Colorado HVAC License: How to Become an HVAC Professional

Jul 6, 2023 15 min read

Does Colorado require an HVAC license?

Colorado doesn’t have an official HVAC license at the state level. However, different cities and counties in Colorado have their own rules for licensing HVAC work.

Since Denver is the biggest city in Colorado, we’ll focus on explaining the steps you need to take to get an HVAC license there. We’ll also give you some info about the process in other major cities in the state.

Licensing and registration in Colorado are overseen by the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). In Denver, the Denver Mile High City regulates HVAC licenses, Pikes Peak Regional Building Department regulates HVAC licensing in Colorado Springs, and the City of Aurora regulates HVAC licensing in Aurora.

Here are the types of work that a fully-licensed HVAC professional can do:

Installation and repair of heating systems
Installation and repair of air conditioning systems
Installation and repair of ventilation systems
Maintenance and servicing of HVAC equipment
Troubleshooting and diagnosing HVAC system issues
Properly handling refrigerants and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations
Ductwork installation and repair
Balancing and adjusting HVAC systems for optimal performance
Ensuring compliance with building codes and safety regulations related to HVAC installations

Please note that the specific scope of work may vary depending on the city or county in Colorado where you are practicing, as licensing requirements can differ. It is important to check with the local authorities to understand the exact limitations and regulations that apply in your area.

Working without an HVAC license in Colorado can result in legal penalties, lack of insurance coverage, consumer complaints, difficulty obtaining permits, limited job opportunities, and damage to your professional reputation.

It is crucial to obtain the necessary license and comply with regulations to avoid these consequences.

Types of HVAC licenses in Colorado

Different cities have their own specific licenses for different types of HVAC work. The table below breaks down the licenses required in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Aurora.

Denver:

License Type	Description
Heating and Ventilating Journeyman	License holders may perform the following HVAC work: • Installation of warm air heating systems, ductwork, ventilation, evaporative cooling, exterior sheet metal, water heaters (up to 100 MBtu input), gas piping, burners, venting, controls, exhaust systems, and related components. • Installation of air conditioning systems, refrigeration systems, cooling towers, pipe insulation, and low-voltage wiring (up to 48 volts) not enclosed in a conduit or raceway. It’s important to note that license holders can only perform this work if they are employed by a Heating and Ventilating Contractor Class A.
Heating and Ventilating Class A Supervisor	License holders may perform the following HVAC work: • Installation, addition, alteration, or repair of warm air heating systems, venting, ventilation, evaporative cooling, exhaust systems, ductwork, dust collection systems, domestic and commercial range hoods, water heaters (not exceeding 100 MBtu input), gas piping, burners, controls, venting, trash and laundry chutes, exterior sheet metal, duct insulation, and low-voltage wiring (up to 48 volts) not enclosed in a conduit or raceway. • Additionally, license holders are allowed to work with a maximum of 50 tons of refrigeration when used for comfort cooling, as long as the refrigeration system is self-contained and does not involve pre-charged lines or separate air-cooled condenser or chilled water systems.License holders may perform HVAC work independently, including installation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC systems.
Heating and Ventilating Class B Supervisor – Residential Only	License holders may perform the following HVAC work specifically in one- or two-family dwellings, IRC townhomes, or U Occupancies: • Installation, addition, alteration, or repair of warm air heating systems, including their components such as ductwork, ventilation, evaporative cooling, duct insulation, exterior sheet metal, gas piping, burners, venting, controls, water heaters (not exceeding 100 MBtu input), and low-voltage wiring (up to 48 volts) that is not enclosed in a conduit or raceway. Installation, addition, alteration, or repair of air conditioning systems with refrigeration systems of 5 tons or less.
HVAC – Residential Only	License holders may perform the following HVAC work specifically in one- or two-family dwellings, IRC townhomes, or U Occupancies: • Installation, addition, alteration, or repair of warm air heating systems, including their components such as ductwork, ventilation, evaporative cooling, duct insulation, exterior sheet metal, gas piping, burners, venting, controls, water heaters (not exceeding 100 MBtu input), and low-voltage wiring (up to 48 volts) that is not enclosed in a conduit or raceway. • Installation, addition, alteration, or repair of air conditioning systems with refrigeration systems of 5 tons or less.
Refrigeration Class A Supervisor	License holders may install, add to, alter, or repair refrigeration systems and appurtenant cooling towers, pipe insulation, and low-voltage wiring that does not exceed 48 volts and is not enclosed in a conduit or raceway.
Refrigeration Class B Supervisor – Residential Only	License holders may perform the following HVAC work specifically in Group one- and two-family dwellings, townhouses, and Group U Occupancies: • Installation, addition, alteration, or repair of refrigeration systems consisting of self-contained units with a capacity of 5 tons or less. • Installation of pre-charged systems that use Group 1 Refrigerants. • Installation of gas-fired absorption chillers. It’s important to note that all such work must be carried out under the on-site supervision of a Class A or B Refrigeration Supervisor Certificate holder.
Refrigeration Journeyman	License holders may perform the following HVAC work: Installation of refrigeration systems and associated cooling towers. • Installation of pipe insulation. • Installation of low-voltage wiring (up to 48 volts) that is not enclosed in a conduit or raceway. It’s important to note that license holders can only perform this work when employed by a Refrigeration Contractor Class A or B.
Refrigeration Operator	License holders may take charge of and operate mechanical refrigeration systems.

Colorado Springs

License Type	Description
Mechanical Contractor A (Commercial)	License holders may perform the installation, replacement, service, and repair of gas piping, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems in any type or size of structure permitted by the applicable building code.
Mechanical Contractor B (Residential)	License holders may obtain permits and perform the installation, replacement, service, and repair of gas piping, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems in one- and two-family dwellings, as well as accessory structures that are not more than three (3) stories tall. It is also required for employees working under the license holder to possess the appropriate licenses to carry out these tasks on the systems and equipment involved.
Commercial Refrigeration Contractor	License holders may perform the installation, replacement, service, and repair of commercial refrigeration systems.
Residential Maintenance/Repair and Replacement Contractor	License holders may perform the installation, replacement, service, and repair of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems on existing systems in one- and two-family dwellings, as well as accessory structures that are not more than three (3) stories tall.
Mechanical Contractor D (Manufactured Buildings)	License holders may perform the installation of Manufactured Buildings regulated in accordance with Section RBC309 of the applicable building code. They are also authorized to carry out the installation, replacement, or service and repair of gas piping, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems within these structures. It is important to note that employees of the contractor must possess the appropriate licenses to ensure their capability in installing, replacing, servicing, and repairing these systems and equipment.
Heating Mechanic IV (HVAC Service Technician)	License holders may engage in the repair and servicing of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment and systems, provided they are employed by, and under the direction of a Mechanical Contractor A, B, C (except for Residential Remodeling), or D. The scope of work for the license holder is limited to the specific equipment and systems identified within their employer’s mechanical contractor license(s). Additionally, the license allows for the repair of gas piping system leaks that do not require altering or completely replacing the piping.

Aurora

License Type

Description

Mechanical systems contractor

License holders may engage in the installation, removal, alteration, and repair of various heating and cooling systems. The scope of allowable work encompasses warm air heating, venting, evaporative and refrigeration cooling, exhaust systems and their associated components, steam and hot water systems, process piping and related accessories, fuel gas piping, refrigeration systems, and related accessories.

How do I get an HVAC license in Colorado?

As you can see, there are different licenses to become an HVAC technician in Colorado. For all regional licenses specifically referencing refrigeration, applicants must also obtain a license from the EPA.

Let’s break down the steps for licenses in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Aurora:

Denver:

License Type	Steps
Heating and Ventilating Journeyman	• Complete four years or 7,000 hours in an apprenticeship or on-the-job training program. • Provide a single notarized letter that includes detailed information about your experience, including the scope of work, duties, projects performed, equipment operated, start and end dates of construction work, and addresses for each project completed within the last ten years, ensuring enough projects are listed to meet the required experience. • Write and pass the ICC Exam #F31 National Standard Journeyman Mechanical. • Complete the application form and pay the application fee.
Heating and Ventilating Class A Supervisor	• Complete eight years in commercial heating & ventilating work. • Provide a single notarized letter that includes detailed information about your experience, including the scope of work, duties, projects performed, equipment operated, start and end dates of construction work, and addresses for each project completed within the last ten years, ensuring enough projects are listed to meet the required experience. • Write and pass the ICC Exam #F29 National Standard Master Mechanical. • Complete the application form and pay the application fee.
Heating and Ventilating Class B Supervisor – Residential Only	• Complete six years in commercial heating & ventilating work. • Provide a single notarized letter that includes detailed information about your experience, including the scope of work, duties, projects performed, equipment operated, start and end dates of construction work, and addresses for each project completed within the last ten years, ensuring enough projects are listed to meet the required experience. • Write and pass the ICC Exam #F32 National Standard Residential Mechanical (Class C). • Complete the application form and pay the application fee.
HVAC – Residential Only	• Complete six years in commercial heating & ventilating work. • Provide a single notarized letter that includes detailed information about your experience, including the scope of work, duties, projects performed, equipment operated, start and end dates of construction work, and addresses for each project completed within the last ten years, ensuring enough projects are listed to meet the required experience. • Write and pass the ICC Exam #F32 National Standard Residential Mechanical (Class C). • Complete the application form and pay the application fee.
Refrigeration Class A Supervisor	• Complete eight years in refrigeration field installation. • Provide a single notarized letter that includes detailed information about your experience, including the scope of work, duties, projects performed, equipment operated, start and end dates of construction work, and addresses for each project completed within the last ten years, ensuring enough projects are listed to meet the required experience. • Write and pass the ICC Exam #F29 National Standard Master Mechanical. • Complete the application form and pay the application fee.
Refrigeration Class B Supervisor – Residential Only	• Complete six years in refrigeration field installation work. Provide a single notarized letter that includes detailed information about your experience, including the scope of work, duties, projects performed, equipment operated, start and end dates of construction work, and addresses for each project completed within the last ten years, ensuring enough projects are listed to meet the required experience. • Write and pass the ICC Exam #F32 National Standard • Residential Mechanical (Class C). • Complete the application form and pay the application fee.
Refrigeration Journeyman	• Complete four years in refrigeration field installation work. • Provide a single notarized letter that includes detailed information about your experience, including the scope of work, duties, projects performed, equipment operated, start and end dates of construction work, and addresses for each project completed within the last ten years, ensuring enough projects are listed to meet the required experience. • Write and pass the ICC Exam #F31 National Standard Journeyman Mechanical. • Complete the application form and pay the application fee.
Refrigeration Operator	• Complete three years in refrigeration operation work as a trainee or apprentice on refrigeration systems of all types. Provide a single notarized letter that includes detailed information about your experience, including the scope of work, duties, projects performed, equipment operated, start and end dates of construction work, and addresses for each project completed within the last ten years, ensuring enough projects are listed to meet the required experience. • Write and pass the ICC Exam #228 Colorado (Denver) Refrigeration Operator. • Complete the application form and pay the application fee.

Colorado Springs:

License Type	Steps
Mechanical Contractor Licenses (all)	• Complete the application form and pay the application fee. • Submit your Driver’s License. • Write and pass the ICC National Standardized Contractor Exam. • Show proof of Liability Insurance Certificate.
Heating Mechanic Licenses (all)	• Complete the application form and pay the application fee. • Submit your Driver’s License. • Write and pass the ICC National Standardized Contractor Exam. • Attach a copy of your Combustible Gas Indicator Certificate and Carbon Monoxide Detection Instrument Certificate.

Aurora:

License Type	Steps
Mechanical systems contractor	• Obtain your ICC Mechanical “B” Contractor Certification. • Submit a references list. • Complete the application form and pay the application fee.

All forms and documents for Denver can be submitted online or mailed to the following address:

Denver:

Contractor Licensing
201 W. Colfax Ave.
Dept. 205
Denver, CO 80202

All forms and documents for Colorado Springs and Aurora can be mailed to the following address:

Colorado Springs:

2880 International Cr.
Colorado Springs, CO 80910

Aurora:

Building Division
15151 E, Alameda Parkway
Ste 2400
Aurora, CO 80012

Colorado HVAC license exam

These exams ensure that HVAC technicians in the state have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their jobs safely and effectively. By passing the appropriate exams, applicants demonstrate that they have a comprehensive understanding of HVAC systems, codes, regulations, and safety practices.

All exams have a passing score of 70% or higher.

Exam Type	Description
F29 National Standard Master Mechanical	• 100 Multiple choice questions • Open book – 4 hour time limit • Topics: – General Requirements – Appliances and Equipment – Exhaust and Ventilation Systems – Duct Systems – Chimneys and Vents – Fuel Supply Systems – Special Requirements – Electrical
F31 National Standard Journeyman Mechanical	• 50 multiple choice questions • Open book – 3 hour limit • Topics: – General Requirements – Appliances and Equipment – Exhaust and Ventilation Systems – Duct Systems – Combustion Air – Chimneys and Vents – Fuel Supply Systems – Special Requirements – Electrical
F32 National Standard Residential Mechanical – Class C	• 70 multiple choice questions • Open book – 3 hour time limit • Topics: – General Requirements – Appliances and Equipment – Duct Systems – Combustion Air – Chimneys and Vents – Fuel Supply Systems
ICC Exam #228 Colorado (Denver) Refrigeration Operator	• 50 multiple choice questions • Open book – 2.5 hour limit • Topics: – Theory, Terminology and General Requirements – Compressors and Types of Systems – Evaporators, Condensers and Cooling Towers, – Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning – Piping Inspection and Field Testing – Air Ducts and Insulation – Electrical and Controls – Refrigerants – Operation Procedures – Maintenance and Repairs
ICC National Standardized Contractor Exam	• 90 multiple choice questions • Open book – 4 hour time limit • Topics: – Administration General Regulations – Plan Reading – Building Planning and Life Safety – Structural Systems – Building Envelope

You can register for any exam here.

Does Colorado reciprocate HVAC licenses?

No, Colorado does not reciprocate any HVAC licenses at this time.

HVAC license reciprocity agreements are designed to make it easier for licensed HVAC professionals to work across state lines without having to go through the entire licensing process again.

How much is an HVAC license in Colorado?

The cost to become an HVAC technician depends on the type of licenses you need. You can expect to pay at least $255-$386 for exam, license, and renewal fees. You must also purchase a $3,000 surety bond and a Certificate of Liability insurance that covers up to $500,000. These need to be in effect for the entire two-year period of your license.

Here’s how the costs break down for Denver, Colorado Springs, and Aurora:

Denver:

Fee type	Cost
Exam fee	$115
Supervisor Certificate license / renewal fee	$60
Journeyman Certificate license / renewal fee	$40
Operator Certificate license / renewal fee	$40
Total	$255

Colorado Springs:

Fee type	Cost
Exam fee	$115
Mechanical contractor application / processing fee	$50
Mechanical contractor license fee	$100
Heating mechanic application and processing fee	$50
License fee	$10
Heating mechanic renewal fee	$10
Total	$235

Aurora:

Fee type	Cost
Exam fee	$115
License fee	$143
Total	$258

Colorado HVAC license renewal

In Denver, licenses must be renewed every three years. You can renew your license online or by mail with this renewal form.

In Colorado Springs, licenses must be renewed annually. Licenses can be renewed online.

In Aurora, licenses must be renewed every three years. You can renew your license online or by mail with this renewal form.

What happens if my HVAC license expires?

If you think your HVAC license has expired, stop performing any HVAC work. You will not be able to legally work as an HVAC technician until your license is renewed. It is important to keep your HVAC license up-to-date to avoid any legal consequences, including fines of hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the offense.

In Denver and Aurora, licenses must be renewed every three years, and Colorado Springs, they must be renewed every year.

In most other cities in Colorado, if you fail to renew your license within 45 days after it expires, you’ll have to pay a penalty. If you renew it within 90 days, the penalty will be 50% of the license fee. If you renew it between 90 and 135 days, the penalty will be the same as the license fee. If you renew it between 135 and 180 days, the penalty will be twice the license fee. If you wait more than 180 days to renew, you’ll need to pay all the fees, go through the application and examination process again, and get approval from the Board of Review.

Renew your license in Denver.

Renew your license in Colorado Springs.

Renew your license in Aurora.

Requirements for HVAC business owners

Getting your Colorado HVAC license is a great first step that will benefit your financial future. And if you’re looking to take it to the next level, you can start your own HVAC business.

Workers’ compensation insurance is required for all employers operating in Colorado, with a few limited exceptions listed on our Independent Contractors and Coverage Exemptions page. If you do not have workers’ compensation insurance, you can be fined up to $500 for every day you are uninsured.

Here are six steps for starting an HVAC business:

Choose an HVAC business name
Register, license, and insure your HVAC business
Get funding for your HVAC business
Create your HVAC services list
Buy HVAC tools and equipment
Price your HVAC services for profit

Now, you’re ready to start your HVAC career in Colorado! If you need to, refer back here for more information about HVAC licenses or business support.

Does an HVAC license in Colorado increase your earning potential?

Yes, an HVAC license in Colorado can increase your earning potential. Entry-level HVAC technicians in Colorado make about $37,039, while HVAC technicians with 3-5 years of experience can make up to $45,281, and $50,663 with 6-9 years of experience.

If you want to find out more about increasing your earning potential in this lucrative industry, check out our Essential HVAC Salary Guide for 2023.