If you aspire to become a licensed HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) contractor in the state of Florida but lack experience in the field, it's still possible to achieve your goal. HVAC contractors are in high demand due to the state's climate, making it a lucrative career option. In this article, we will outline the specific requirements and steps to obtain an HVAC license in Florida without any prior experience.

Requirements:

• Educational Requirement: Florida requires all HVAC contractors to have a minimum of four years of experience in the field, but there are alternative paths for those without experience.
• Licensing Authority: The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is the governing body responsible for issuing and regulating HVAC licenses in the state.
• License Types: Florida offers two main types of HVAC licenses: Registered and Certified. You can apply for a Registered A/C contractor license without experience, and then work towards becoming a Certified contractor.

Steps to Become an HVAC Licensed Contractor:

1. Register as an A/C Contractor: To start your HVAC career, you can apply for a Registered A/C Contractor license. While you may not need experience, you will need to meet other criteria, including:
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a valid Social Security number.
• Submit fingerprints for a background check.
• Pass a state-certified 14-hour HVAC course, which can be taken at various educational institutions and online.
• Pass the Florida HVAC Contractor Exam.
2. Gain Practical Experience: Once you hold a Registered A/C Contractor license, you can work under the supervision of a Certified HVAC contractor. During this time, you will accumulate the required four years of practical experience.
3. Upgrade to a Certified License: After completing the required experience, you can apply for a Certified HVAC Contractor license. Additional requirements include:
• Completion of a 16-hour Florida-approved Advanced HVAC course.
• Passing the Florida Certified HVAC Contractor Exam.

Education and Class Attendance:

Education is a key component of becoming an HVAC contractor in Florida. The state requires individuals to pass specific courses related to HVAC systems. These courses are often offered by technical schools, community colleges, and trade schools. While class attendance is typically recommended, some institutions also offer online courses, which can be convenient for individuals who need flexibility in their schedules.

It's important to note that class attendance may be mandatory for certain courses, especially for the initial 14-hour HVAC course required for the Registered A/C Contractor license. However, for the 16-hour Advanced HVAC course necessary for the Certified license, some institutions offer online options, allowing you to complete the coursework remotely.

Exam Without Class Attendance:

While class attendance is often encouraged for better understanding and preparation, it is possible to write the required exams without attending in-person classes, especially for the Advanced HVAC course. Online courses and study materials are available to help you prepare for the Florida HVAC Contractor Exams.

Keep in mind that self-study and online courses may require additional discipline and dedication to ensure you are well-prepared for the exams. You should also check with the specific educational institution offering the course to confirm their policies regarding attendance and exam preparation.

In conclusion, becoming an HVAC licensed contractor in Florida without any prior experience is achievable through the Registered A/C Contractor license route. By meeting the educational requirements, gaining practical experience, and passing the required exams, you can work your way towards becoming a Certified HVAC contractor in the Sunshine State.

Last Update: September 2023