How to become a licensed HVAC contractor in Idaho
Requirements for licensing as a HVAC systems installer in Idaho
Do I need to register as a HVAC systems installer with the State of Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licenses?
No. HVAC technicians must register or obtain the appropriate license through the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL), which oversees the Idaho Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Board. Depending on the type of work they perform and their level of experience, individuals may need to register as an HVAC apprentice or obtain a journeyman or contractor certificate of competency.
What are the requirements to become a licensed HVAC Contractor in the State of Idaho?
HVAC Apprentice:
Anyone wishing to perform HVAC work that requires registration or licensure in Idaho must meet the applicable requirements of the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL). HVAC apprentices must register with DOPL and maintain an active registration while accruing qualifying work experience. Apprentices must work under the supervision of a qualified, licensed HVAC journeyman.
HVAC Journeyman:
To qualify for an Idaho HVAC journeyman certificate of competency, applicants must pass the examination designated by the HVAC Board and meet one of the following experience and education requirements:
- Education and experience pathway: Provide evidence of at least 8,000 hours of qualifying HVAC installation experience as an apprentice and successful completion of 576 hours of board-approved instruction.
- Experience-only pathway: Provide proof of 16,000 hours of qualifying HVAC experience.
HVAC Contractor:
An HVAC Contractor in Idaho must provide proof to the Idaho Board of Building Safety of working for at least two years as a licensed HVAC journeyman. Submit the completed and notarized Application for Examination as an HVAC Contractor or HVAC Specialty Contractor along with the application fee, to the HVAC Bureau at the address below. When your application is approved you will be notified by the Board how to contact Pearson VUE, the testing service, to schedule an examination. You will pay the exam fee to the test administrator on the day of the exam. If you pass the exam, the HVAC Bureau will notify you of the certification fees and bonding requirements.
Find all the needed forms and information at the Idaho HVAC Bureau link below.
HVAC Bureau, Idaho Division of Building Safety Contact information:
State of Idaho
Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Board
11341 W. Chinden Blvd., Building 4
Boise, ID 83714
(208) 334-3233 for licensing questions
How often must I renew my Idaho HVAC License?
Under the current licensing schedule, Idaho HVAC journeyman and contractor certificates are valid for three years. HVAC apprentice registrations are valid for one year.
DOPL has announced that the HVAC Board will transition to biennial licensure beginning October 30, 2026. This change may affect renewal periods and fees, so licensees and applicants should check the official Idaho HVAC Board website for current renewal requirements and transition instructions.
What are the costs involved for HVAC licenses and renewals in Idaho?
Idaho Apprenticeship Registration fee – $10
Idaho HVAC Journeyman License Application fee – $35
Idaho HVAC Journeyman License fee – $150
Idaho HVAC Journeyman Renewal fee – $75
Idaho HVAC Contractor Application fee – $35
Idaho HVAC Contractor License fee – $225
Idaho HVAC Contractor Renewal fee – $150
All fees are nonrefundable
Does the State of Idaho HVAC Board, DBS recognize reciprocal states?
No. Idaho does not currently have reciprocal HVAC licensing agreements with other states. Applicants with out-of-state experience must meet Idaho’s applicable licensing requirements.
Does the Idaho DBS require continuing education for an HVAC journeyman or contractor?
There is no continuing education requirement in Idaho for HVAC at this time.