There is a growing demand for qualified HVAC technicians in Louisiana. If you have considered a career in the field, you may be wondering how to get started. Use this guide to learn all about how to get an HVAC license in Louisiana and get on the road to a rewarding career.
Who Needs an HVAC License?
HVAC technicians in the state do not need to be licensed. They can perform work on small HVAC projects and under the direct supervision of a licensed contractor with the appropriate sub-specialty certification.
All building licenses in Louisiana are handled by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. Within the state, anyone wanting to bid on, contract to perform, and complete commercial HVAC projects over certain financial thresholds must obtain an HVAC-specific sub-classification. They may also choose to obtain a Mechanical Contractor License with an HVAC sub-classification which allows for a wider range of work to be performed.
Louisiana HVAC license requirements apply to commercial projects with a total value (including materials and labor) of $50,000 or more or HVAC projects with a total value of $10,000 or more. The state defines HVAC work as the installation, repair, or maintenance of air conditioning, heating, ventilation, ductwork, refrigeration (including coolers and freezers), and ice rinks.
HVAC License Types in Louisiana
There are several major classifications of contractor licenses in Louisiana. Residential licenses all fall under the major classification of Residential Building Contractor. Commercial licenses are broken down into four main categories: major classifications, sub classifications, specialty classifications, and credentials.
Building construction is one of the major classifications that can allow you to perform HVAC work. Under it, you would need to take the trade exam for the Air Conditioning Work, Ventilation, Refrigeration, and Duct Work sub classification (code 7.1).
The other major classification that meets Louisiana HVAC license requirements is Mechanical Work (Statewide). There are four sub classifications under this license that may be applicable to HVAC work. They are:
- Heat, air conditioning, ventilation, ductwork, and refrigeration (code 7-20, exam required)
- Industrial pipework and insulation (code 7-23, exam required)
- Plumbing (code 11, credential only)
- Controls for mechanical work (code 7-459, no exam required)
Louisiana HVAC License Requirements
Requirements for an HVAC license in the state are relatively straightforward. The steps include:
- Submitting an application to the licensing board
- Undergoing a financial background investigation
- Verification and approval of a qualifying party (person who holds the exam scores)
- Meeting testing requirements
- Board review and approval
Applicants can learn more about how to get an HVAC license in Louisiana by visiting the LSLBC FAQ page.
Insurance Requirements
Louisiana HVAC license requirements indicate that all contractors applying for home improvement, residential, and mold remediation licenses provide proof of insurance coverage. Licenses will not be issued without this information, which should be emailed by your insurance agent to insurance@lacontractor.org. Required policies include workers’ compensation insurance and general liability insurance of at least $100,000.
Use the tool below to request a free commercial insurance quote from our partners.
Louisiana HVAC Licensing and Registration Fees
There are fees associated with obtaining a mechanical license in the state. Applicants should be prepared to pay a $120 administration fee for each classification and the Business and Law portion. These fees apply regardless of whether or not an exam is required for licensing. There is also a $60 fee to cover costs associated with conducting a background investigation.
The total fee will vary depending on the number of classifications you are applying for and whether your business is located within the state. Please keep in mind that, although these fees are accurate as of the time of writing, they are subject to change. Applicants can accurately determine their required fees by using LSLBC’s online fee schedule tool.
Louisiana HVAC License Education Requirements and Exam
There are no minimum education requirements for licensing in Louisiana. However, you may be required to pass comprehensive specialty exams. When exploring how to get an HVAC license in Louisiana, you will come across many good training programs — both in-person and online — designed to prepare you for a career in HVAC.
HVAC License Exam Details
Major classifications and several of the sub classifications related to HVAC work require examinations according to Louisiana licensing requirements.
The Business and Law exam is a short computer-based test that you take from your own computer. It generally takes less than an hour to complete.
The Mechanical Contractor/HVAC exam contains 100 questions and is a closed-book test. You will have four hours to complete the test and must score 70 or higher to pass.
You must have an Examination Approval Notice from the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors in order to register for a contractor exam. These are administered at the following testing sites throughout the state:
- Baton Rouge Testing Center, 600 North Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
- Bossier Parish Community College, 6220 E. Texas Street, Building D, Room 203, Bossier City, LA
- Delgado Community College, 980 Navarre Building 2, Room 302, New Orleans, LA 70119-4399
- Fletcher Technical Community College, 1407 Highway 311, Shriever, LA 70395
- LSU-Alexandria, Student Center, Room 204, 8100 U.S. 71, Alexandria, LA 71302
- Louisiana Delta Community College, Advanced Technology Center Building (ATC), 7500 Millhaven Road, Monroe, LA 71203
- Northshore Technical Community College, 65556 CenterPoint Blvd. Room 124, Lacombe, LA 70445
- Nunez Community College, 3710 Paris Road, Administration Building Room 120, Chalmette, LA 70043
- South Louisiana Community College-Lafayette Campus, 1101 Bertrand Drive, Lafayette, LA 70506
- SOWELA Technical Community College, Computer Center, 3820 Senator J. Bennett Johnston Avenue, Sycamore Building–Testing Center, Lake Charles, LA 70607
HVAC Training Schools in Louisiana
Individuals seeking training that will prepare them for an HVAC career in Louisiana have several choices. The following programs are all accredited by HVAC excellence:
- Baton Rouge Community College, Baton Rouge
- Central Louisiana Technical Community College, Alexandria
- Central Louisiana Technical Community College, Natchitoches
- Delgado Community College, Metairie
- Delgado Community College, New Orleans
- Fletcher Technical Community College, Thibodaux
- ITI Technical College, Baton Rouge
- Louisiana Delta Community College, West Monroe
- Northshore Technical Community College, in Bogalusa
- River Parishes Community College, Reserve
- South Louisiana Community College, Lafayette
- South Louisiana Community College, Morgan City
Great HVAC training in Louisiana can be found both in-person and online. Use our tool below to find additional programs near you.
Louisiana License Application
The Louisiana commercial and residential contractor license application processes involve several steps. To start the process, you must submit the appropriate application, a completed Financial Statement Affidavit, and a Qualifying Party Application to the LSLBC.
Louisiana uses an online application process. Read the instructions carefully before filling out your application and be sure to check it for accuracy and completeness before submitting it.
Registration and Permitting Requirements
Commercial contractors in Louisiana should also register their businesses with the Secretary of State. The process for this will vary depending on the legal business structure you choose.
Renewal Requirements
Licensed contractors will receive a renewal notice 60 days before their license expires. Renewals should include proof of current liability and worker’s compensation insurance.
Continuing Education
Commercial HVAC contractors in Louisiana do not need to complete continuing education credits. However, residential building contractors must complete six hours of continuing education annually for renewal. This must be done with a board-approved provider. Education certificates must be kept on file and provided to the board upon request for five years.
HVAC Registered Contractor Requirements in Louisiana
There are situations where an HVAC contractor in Louisiana may need to also have additional licenses. The LSLBC offers an interactive classification matrix to help you determine which classifications are best suited to the type of work you will be doing. Some of the most common major classifications, specialties, and sub-specialties that you might consider include:
- Building construction: steam and hot water heating in buildings or plants; water cooling towers and accessories
- Heavy construction: industrial ventilation
- Mechanical work: controls for mechanical work
- Commercial specialties: chimneys and fireplaces, irrigation and wastewater systems and pumps, engineered fire impression systems, and furnaces, incinerators, refractory and heat exchangers
EPA Certification in Louisiana
Any technicians handling refrigerants must obtain section 608 technician certification from the Environmental Protection Agency. This is done by taking an exam covering safe handling, use, and disposal processes. Section 608 certification does not expire. and any particulars for that state.
HVAC License Louisiana FAQ
It is common to have questions about how to get an HVAC license in Louisiana. Here are answers to the question we hear most often.
How Long Is My Louisiana HVAC License Valid?
Initial licenses are valid for one year. Contractors have the option to renew for one, two, or three years after the first year.
Can I Use My Louisiana HVAC License in the Other States?
Louisiana maintains reciprocal agreements with several other states. Contractors wishing to apply for a reciprocal license will need to apply for a Verification of License to waive the need for specialty examinations. Use the interactive map tool to determine if your out-of-state license will be honored in Louisiana.
Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors handles all questions about applying for the licensing exam and how to get an HVAC license in Louisiana. You can reach the office through an online contact form or by calling 225-765-2301 or 800-256-1392.
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 Louisiana, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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