Embarking on a career as an HVAC professional in Arizona begins with understanding the licensing process. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the application requirements for obtaining an HVAC license in Arizona, with a focus on the specific steps needed to succeed. Whether you're new to the industry or looking to expand your credentials, this guide will equip you with the essential tools and insights to navigate your licensing journey confidently.

Arizona HVAC License Requirements

The market size of the Heating & Air-Conditioning Contractors (HVAC) industry in Arizona is projected to reach $4.1 billion in 2026, according to IBISWorld. There are 2,792 businesses in Arizona's Heating & Air-Conditioning Contractors industry, which grew at an average annual rate of 4.1% from 2020 to 2025. Additionally, the HVAC market in Arizona has grown at an average annual rate of 5.2% from 2020 to 2025. The state’s year-round desert climate, rapid population growth, and construction boom create year-round demand for cooling systems, keeping HVAC technicians busy with new installations.

You must be licensed in Arizona to legally perform heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) work valued at more than $1,000 or requiring a building permit. Licensing is through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC).

According to the ROC, there are three license classifications for statewide HVACR contractor licenses:

  • Specialty Commercial C-39 Air Conditioning and Refrigeration: Allows the licensee to install, alter, and repair commercial refrigeration and evaporative cooling systems.
  • Specialty Residential R-39 Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, including Solar: Allows the licensee to install and repair residential comfort air conditioning systems, including refrigeration, evaporative cooling, ventilation, and heating, with or without solar equipment.
  • Specialty Dual CR-39 Air Conditioning and Refrigeration: Allows the scopes of work permitted by the commercial C-39 Air Conditioning and Refrigeration and the residential R-39R Air Conditioning and Refrigeration licenses.

Eligibility Criteria for an Arizona HVAC License

  • Minimum work experience verified by a licensed contractor or employer
  • Completion of required education or training, such as an apprenticeship or technical instruction
  • Passing the Arizona HVAC trade exam and the business management exam
  • Submission of an Affidavit of Experience documenting the scope and duration of work
  • Proof of required bond and insurance in compliance with Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) requirements

Required Documentation and Qualifications

  • Age: You must be 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
  • Experience: At least 4 years of practical HVAC experience (up to 2 years can be from an apprenticeship).
  • Exams: Pass two PSI exams with 70% or higher:
    • Trade Exam (R-39 for residential, C-39 for commercial, or both for CR-39)
    • Arizona’s Statutes and Rules Exam (SRE)
    • You must pass the Solar Examination if you wish to handle solar unit projects
  • Business Registration:
  • Background Check: Complete a mandatory criminal background check. You can do so through AccusourceHR.
  • Insurance: Obtain General Liability insurance and Workers’ Compensation if you have employees.
  • Surety Bond: Secure a Contractors Bond ($2,500–$50,000 for commercial; $4,250–$7,500 for residential, based on work volume)
  • License Application: Submit application to the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) with fees.
  • EPA Certification: Obtain EPA Section 608 Technician Certification if handling refrigerants (federal requirement).

How to Get an HVAC License in Arizona

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors offers free virtual monthly Applicant Education Seminars to help you navigate the licensing process and answer any questions you have. They also have a step-by-step guide on “Applying for a License” on the website.

The Arizona HVAC License Application Process

  • Choose the appropriate HVAC license classification: Determine whether you need a residential, commercial, or dual HVAC license based on the type of work you plan to perform.
  • Gain the required work experience: Accumulate at least four years of hands-on HVAC experience under a licensed contractor or qualifying party.
  • Complete required education or training: Participate in an apprenticeship, trade school, or approved training program that supports your documented work experience.
  • Document your experience: Complete and submit an Affidavit of Experience signed by a licensed contractor or employer verifying your HVAC work history.
  • Submit your application to the Arizona Registrar of Contractors: File the contractor license application along with required fees and supporting documentation.
    • Log-in to the ROC Online Customer Portal.
    • Create an account here.
    • Or download and mail the Application Form to:
      • Registrar of Contractors, P.O. Box 6748, Phoenix, AZ 85005-6748
      • Or deliver the application to: 1700 West Washington Street, Suite 105, Phoenix, AZ 85007-2812
  • Pass the required exams: HVAC trade exam and Arizona’s Statutes and Rules Exam (SRE).
  • Obtain required bond and insurance: Secure the contractor license bond and any required insurance coverage as mandated by the ROC.
  • Receive license approval and begin work: Once approved, your HVAC license is issued, and you may legally perform work within your license scope in Arizona.

Exam Preparation and Study Resources

Preparing Arizona Statutes and Rules Exam and the Trade Exam usually takes 1 to 3 months, depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying. The following are several HVAC Schools in Arizona:

  • National Technical Institute
  • The Refrigeration School, Inc.
  • Vocational Training Institute
  • West-MEC (Northeast Campus)
  • UEI College - Phoenix
  • EVIT Power Campus

Tips for Successfully Getting Your HVAC License

  • Confirm the correct license classification early: Ensure your experience aligns with the scope of the HVAC work you plan to perform (residential, commercial, or dual).
  • Document your work experience carefully: Keep detailed records of job duties, dates, and supervisors so your Affidavit of Experience is complete and accurate.
  • Choose reputable training or apprenticeship programs: Programs aligned with Arizona ROC expectations help avoid delays or application issues.
  • Prepare for both required exams: Study not only HVAC technical knowledge, but also the Business Management exam, which many applicants underestimate.
  • Line up bond and insurance requirements in advance: Securing bonding and insurance early prevents last-minute approval delays.
  • Review ROC application requirements before submitting: Double-check forms, fees, and supporting documents to reduce the chance of rejection or resubmission.

Licensing Bonds and Insurance Requirements for Arizona HVAC Contractors

Obtain and submit the required Contractor’s License Bond and any applicable insurance documentation: General Liability insurance to protect against third-party bodily injury and property damage, and Workers’ Compensation if you have employees. Arizona has state minimum General Liability coverage thresholds you must meet.

How to Obtain Necessary Bonds and Insurance

CCIS can provide you with a Contractor’s License Bond and the insurance you are required to carry. We’ve been serving contractors for more than 55 years.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC Licenses in Arizona

Q. Are there insurance products available for HVAC contractors through CCIS?

A. CCIS can provide you with a portfolio of insurance products, including General Liability and Workers’ Comp insurance, Excess Liability for additional coverage, and Contractors Tools & Equipment to protect the tools of your trade.

Q. Where can I find official forms and resources for HVAC contractor licensing in Arizona?

A. The Arizona Registrar of Contractors has the official forms and resources you need for licensing.

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal, licensing, or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and bond amounts may change and can vary by applicant. Always verify requirements directly with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors and applicable local jurisdictions. Consult with your legal professional concerning your compliance as to your business operations.