Texas requires HVAC professionals to pass a state licensing or certification exam before practicing independently. Licensing in Texas is overseen by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). ExamsLib offers free practice questions and study guides to help you prepare for the Texas HVAC exam.
Overview
Exam Overview
In Texas, the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) program sets the standards candidates must meet to be licensed in the HVAC field. The exam is administered by PSI and focuses on HVAC, refrigeration, and mechanical code, along with the state-specific rules that apply to Texas practitioners.
Because licensing details differ from state to state, it is important to study the Texas requirements specifically rather than relying on national averages. The sections below summarize the license types, exam format, and typical requirements for Texas.
Scope
License Types
Texas recognizes several HVAC credential types:
- ACR Contractor License - Class A - Air conditioning and refrigeration work with no size limit.
- ACR Contractor License - Class B - Cooling systems up to 25 tons and heating up to 1.5 million BTU/h.
- ACR Technician Registration - Work performed under the supervision of a licensed ACR contractor.
Structure
Exam Format
The Texas HVAC exam is a multiple-choice examination administered by PSI. It is typically delivered by computer at an approved testing center. The number of questions and the time limit vary by license type and exam version, so review the current candidate handbook from PSI before your test date.
Score
Passing Score
Texas generally requires 70 percent to pass the HVAC licensing exam. Passing thresholds can differ by license type and can be updated by the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) program. Confirm the current passing requirement with the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) program before your exam date.
Eligibility
Requirements
Typical requirements to sit for the Texas HVAC exam include:
- 48 months of practical acr experience.
- A completed application submitted to the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) program.
- Payment of applicable examination and licensing fees.
- Any background check or eligibility documentation required by the state.
Requirements can change. Always confirm current licensing rules with the official state licensing authority before applying.
Cost
Fees
Examination and licensing fees in Texas are set by the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) program and the testing provider, and are subject to change. Plan for both an application fee and a separate exam scheduling fee paid to PSI. Always confirm current fee amounts with the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) program or PSI before submitting payment.
Plan Ahead
Study Plan
A focused 4 to 6 week study plan works well for most candidates:
- Week 1-2: Review the fundamentals of EPA 608 Certification and Refrigeration and Air Conditioning.
- Week 3-4: Work through Heating Systems and Texas-specific rules, then take a full-length practice test.
- Week 5-6: Review every missed question, drill weak areas, and simulate exam timing.
Practice topics on ExamsLib cover EPA 608 Certification, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, Heating Systems.
Focus Areas
Study Topics
EC EPA 608 Certification
Study EPA 608 for your HVAC exam. Covers Core, Type I, II, and III requirements, refrigerant regulations, recovery procedures, and common exam mistakes.
Study this topicRC Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Study refrigeration and air conditioning for your HVAC exam. Covers the refrigeration cycle, superheat, subcooling, metering devices, and heat pump operation.
Study this topicHS Heating Systems
Study heating systems for your HVAC exam. Covers gas furnace operation, heat exchanger safety, combustion analysis, venting categories, and hydronic heating.
Study this topic
Keep Exploring
Related Pages
Frequently asked questions
Who issues HVAC licenses in Texas?
Licensing in Texas is handled by the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) program, operating under the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Always verify the current process directly with that authority, since rules can change.
Is the Texas HVAC exam multiple choice?
Yes. The Texas HVAC exam delivered by PSI is primarily multiple choice and is taken by computer at an approved testing center. Review the current candidate handbook for the exact format.
What score do I need to pass the Texas HVAC exam?
Texas generally requires 70 percent. Passing standards can be revised by the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) program, so confirm the current requirement before scheduling.
How do I apply for the Texas HVAC exam?
Applications are submitted to the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) program. After your eligibility is approved, you schedule the exam through PSI. Requirements can change, so always verify the current steps with the official authority.
