HVAC technicians are in high demand in Mississippi, making it an attractive career path for many people. We have put together this comprehensive guide to provide everything you need to know about how to get an HVAC license in Mississippi.
Who Needs an HVAC License?
There are different requirements for who needs an HVAC license in Mississippi, depending on whether the work being performed is for residential or commercial projects.
For commercial jobs over $50,000, all contractors and subcontractors performing work must have a commercial license issued by the Mississippi State Board of Public Contractors. This includes mechanical work such as installing or repairing HVAC systems. In addition, a contractor must receive a Mechanical or HVAC contractor certification added to their license to perform this work.
Contractors performing residential construction over $50,000, remodeling or additions over $10,000, and roofing over $10,000 must obtain an appropriate Mississippi contractor’s license. However, there is no statewide residential HVAC contractor license. This instead is governed at the local county or city level.
HVAC License Types in Mississippi
There are two main categories of Mississippi contractor licenses issued — commercial and residential. In addition, contractors may choose to add specialty classifications to their primary licenses. Some of these require exams, while others do not. However, according to Mississippi HVAC license requirements, the HVAC specialty certification does require a state-level exam.
Commercial HVAC Contractor Certification
Commercial contractors performing HVAC work that requires a license issued by the MSBOC have two main options. They can pursue a Major Mechanical Contractor license, which allows the contractor to perform the following types of work:
- Air pollution control
- boiler installation and repair
- Cathodic protection
- Ductwork (for HVAC systems)
- Fueling systems
- Heating, air-conditioning, and ventilation systems
- Mechanical instrumentation, controls, and energy management
- Insulation — pipes and ductwork
- irrigation systems
- Millwright
- Plumbing
- Process piping
- Underground utilities
- Welding
Instead of a major mechanical license, a contractor may select one of the specialty certifications listed above. This is an easier path; however, it may limit your work opportunities. Additionally, there is a fee for each specialty certification added to your original license.
Residential HVAC Contractor Certification
Since there is no statewide HVAC licensing, individuals wanting to know how to get an HVAC license in Mississippi will have to seek to license with local municipalities where they will perform HVAC work. These generally follow the Mississippi HVAC license requirements for mechanical contractors. Applications for the cities of Gulfport and Ocean Springs provide excellent examples.
Specialty Certifications
Contractors may opt to add specialty certifications to their contractor’s license. This is done by completing the Application for Additional Certification, showing competence in the specialty through exam scores or work experience, and paying a fee.
Mississippi HVAC License Requirements
The requirements for how to get an HVAC license in Mississippi are relatively straightforward. First, applicants must show proof of work experience that enables them to perform the work being performed. Additionally, they must apply for and pass the HVAC technician exam. Applications, exam scores, and supporting documentation are then reviewed by the Mississippi State Board of Public Contractors.
Insurance Requirements
One of the requirements that must be met for a commercial HVAC license is sufficient liability insurance. To meet Mississippi HVAC license requirements, the policy must provide coverage of at least $300,000 per occurrence ($600,000 aggregate) and list MSBOC on the policy documents. Failure to maintain this coverage will result in your license being revoked.
Additionally, all contractors with five or more employees must maintain workers’ compensation insurance.
Use the tool below to request a free commercial insurance quote from our partners.
Mississippi HVAC Licensing and Registration Fees
Fees for licenses granted through MSBOC range from $25 for verification of a reciprocal license to $400 for a new commercial contractor license. Additional classifications on an existing license are $100 each. Exam fees are additional to all licensing fees. A few examples of commonly paid fees — as of the time of writing — include:
- Commercial applicaiton: $400
- Commercial renewal: $400
- Residential application: $50
- Residential renewal: $100
- Additional classifications: $100
Fees can be paid with a check or money order made out to the Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC). Commercial applications must be notarized and are therefore ineligible for online submission. Send completed applications, payment, and supporting materials to:
MSBOC
P.O. Box 320279
Jackson, MS 39232-0279
Mississippi HVAC License Education Requirements and Exam
There are no minimum education requirements for HVAC licensing in Mississippi. However, an exam is required, and the MSBOC recommends taking a test prep course before attempting the exam. There are many good online and in-person training programs that can help applicants prepare for an HVAC career in the state.
HVAC License Exam Details
PSI administers all Mississippi contractor exams. They are computer-based and can be taken at any of PSI’s computer-based testing centers throughout the state.
Everyone applying for a license must pass the Mississippi Law and Business Management exam. Other exams may be required based on the certification you are applying for. There are exams specific to HVAC and different types of mechanical work. Alternately, contractors can choose to take the Major Mechanical exam.
Once you submit your application to MSBOC, they supply your information to PSI. At that point, you will be provided with a PSI Candidate Information Bulletin containing all the information necessary for preparing for and scheduling your exam. You may not register for an exam until that step is complete and PSI has been provided with your information.
Although the MSBOC does not endorse any exam prep programs, they do offer contact information for the following programs:
- American Contractors – 1-800-992-1910
- Mississippi Contractor Licensing Service – 1-800-432-9930
- Builders License Training Institute – 1-800-727-7104
- My Contractors License – 1-877-699-0775
- Contractors Institute – 1-804-556-5518
- Rocket Cert, LLC – 1-800-495-6612
HVAC Training Schools in Mississippi
There is no formal requirement for HVAC training in Mississippi; however, many people interested in an HVAC career choose to pursue a training program. These are available both in-person and online, including at the following schools:
- Ashworth College, Olive Branch, MS 38654
- Copiah Lincoln Community College-Natchez, Natchez, MS, (601) 446-1165
- Copiah Lincoln Community College-Wesson, Wesson, MS, (601) 643-5101
- Delta Technical College, Southaven, MS, (866) 673-3582
- East Central Community College, Decatur, MS, (601) 635-1211 Ext 214
- Hinds Community College, Raymond, MS, (601) 857-5261
- Holmes Community College, Goodman, MS, (662) 472-9092
- Itawamba Community College, Tupelo, MS, (662) 620-5157
- Jones County Junior College, Ellisville, MS, (601) 477-4075
- Meridian Community College, Meridian, MS, (601) 483-8241
- Mississippi Delta Community College, Moorhead, MS, (662) 246-6322
- Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Gulfport, MS, (228) 897-3778
- Northeast Mississippi Community College, Booneville, MS, (662) 728-7751
- Northwest Mississippi Community College, Senatobia, MS, 662) 562-3200
- Pearl River Community College, Poplarville, MS, (601) 403-1000
- Remington College, Jackson, MS, (866) 893-0703
- Southwest Miss. Community College, Summit, MS, (601) 276-2000
Great HVAC training can be found both in-person and online. Use our tool below to find additional programs near you.
Mississippi License Application
The MSBOC processes all contractor licenses in Mississippi. Applicants must complete and submit the appropriate residential or commercial licensing form. This form must be notarized, so online submission is not allowed.
Required information may vary based on the type of license being applied for; however, you should be prepared with the following:
- Current contact information
- Certificates of insurance for liability and worker’s compensation
- Letters of reference
- Audited financial statements (commercial only)
- Exam scores or proof of an equivalent license from a reciprocating state
- Work history showing experience in the field
- Proof of employment
Registration and Permitting Requirements
The Mississippi State Board of Public Contractors provides excellent information about how to get an HVAC license in Mississippi on its website. In addition, there are several easy-to-navigate videos covering most topics related to the application process and licensing requirements.
License Renewals
Mississippi contractor licenses must be renewed annually. There is a fee of $400 to renew commercial licenses and $100 to renew residential licenses. Renewals can be done online or by using paper forms. All supporting documentation and fees should be submitted with the application. In addition, contractors must complete two hours of continuing education for residential renewals.
HVAC Registered Contractor Requirements in Mississippi
HVAC certification is a specialty certification that can be obtained individually or as part of a general contractor license. Contractors wishing to perform work outside of the scope of HVAC systems may choose to pursue additional certifications.
EPA Certification in Mississippi
Section 608 of the Clean Air Act, first enacted in 1970, requires anyone handling refrigerants to obtain certification in safe handling practices. This is done by passing an exam designed to test knowledge about working with refrigerators. Although it is not part of the formal Mississippi HVAC license requirements, any HVAC technicians or contractors should obtain section 608 EPA certification.
HVAC License Mississippi FAQ
There are many steps involved in obtaining a Mississippi HVAC contractor’s license. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear about the process.
How Long Is My Mississippi HVAC License Valid?
Mississippi contractor licenses are valid for one year. They can be renewed starting 60 days before and up to 180 days after expiration. Late fees will apply if a license expires.
Can I Use My Mississippi HVAC License in the Other States?
Mississippi has generous reciprocity agreements with other states. However, it is important to know that you will still need to pass the Business Management and Law portions of the Mississippi contractor exam to receive a reciprocal license verification review.
Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
You can direct any questions about how to get an HVAC license in Mississippi, including about licensing requirements or the application process, to the Mississippi State Board of Contractors at 2679 Crane Ridge Drive, Suite C, Jackson, MS 39216. They can be reached by phone at (60) 354-6161 or (80) 880-6161 or email at info@msboc.us.
For More License and Career Guides
To find out how to become an HVAC-R technician in another state, start here.
For information on other trades in Mississippi, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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