How to Get an HVAC License in Oregon: Your Guide to the HVAC Licensing Process

Securing an HVAC license in Oregon is a crucial step for entering the state's thriving heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry. This guide covers what you need to know about obtaining your Oregon HVAC license, from understanding the specific requirements and application process to exploring the different types of licenses available. You'll find valuable resources on training programs and educational paths to help you build a successful career. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your expertise, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to confidently navigate the Oregon HVAC licensing process.

Oregon HVAC License Requirements

The Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) issues Commercial and Residential Contractor Licenses, while the Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD) issues the Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor – HVAC/R License. Each has specific requirements to meet before obtaining a license. In addition, local ordinances and permitting vary throughout the state.

In addition, because local regulations and permitting requirements vary across Oregon, HVAC professionals should confirm all local licensing and credentialing requirements with the municipalities where they plan to work.

Eligibility Criteria for an Oregon HVAC License

• CCB rules generally require contractors to be at least 18 years old and to be in good standing with respect to any construction-related debts, judgments, or prior violations. Specific eligibility criteria are determined by the CCB and may change, so always verify current requirements directly with the board.
• Set up a business and choose its structure: sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or limited liability company (LLC).
• Select a business name. Check name availability with the Oregon Secretary of State at www.filinginoregon.com.
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is a federal tax ID number required for tax purposes.

• Register your business online at: https://sos.oregon.gov/business/Pages/register.aspx.

How to Get an HVAC License in Oregon

Oregon offers two HVAC technician license classifications and one contractor license. These licenses and classifications have specific scopes of work and limitations. The exact license you need will depend on the type of HVAC, refrigeration, or control work you perform. Always confirm with the Oregon Building Codes Division or CCB to ensure you are applying for the correct license type for your work.

• Class A Limited Energy Technician: This license requires either completion of an approved Oregon apprenticeship, official transcripts showing 432 hours of classroom instruction plus 6,000 hours of documented on-the-job training in specific work categories, or 12,000 hours of verified out-of-state experience. Out-of-state experience must include trade-specific installation work related to fire and life safety systems, such as fire alarms, nurse call systems, and burglar alarms.
• Class B Limited Energy Technician: Applicants may qualify by completing a board-approved apprenticeship program, verifying 4,000 hours of qualifying work experience equivalent to an apprenticeship, along with a board-approved 32-hour training course (which may be completed after application approval), or documenting 8,000 hours of work experience in designated work categories.

Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor HVAC/R

This contractor license allows companies to maintain, service, repair, or replace commercial and industrial HVAC and refrigeration equipment. The scope of work is limited to the signing supervisor’s qualifications. License holders must either employ a Class A or Class B Limited Energy Technician or hold one of those licenses themselves.

Basically, if you are an HVAC technician (employee):

• You must hold the appropriate HVAC/limited energy license (such as Class A or Class B Limited Energy Technician) issued by the Oregon Building Codes Division.
• You do not need a contractor’s license if you work for a licensed contractor.
• You must pass the BCD trade exam for your license type.

If you want to run your own HVAC business or contract directly with the public:

• You must hold the required HVAC/limited energy license.
• You must also obtain a contractor license from the CCB.
• This typically means you must take two tests:
  • Trade exam (HVAC/limited energy) through BCD
  • Business & law exam through CCB (based on the NASCLA Contractors Guide)

Technicians who handle regulated refrigerants must obtain EPA Section 608 certification by passing an approved exam and paying the applicable exam fee set by the test provider. Requirements and fees can vary by provider, so always confirm current details with the organization administering the exam.

The Oregon Air Conditioning Contractors Association offers training materials and resources to help technicians and contractors prepare for and obtain EPA Section 608 certification in compliance with the Clean Air Act.

The Oregon HVAC License Application Process

• Complete a board-approved HVAC apprenticeship program that satisfies all required classroom instruction and hands-on experience.
• Apply for the licensing exam and submit all required fees.
• Pass the HVAC exam and receive your license.
• Consider becoming an independent specialty contractor, which allows you to own and operate your own business and employ other licensed workers.
• Meet CCB contractor requirements:
  • You must be at least 18 years old
  • Complete a minimum of 16 hours of law and business training
  • Pass the required CCB exam
• Provide surety bond(s) required by the CCB:
  • Under current CCB rules, contractor bond amounts vary by license type and can range from approximately $15,000 to $80,000 or more.
  • Bond requirements are set by the CCB and may change, so confirm the exact amount and type of bond required for your license classification.
• Provide proof of General Liability and Workers’ Compensation insurance:
  • Provide proof of any insurance required by the CCB, which typically includes General Liability coverage and Workers’ Compensation if you have employees.
  • The CCB currently requires that the General Liability policy list the CCB as the certificate holder. Requirements and limits are set by the CCB and may change over time, so verify current insurance requirements directly with the board.

Exam Preparation and Study Resources

After your application is approved, the Oregon Building Codes Division will send you a letter of authorization with instructions for scheduling your exam. Testing is available at locations throughout Oregon, and exam results are typically mailed within two weeks. A minimum score of 75% is required to pass.

Licensing exams are open book, allowing the use of approved reference materials such as the National Electrical Code (NEC). Applicants may also use study guides, exam prep materials, and practice tests to prepare.

The CCB contractor exam, administered by PSI Services, consists of 80 multiple-choice questions covering business law and practices. Although the exam is open-book, a passing score of 70% is required. The exam content is based on the Oregon edition of the NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management.

Tips for Successfully Getting Your HVAC License

• Know which license you need: Determine whether you’re applying as an HVAC technician (Class A or B Limited Energy) or planning to run your own business, which requires both a trade license and a CCB contractor license.
• Document your experience carefully: Oregon has strict hours and training requirements. Make sure your apprenticeship, classroom hours, or out-of-state experience is well documented and broken down by work category.
• Prepare for multiple exams if applicable: Business owners must pass both a BCD trade exam and a CCB business and law exam; plan your study time accordingly.
• Secure required certifications early: If you handle refrigerants, obtain your EPA Section 608 certification in advance to avoid delays in obtaining your license.
• Get bonds and insurance lined up ahead of approval: Contractor Bonds, General Liability, and Workers’ Compensation (if applicable) must be in place quickly once approved, or your license may be delayed or invalidated.
• Check local requirements before working: Licensing and permitting rules can vary by city and county, so confirm local regulations in every area where you plan to operate.

Licensing Bonds and Insurance Requirements for Oregon HVAC Contractors

Contractor Licensing Bonds are required, with amounts varying by license type. General Liability and Workers’ Compensation (if you have employees) are also required for licensing. General Liability amounts vary as well.

How to Obtain Necessary Bonds and Insurance

CCIS can provide you with your Contractors License Bond, General Liability, and Workers’ Compensation insurance if you are required to purchase coverage. We can also provide you with Excess Liability and Contractors Tools & Equipment coverage. We work with top-tier insurance companies and are ready to provide you with quotes.

NOTE: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, licensing, or professional advice. Licensing requirements, bond amounts, insurance requirements, and fees are determined by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board, the Oregon Building Codes Division, and other authorities, and they may change at any time. Requirements can also vary based on your individual situation and the scope of work. Always verify current requirements directly with the appropriate state and local agencies or consult with a qualified professional.