Rhode Island HVAC contractors enjoy average annual earnings of nearly $84,000 according to Salary.com. If you’re interested in pursuing this in-demand trade career, start with this guide on how to get an HVAC license in Rhode Island.
Who Needs an HVAC License?
Rhode Island requires HVAC contractors to have a license under the Mechanical Trades category of the Division of Workforce Regulation and Safety, Professional Regulations Unit.
HVAC License Types in Rhode Island
The state has several available license types for HVAC professionals:
- Contractor Master Pipefitter (CMP)
- Contractor Master Refrigeration (CMR)
- Refrigeration Master 1 (RM1)
- Refrigeration MASTER 2 (RM2)
- Pipefitter Master 1 (PM1)
- Pipefitter Master 2 (PM2)
- Refrigeration Journeyperson I (RJ1)
- Refrigeration Journeyperson II {RJ2)
- Pipefitter Journeyperson I PJ1
- Pipefitter Journeyperson II PJ2
Rhode Island HVAC License Requirements
To get a Rhode Island HVAC contractor license, you must fill out the state board application, provide required documentation and fees, and pass an exam.
Insurance Requirements
You must also provide proof of insurance to get your Rhode Island HVAC license. All contractors who work in the state must have coverage of at least $500,000 for property damage and professional liability. Use the tool below to request a free commercial insurance quote from our partners.
Rhode Island HVAC Licensing and Registration Fees
In addition to the Rhode Island HVAC license requirements, the state charges an application fee and a license fee for each HVAC license type as follows:
- CMP/CMR/PM1/RM1: $75 application fee, $240 license fee ($315 total)
- RM2/PM2: $75 test fee, $96 license fee ($171 total)
- PJ1, RJ1: $75 test fee, $65 license fee ($140 total)
- PJ2, RJ2: $75 test fee, $60 license fee ($135 total)
The state does not require a background check. While these fees are current for 2022, they are subject to change.
Rhode Island HVAC License Education Requirements and Exam
Whether you pursue a pipefitter or refrigeration license in Rhode Island, you must start by apprenticing in the trade. The state requires completion of an apprenticeship program covering at least 4,000 hours of paid training and 144 hours of HVAC education over 24 months. You can also complete some of the education requirements at a technical school.
Next, you can become a journeyman class II with another 4,000 hours of paid job experience. At this stage, you must also complete 288 related education hours each year. A class I journeyman has 10,000 hours of paid job experience and 144 hours of education each year or apprentices under a state-licensed HVAC master.
Finally, you can graduate to become a master contractor. A master II has been a journeyperson class II for three or more years at a regular business location. A master I completes a year as a journeyperson class I or master class II.
To reach master limited status, you must also earn a bachelor’s of science degree in mechanical engineering, business administration, or a closely related discipline. You must also have at least four years of refrigeration or pipefitting experience.
HVAC License Exam Details
According to the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, you must take the Mechanical Trade exam to obtain your license in the Pipefitters, Welders, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Mechanic industry. After DLT receives your completed application, the agency will contact you with details about scheduling an exam. You can call DLT for more information at 401-462-8000.
HVAC Training Schools in Rhode Island
Options for HVAC training in Rhode Island include:
- New England Institute of Technology, East Greenwich, (401) 739-5000
- New England Tractor Trailor Training School, Pawtucket, (401) 725-1220
- The Rhode Island Construction Training Academy, Pawtucket, (401) 438-7400
Great HVAC training can be found both in-person and online. Use our tool below to find additional programs near you.
Rhode Island HVAC License Application
You can obtain a professional HVAC license application through the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training. Required information and documents include:
- A copy of your driver’s license or government ID, or a 2×2″ passport photo
- A completed, signed, and notarized license application
- A check or money order for $75, but you can pay the application fee by credit card if you visit DLT in person
- A notarized statement of your work experience on company letterhead and signed by your employer
- Copies of your trade licenses and license verification forms from other states if applicable
- A Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship from DLT
Registration and Permitting Requirements
You must renew your Rhode Island HVACR contractor license every two years by your birth date.
EPA Certification in Rhode Island
Rhode Island HVAC technicians must obtain Section 608 EPA certification. You can seek one of three different certifications depending on the exact type of work you will do. To get certified, you must complete an exam of 80 multiple choice questions with at least 70% correct. The fee for state EPA certification is $120.
HVAC License Rhode Island FAQ
How Long Is My Rhode Island HVAC License Valid?
Your Rhode Island HVAC license is valid for two years.
Can I Use My Rhode Island HVAC License in the Other States?
Some states may allow you to practice HVAC work with your Rhode Island license. For example, HVAC workers do not need a license in Colorado, Wyoming, Illinois, Vermont, Indiana, South Dakota, Kansas, New York, Maine, New Hampshire, Minnesota, Nebraska, or Missouri. However, Rhode Island does not have a specific reciprocity arrangement.
Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
If you need assistance with your Rhode Island HVAC license, you can contact the state DLT Division of Workforce Regulation and Safety, Professional Regulation Unit. The phone number is (401) 462-8580.
Now that you know how to get an HVAC license in Rhode Island, you’re ready to take the next step toward your professional future.
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 Rhode Island, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
Call Us