Kentucky's three-tier system (Apprentice → Journeyman → Master) requires separate licenses for field work and contracting. 6 hours of CE per renewal cycle and reciprocity agreements with neighboring states are notable features.
Journeyman: minimum 3,000 work hours and 2 years under a licensed master contractor, or 4 years in a jurisdiction without licensing requirements. Master: 2 years as a licensed Kentucky journeyman under a licensed master contractor.
Yes — Journeyman and Master exams. Master exam: 100 questions, 4-hour time limit. 70% passing score. Exam fee: $80.
6 hours per renewal cycle
Yes — Kentucky accepts licenses from several states and provides reciprocity to Tennessee. Contact DHBC for current list.
Reciprocity agreements can change. Always verify current status directly with Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction before relying on reciprocity for licensure.
Kentucky requires both a Journeyman license to work in the field and a Master license to operate a contracting business. The Master must hold general liability insurance of at least $500,000. Journeyman renewal fee: $50; Master renewal fee: $250.
EPA 608 Certification — Required in All 50 States
Regardless of Kentucky'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 KentuckyKentucky DHBC administers separate Journeyman and Master HVAC exams. The Master exam consists of 100 questions with a 4-hour time limit and an $80 exam fee, requiring a 70% passing score. The Journeyman exam covers technical HVAC fundamentals, while the Master exam adds Kentucky contractor law, business practices, and the insurance requirements for operating an HVAC contracting business. Both field technicians (Journeyman) and business owners (Master) must hold their respective Kentucky licenses — working in the field without a Journeyman license is a separate violation from operating a contracting business without a Master license.
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Last verified: 2026 · Always confirm current requirements with your state licensing board before starting work or submitting an application.
Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) — Division of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
Visit official board websiteApproximate first-attempt pass rate: ~68% first-attempt pass rate for the Journeyman exam; slightly lower for Master due to added business law content
