California HVAC License Requirements (2025 Guide)

Do you need an HVAC license in California?

Yes. If you install, repair, or service heating, ventilation, or air conditioning systems on projects worth $500 or more (including labor and materials), California law requires a contractor’s license.

The C-20 Warm-Air Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning Contractor License is issued by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). It proves that you’re qualified to design, install, and maintain HVAC systems safely and professionally.

To qualify, you’ll need:

• 4 years of journeyman-level HVAC experience
• To pass two exams: Law & Business and C-20 Trade
• To submit fingerprints for a background check

Related guide:

If you also work in plumbing, check out our California plumbing license requirements.

Step-by-step: How to get your C-20 HVAC license in California

Follow these steps to get licensed and start working legally in the state.

1. Meet eligibility requirements

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a valid Social Security Number or ITIN
• Document 4 years of HVAC work experience at journeyman level or higher

If you’re short on experience, you can combine education (from a trade school or apprenticeship) with verified work hours.

2. Submit your application

Complete the Application for Original Contractor License from the CSLB website.
Include:

• Proof of work experience
• Employment history with verified references
• The $450 application processing fee

Mail your packet to the CSLB headquarters in Sacramento.

3. Pass both required exams

After your application is approved, schedule your exams through PSI Services.

You’ll take:

• Law and Business Exam: covers contracts, safety, workers’ compensation, and business practices
• C-20 HVAC Trade Exam: focuses on system design, installation, maintenance, and energy efficiency

Each exam has 100–120 questions. You’ll receive your results the same day.

4. Complete background check and fingerprinting

The CSLB requires fingerprinting for all new licensees.

Schedule a Live Scan appointment at an authorized center. Fees typically range from $50–$75.

5. Pay your license activation fee

Once you pass your exams, submit the $200 initial license fee to activate your C-20 license.

You’ll then receive your official California HVAC contractor license.

6. Maintain your license

Keep your license in good standing by:

• Renewing every two years
• Maintaining a $25,000 contractor bond
• Updating the CSLB when your business address or structure changes

California HVAC license costs (2025 estimate)

How long does it take to get an HVAC license in California?

Most applicants receive their license in 6–10 weeks from submission, depending on:

• How quickly you complete fingerprinting
• Availability of exam dates
• Accuracy of your application

Tip: Start collecting proof of experience early to avoid processing delays.

License renewal and continuing requirements

California HVAC licenses must be renewed every two years.

To keep your license active:

• Submit your renewal application before expiration
• Maintain a valid contractor bond
• Keep insurance coverage current

Late renewals can result in extra fees or suspension of your license, so set a reminder on your calendar—or better yet, automate it with a business app like Housecall Pro.

Common licensing questions

Use the CSLB license lookup tool to confirm active status, insurance, and disciplinary history.

Yes, if you can document at least four years of equivalent experience and provide references.

Yes. California offers limited reciprocity with Arizona, Louisiana, and Nevada for some classifications.

No. If you’re an employee working under a licensed business, you’re covered by that company’s license.

After licensing: tools to grow your HVAC business

You’ve earned your license—now it’s time to make the business side run smoother.

Housecall Pro helps California HVAC contractors:

• Schedule and dispatch jobs faster
• Send estimates and collect payments in one place
• Track job history and customer communication
• Stay organized on desktop or mobile—right from the field

“I used to lose hours a week on paperwork. Now I send estimates and get paid before I leave the driveway.” — Anthony S., HVAC Pro, Dade Super Cool Air Conditioning

Related guides:

• Texas HVAC License Requirements
• Florida HVAC Contractor License Guide

Start running your HVAC business like a pro

You’ve got the skills—and now the license.

Housecall Pro gives you everything to run and grow your business with less stress and more visibility.

• Online scheduling and dispatch
• Mobile invoicing and payments
• Customer reviews and repeat business tools

Trusted by 200K+ home service Pros across 50+ trades.