If you're looking to invest in the HVAC industry, Texas tops the list of the best business locations. Texas' climate alternates between chilly low and extremely high temperatures, thus creating an ideal weather condition for the HVAC industry. The state has various jobs for individuals with knowledge about HVAC, and as a professional, you can get into the installation, maintenance of customer accounts, among other jobs.
You only need to be sure that the environment here is enabling, and building a successful HVAC business isn't a lengthy process. Arming yourself with the best HVAC tools might pave the way to your fortunes.
Do you wish to get into the HVAC career? This guide provides detailed information about the requirements you need to meet before getting an HVAC license in Texas. Read on to discover these requirements and the process you need to follow to get this crucial tool.
Must You Have A License To Become An HVAC Technician In Texas?
Yes. Holding an HVAC license is mandatory for anyone who wishes to become an HVAC technician or an independent HVAC contractor in the city. It would help if you also were vigilant about licenses when recruiting technicians for your HVAC business.
What Are The Types Of HVAC Licenses In Texas?
There are types of HVAC licenses that you can choose to get in Texas. They include:
- Class A license- The Class A licensee is authorized to work on any HVAC unit regardless of size. This license is best suitable for HVAC technicians who would like to handle industrial and commercial units. The holders of Class A licenses earn an average salary of about $40,000.
- Class B License- This license is similar to the Class A license, only that it limits HVAC technicians to only handling cooling systems whose weight does not exceed 25 tons or heating systems of less than 1.5 million BTUs. Class B licensees usually earn less than technicians holding Class A certifications.
- EPA and NATE certifications- A NATE license is issued by the North American Technical Excellence (NATE) organization. This certification is not a legal requirement for HVAC technicians, but having it proves your knowledge and experience as an HVAC expert. Plus, they can make you earn an extra salary between $10,000 and $20,000.
The licenses that Texas' technicians need to get include EPA refrigeration. This certification allows you to work with systems and equipment that have refrigerants. This certification, therefore, does not alter your salary or call for additional work.
What Are The Benefits Of Obtaining An HVAC License In Texas?
The current trend shows that HVAC jobs might have a projected growth of 15% in the next decade. HVAC technicians in Texas also earn slightly higher than the national average pay. Being an HVAC industrialist in Texas comes with unlimited opportunities, among them being the chance to earn while you train.
This means that you can make handsome earnings while learning to get the license. You can also work on an organized HVAC truck as part of the training and still earn, awaiting certification. HVAC apps will provide you with safety tips and update you with the latest news about this trendy industry.
Earning an HVAC license in Texas also helps you get more customers. The license informs the customers about your proficiency in HVAC jobs; thus, you can rest assured that your income generation base is firm. Customers will be confident with your skills, and they will not have any reasonable doubt when hiring you. After handling several successful projects, you will be able to create a catchy slogan for your business.
How Much Does Getting An HVAC License In Texas Cost?
The charges for Texas HVAC licenses are affordable. You only need to pay for the licensing exam, whose cost is $115. You may as well pay for the exam preparation, but this is not one of the requirements. If you fail the test, you can retake it for the same amount.
How Do You Get The Texas HVAC License?
There are a few different licensing requirements that anyone looking to get an HVAC license in Texas must fulfill. The following is the license obtainment process:
- Register as an ACR Technician. Becoming an ACR technician does not require you to take an exam. ACR registration provides you with the information you need to work under the direction and supervision of a certified HVAC technician.
- Next, take the HVAC contractor's exam. Those with criminal convictions can also take this examination. However, the licensing department may reject your application if you have a criminal record.
- To qualify for the exam, the examination board requires you to be at least 18 years old.
- The exam has no educational requirements, but you may choose to take a course at a local trade school, Southwest Texas Junior College, or Texas State Technical College.
The examination is administered by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. You may apply for the exam online, and then wait for the TRLR to contact you regarding the time and venue of the examination. Obtaining the license requires you to hit a pass-score of at least 70%. Failing to hit the passing score requires you to reschedule the exam within 24 hours.
Do You Need To Renew The Texas HVAC License?
Yes, your HVAC license is only valid for one year, and thus requires an annual renewal. The license renewal process includes an 8-hour continuing educational training session.