Securing an HVAC license in Washington State is a vital step for those seeking to excel in the industry. This overview will guide you through the specific requirements and steps needed to obtain your Washington HVAC license, from understanding application procedures to preparing for the licensing exam. You'll find valuable resources for exam preparation, as well as information on starting your HVAC business or registering as a contractor in Washington. Whether you're just beginning your career or expanding your services, this guide provides essential insights and tools to navigate the licensing process with confidence.

Washington HVAC License Requirements

The demand for skilled technicians remains high, with average hourly wages for HVAC technicians in Washington being among the highest in the nation. At the same time, HVAC technicians in Washington must comply with new regulatory changes. For example, as of January 1, 2026, all new commercial refrigeration and HVAC systems must use low-GWP refrigerants (such as R-32 and R-454B). These A2L refrigerants are mildly flammable, requiring technicians to have new training and certifications for safe handling.

Washington does not issue a standalone statewide HVAC or mechanical license. Instead, HVAC technicians and specialty contractors are typically licensed under specialty electrician classifications.

The different types of specialty electrical licenses issued in Washington are as follows:

  • General Journey Level
  • HVAC/refrigeration systems specialty license
  • HVAC/refrigeration – restricted (6B) specialty license

In addition, some cities require their own local licenses to perform HVAC or refrigeration work. Cities such as Kennewick, Pullman, Seattle, Spokane, and Yakima have specific licensing requirements for HVAC and refrigeration professionals working within city limits. Be sure to check local regulations in the areas where you plan to work to ensure compliance.

Eligibility Criteria for a Washington HVAC License

Licensing and oversight are handled by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, which regulates electricians, plumbers, contractors, and other trades. To legally perform HVAC work in Washington, professionals must meet specific licensing and minimum qualification requirements set by the state.

  • Meet basic eligibility requirements: Be at least 16 years old and typically hold a high school diploma or GED.
  • Complete HVAC training: Enroll in a recognized training path, such as a trade school program, apprenticeship, or employer-sponsored training.
  • Register as an electrical trainee: Washington requires HVAC and HVACR professionals to be licensed under specialty electrician classifications. Entry into the field begins as a registered trainee working under the supervision of a certified electrician.
  • Apply for and maintain a trainee certificate: Obtain an electrical trainee certificate (a valid Social Security number is required) and renew it annually by completing 48 hours of approved basic electrical trainee education.
  • Gain the required experience and education: Accumulate the necessary on-the-job training and classroom instruction to qualify for the electrical licensing exam.
  • Pass the state licensing exam: Successfully complete the required exam to earn your Washington specialty electrician license.
  • Obtain EPA Section 608 Certification: Pass the EPA exam to legally work with refrigerants used in HVAC and refrigeration systems.
  • Pursue additional certifications: Optional certifications can enhance skills, increase marketability, and support higher earning potential.
  • Meet business licensing requirements (if self-employed): To operate your own HVAC business, you’ll need a state business license, workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance, and a bond or cash deposit. Local requirements may also apply.

Required Documentation and Qualifications

  • Your Social Security number or federal employee ID number
  • The UBI number from the Department of Revenue
  • Completed business structure registration
  • Your Continuous Contractor’s Surety Bond (F625-003-000)
  • Certificate of insurance for General Liability coverage
  • Proof of Workers’ Compensation insurance if applicable
  • Business and mailing address -- your mailing address can be a post office box number, but your business address must include an actual street name
  • Previous registration information if you, your spouse, or anyone acting as a principal owner of your business has ever registered as a general contractor

How to Get an HVAC License in Washington State

The Washington HVAC License Application Process

  • Establish your business structure. Determine whether you will work as a sole proprietor, corporation, partnership, or limited liability company (LLC). Corporation owners should contact the Washington Secretary of State for instructions on how to proceed. If you are unsure about the type of business structure you want, visit business.wa.gov for more information on starting and structuring your business.
  • Register your business with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries and obtain a Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number from the Department of Revenue.
  • Purchase a Surety Bond: $15,000 for specialty contractors.
    • The bond must include the bond number and the exact business name.
  • Purchase General Liability insurance:
    • A minimum of $200,000 in public liability and $50,000 property damage or $250,000 combined single limit in coverage is required.
    • The Department of Labor & Industries must be listed as a certificate holder on your Liability insurance.
  • Buy Workers’ Compensation insurance if you plan to hire employees.
  • Complete the license application form. All signatures on the application must be original and notarized. The Department of Labor & Industries will not accept a copy of your application. Pay the required application fee of $124.70 by check or money order payable to the Department of Labor & Industries.
  • Mail all documents to:
    Department of Labor & Industries
    Contractor Registration
    P.O. BOX 44450
    Olympia, WA 98504-4450

Exam Preparation and Study Resources

General journey-level electricians (EL01) are certified to work in commercial/industrial and all specialty electrical categories. There are minimum experience and education requirements:

  • At least 8,000 hours working as an electrical trainee under the supervision of a certified journey-level electrician. At least 4,000 hours must be spent working in commercial or industrial installations.
  • 96 hours of basic classroom instruction.
  • Trainees must be supervised at least 75% of the time.
  • To qualify for the EL01 examination, you must have completed a recognized electrical apprenticeship program.
  • To work on a commercial jobsite, trainees must be registered in a recognized electrical apprenticeship program, unless performing specialized work (e.g., low-voltage, signs, etc.).

Specialty Electrician Licenses:

HVAC/refrigeration systems (EL06A):  30 volts and less control, and limited line voltage work within HVAC/R systems only. Minimum experience and education requirements:

  • At least 4,000 hours of work experience in a selected specialty as an electrical trainee under the supervision of an electrician certified in the same specialty.
  • 48 hours of basic classroom instruction.
  • Trainees must be supervised at least 75% of the time.

HVAC/refrigeration – restricted (6B): 30 volts and less control and limited voltage line work within small (250 volt, 125 amp, single phase) HVAC/R systems only. Minimum experience and education requirements:

  • At least 2,000 hours of work experience in a selected specialty as an electrical trainee under the supervision of an electrician certified in the same specialty.
  • 24 hours of basic classroom instruction.
  • Trainees must be supervised at all times.

Electrical trainees who are working toward a specialty electrical certification do not need to complete an apprenticeship program at this time.

In the cities where additional HVACR licensing is required, there are different designations.

In addition to Washington’s required specialty electrical license and any applicable municipal licenses, HVAC professionals may also need an EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This certification is required for anyone who services, maintains, or disposes of equipment containing refrigerants. EPA Section 608 certification is valid nationwide and does not expire.

NATE Certification

North American Technician Excellence (NATE) is the largest nonprofit certification organization for HVAC professionals in the United States. NATE certification signals advanced technical knowledge and expertise in specific HVAC specialties and is widely recognized across all 50 states.

To prepare for an HVAC career in Washington State, key resources include enrolling in technical programs such as Perry Technical Institute or UEI College in Tacoma, which offer hands-on training.

Tips for Successfully Getting Your HVAC License

  • Confirm the appropriate specialty electrician classification before starting the licensing process.
  • Register as an electrical trainee early and keep your trainee certificate current.
  • Track work hours and required education carefully to avoid delays when applying for the exam.
  • Prepare for both the trade and code portions of the exam, with a focus on Washington regulations.
  • Check local licensing requirements in the cities where you plan to work, as additional licenses may apply.

Licensing Bonds and Insurance Requirements for Washington HVAC Contractors

  • Surety Bond: $15,000 for specialty contractors.
  • General Liability insurance: A minimum of $200,000 in public liability and $50,000 property damage, or $250,000 combined single limit in coverage is required.
  • Workers’ Compensation insurance if you plan to hire employees.

How to Obtain Necessary Bonds and Insurance

CCIS can provide you with the Surety Bond and General Liability insurance required for your HVAC license. Washington is one of four monopolistic states, so Workers’ Compensation must be purchased directly from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries rather than private insurers.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC Licenses in Washington State

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

A. You can find forms and resources on the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.

Q. How quickly can I secure the necessary bonds through CCIS Bonds for my HVAC licensing?

A. CCIS can typically provide you with a quote for the necessary bond the same day.

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 Washington State Department of Labor & Industries and applicable local jurisdictions. Consult with your legal professional concerning your compliance as to your business operations.