Arizona HVAC License Requirements
Your complete guide to HVAC licensing in Arizona, including who needs a license, what it costs, and how to apply.
Arizona HVAC License Summary
- Last updated: July 31, 2026
- Written by: James R. Leichter
- Reviewed by: Aptora Staff
License Types in Arizona
C-39: Specialty Commercial Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
Covers the installation, alteration, and repair of commercial refrigeration, heating, ventilation, and evaporative cooling systems in non-residential properties.
R-39: Specialty Residential Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
Covers the installation and repair of residential comfort air conditioning, heating, ventilation, and evaporative cooling systems inside residential dwellings.
CR-39: Specialty Dual Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
Covers the full scope of both commercial and residential HVAC/R work, allowing the holder to service systems across all property types in Arizona legally.
C-79: Commercial Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Including Solar
Covers commercial refrigeration, heating, ventilation, and evaporative cooling installations, with an added provision for integrated solar-powered HVAC equipment.
R-79: Residential Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Including Solar
Covers residential comfort cooling, heating, and ventilation systems, with specific authorization to install and maintain solar-powered HVAC equipment.
Requirements Overview
Requirements may vary by license type
- Be at least 18 years old
- 4 years trade experience
- Verify lawful presence
- Pass required licensing exams
- Complete criminal background checks
- Designate qualifying party
- Obtain required surety bond
- Submit application and fees
Cost & Timeline Overview
Cost and timeline may vary by license type
$600 - $1,400
Estimated Cost Estimated upfront licensing costs
2 - 6 weeks
Estimated Timeline Typical time to complete licensing
Every 2 Years
Renewal Cycle How often renewal is required
0 Hours
Continued Education Ongoing education to maintain licensure
Average Salary & Wages for HVAC Tech in Arizona
Based on the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry reports.
$57,420
Avg. Annual Salary Average yearly earnings for an HVAC technician
$91,020+
Top Earners' Salary Potential earnings for the top 10% of HVAC techs in the field
550+
Job Openings / Year Current HVAC hiring demand based on active job listings
HVAC Technician Salary by Experience
Top HVAC Training Programs & Schools
GateWay Community College
Phoenix, AZ
The Refrigeration School, Inc.
Phoenix, AZ
Arizona Western College
Yuma, AZ
Pima Community College
Tucson, AZ
National Technical Institute
Phoenix, AZ
Vocational Training Institute
Phoenix, AZ
East Valley Institute of Technology
Mesa, AZ
Coconino Community College
Flagstaff, AZ
Cochise College
Sierra Vista, AZ
Arizona State Apprenticeship Office
Phoenix, AZ
Reciprocity
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Arizona offers out-of-state trade exam waivers through its universal recognition law or formal agreements with CA, NV, and UT, provided the applicant holds a clean 1-year license.
Local Permits & Rules
Cities and counties may have additional permit requirements.
Common Mistakes
- Filing an application with incomplete background checks
- Miscalculating the required surety bond amount
- Forgetting to name a qualified qualifying party
- Missing the biennial license renewal deadline date
