Ohio HVAC License Requirements
Your complete guide to HVAC licensing in Ohio, including who needs a license, what it costs, and how to apply.
Ohio HVAC License Summary
- Last updated: August 20, 2026
- Written by: James R. Leichter
- Reviewed by: Aptora Staff
License Types in Ohio
HVAC Contractor
Covers installing, maintaining, repairing, and altering commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems and equipment.
Refrigeration Contractor
Covers installing, servicing, repairing, and altering commercial mechanical refrigeration systems, equipment, and associated piping.
Hydronics Contractor
Covers installing, altering, and repairing water-based heating and cooling systems, including boilers, chilled water lines, and radiant loops.
Requirements Overview
Requirements may vary by license type
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold legal U.S. work status
- 5 years trade experience
- Pass BCI FBI background check
- Pass trade and business exams
- Hold $500,000 liability insurance
- Carry workers’ compensation, if applicable
- Submit application and fees
Cost & Timeline Overview
Cost and timeline may vary by license type
$260 - $550
Estimated Cost Estimated upfront licensing costs
1 - 3 Months
Estimated Timeline Typical time to complete licensing
Every 1 - 3 Years
Renewal Cycle How often renewal is required
8 Hours
Continued Education Ongoing education to maintain licensure
Average Salary & Wages for HVAC Tech in Ohio
Based on the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry reports.
$66,000
Avg. Annual Salary Average yearly earnings for an HVAC technician
$98,310+
Top Earners' Salary Potential earnings for the top 10% of HVAC techs in the field
1,340+
Job Openings / Year Current HVAC hiring demand based on active job listings
HVAC Technician Salary by Experience
Top HVAC Training Programs & Schools
Columbus State Community College
Columbus, OH
Cuyahoga Community College
Cleveland, OH
Sinclair Community College
Dayton, OH
Owens Community College
Perrysburg, OH
Stark State College
North Canton, OH
Belmont College
St. Clairsville, OH
Terra State Community College
Fremont, OH
Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 189 JATC
Columbus, OH
UA Local 392 JATC
Cincinnati, OH
Fortis College
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Reciprocity
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Ohio offers HVAC contractor reciprocity with states like KY, WV, SC, TN, LA, and AL for contractors licensed by examination.
Local Permits & Rules
Cities and counties may have additional permit requirements.
Common Mistakes
- Missing the annual or triennial renewal deadline
- Not completing required live or webinar CE
- Letting mandatory liability insurance policy lapse
- Forgetting required local municipal registrations
- Submitting incomplete OCILB license applications
