California requires a state-level hvac technician license. The licensing authority is California Contractors State License Board. The median salary is $63,450 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
California requires a hvac technician to hold a state license. Install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Licensing is administered by the California Contractors State License Board.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | High school diploma or GED |
| Work Experience | 8,000 hours (48 months) |
California requires passing the California HVAC Technician Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $60.
| Exam Name | California HVAC Technician Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | EPA Section 608 Certification / IMC |
| Application Fee | $60 |
Practice with real exam-style questions based on the EPA Section 608 Certification / IMC.
Start Practice Exam — $2.99 →Getting licensed as a hvac technician in California takes 48 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $60 and renewal fees of $60 every 2 years. Continuing education of 16 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $60 |
| License Renewal | $60 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 16 hours |
HVAC Technicians in California earn a median salary of $63,450, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024. Once licensed, hvac technicians in California handle projects with real cost variation by region — see HVAC project costs in California.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in California |
| National average | $59,210 |
Yes — California requires a state-level hvac technician license. Install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
The required exam is the California HVAC Technician Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $60.
The median annual salary for hvac technicians in California is $63,450. The national median is $59,210.
California requires 16 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 36 months. The typical path takes 48 months including experience requirements.