessary for mid-level employment as an HVAC technician. These programs provide high-quality classroom instruction and hands-on training to work in various HVAC career path settings.
- Apprenticeships: Apprentices can learn HVAC skills while, at the same time, earning a paycheck. An HVAC apprenticeship typically lasts four years and combines classroom training and on-the-job experience.
Why CBT Technology Institute is the Right HVAC Trade School for You
CBT Technology Institute is a leading HVAC school in Miami, Florida. We offer an 8-month HVAC technician program where you can quickly gain the HVAC training necessary to begin working in an entry-level position in the HVAC industry.
CBT Technology Institute also offers a 20-month AS program, which teaches the basics of HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance in various settings. It includes HVAC training courses that teach green technology, sustainable HVAC practices, and alternative energy concepts.
Our hands-on training lets you discover which area best suits your abilities.
Contact CBT Technology Institute’s HVAC school in Miami to embark on this transformative journey and secure a bright future in a high-demand industry.