Florida requires HVAC contractors to be licensed before contracting work independently. The Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), part of the Florida DBPR, oversees licensing in Florida. This guide walks you through the main steps, typical requirements, and the exam process.
Requirements can change. Always confirm current licensing rules with the official state licensing authority before applying.
Quick Overview
- Experience4 Years
- Exam FeeVaries
- Renewal2 Years
- CE NeededRequired
Figures come from official sources and can change. Always confirm with the licensing authority before applying.
3 Steps to Licensure
- 1
Meet the requirements
Requirements for Florida HVAC licensure typically include:
- 4 years of mechanical trade experience.
- A completed application submitted to the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).
- A passing score on the Florida HVAC licensing exam.
- Payment of application and examination fees.
Requirements can change. Always confirm current licensing rules with the official state licensing authority before applying.
- 2
Submit your application
The application process for a Florida HVAC license generally involves these steps:
- Confirm you meet the education or experience prerequisites.
- Submit your application and supporting documents to the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).
- Pay the application fee.
- Receive eligibility approval.
- Schedule and pass the exam through Pearson VUE.
- Submit any post-exam documentation and pay the licensing fee.
Steps can change, so verify the current process with the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).
- 3
Pass the hvac exam
The Florida HVAC exam is a multiple-choice exam administered by Pearson VUE. Plan to pass with 70 percent. The exam covers HVAC, refrigeration, and mechanical code plus Florida-specific rules. Always confirm exam requirements with the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) or Pearson VUE, because formats and approved materials can change.
License Types
Class A Contractor
Install and service HVAC systems of any size, statewide.
- No size limit
- Statewide scope
Class B / Technician
Limited-capacity systems, or work under a licensed contractor.
- Size or supervision limits
- Good for starting out
Details
Experience
Florida expects candidates to complete 4 years of mechanical trade experience before licensure. Documentation standards are set by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), and acceptable proof can include employer verification, course completion certificates, or program transcripts depending on the credential. Check the current standards with the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) before you apply.
Details
Fees
Florida application, exam, and licensing fees are set by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) and Pearson VUE and are subject to change. Budget for both an application fee and an exam scheduling fee. Always confirm current fee amounts with the official authority before submitting payment.
Details
Renewal
Florida HVAC licenses are renewed on a fixed cycle (commonly every 2 years) and typically require continuing education and a renewal fee. Specific continuing-education hours are set by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). Requirements can change; always confirm renewal requirements with the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) before your renewal deadline.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get an HVAC license in Florida?
Timelines depend on application volume and how complete your submission is. After the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) approves your application, you schedule the exam through Pearson VUE. Confirm current timelines with the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).
Do I need to pass an exam to get a Florida HVAC license?
Yes. Florida requires passing the HVAC licensing exam administered by Pearson VUE, generally with 70 percent. Requirements can change, so verify with the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).
What education or experience does Florida require?
Florida typically requires 4 years of mechanical trade experience. Acceptable documentation is defined by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). Always confirm the current standard before applying.
Is there reciprocity for HVAC licenses in Florida?
Reciprocity rules vary and change over time. Contact the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) directly to ask about current reciprocity options for your situation.
