Florida requires a state contractor license through DBPR with 4 years of verified experience and a rigorous two-part exam. The Certified tier allows statewide work; the Registered tier is limited to specific jurisdictions.
Minimum 4 years of HVAC experience at journeyman level or above, verified by employer affidavits. Up to 3 years may be substituted by an accredited trade school or college degree.
Yes — Trade exam (Class A: 130 questions, 7.5 hours; Class B: 80 questions, 5 hours) plus Business and Finance exam. 70% passing score. Administered by Prometric.
14 hours every 2 years
Limited — CILB has reciprocity agreements with Louisiana, North Carolina, and Mississippi. Out-of-state contractors may apply for licensure by endorsement but the Business and Finance exam is still required.
Reciprocity agreements can change. Always verify current status directly with Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation before relying on reciprocity for licensure.
Florida's "Registered" license is county/municipality-specific; a "Certified" license allows statewide work. Most commercial employers require the Certified license. Florida is a major HVAC market due to climate; licensing is rigorously enforced.
EPA 608 Certification — Required in All 50 States
Regardless of Florida's state licensing rules, any technician who purchases, handles, or works with regulated refrigerants must hold EPA Section 608 certification. This is a federal requirement under the Clean Air Act that no state law can waive. EPA 608 Universal (covering Type I, II, and III) is the most versatile credential for most HVAC roles.
Browse EPA 608 Universal jobs in FloridaFlorida's CILB air conditioning exam is administered by Prometric and is among the longest in the country: Class A is 130 questions over 7.5 hours; Class B is 80 questions over 5 hours. Both exams are open-book and require a 70% passing score. Candidates must pass a separate Business and Finance exam on the same or a different day.
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Last verified: 2026 · Always confirm current requirements with your state licensing board before starting work or submitting an application.
Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) — Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB)
Visit official board websiteApproximate first-attempt pass rate: Approximately 50–55% first-attempt pass rate; the length and complexity of the Class A exam contribute to a lower-than-average initial pass rate
