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
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

