Maryland requires state licensing at every tier from apprentice to Master, making it one of the most comprehensive individual-technician licensing systems in the US. Extensive reciprocity agreements cover neighboring Mid-Atlantic states.
Journeyman: 3 years licensed apprenticeship plus 1,875 hours. Master: 3 years as journeyman plus 1,875 hours in prior year plus exam.
Yes — separate exams for journeyman and master levels. 70% passing score.
Contact the board directly to verify current CE requirements
Yes — Delaware lists Maryland as a full reciprocity partner. Maryland also has reciprocal agreements with several Mid-Atlantic states. Contact BHVACR for current list.
Reciprocity agreements can change. Always verify current status directly with Maryland Board of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors before relying on reciprocity for licensure.
Maryland requires licensure at every tier, including apprentices — one of the few states where even a trainee must hold a state license. Master and Limited Contractor licensees must maintain general liability insurance ($300,000 per occurrence minimum) and property damage coverage ($100,000 minimum).
EPA 608 Certification — Required in All 50 States
Regardless of Maryland'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 MarylandMaryland's Board of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors (BHVACR) administers separate exams for journeyman and master levels, both requiring a 70% passing score. Maryland is one of the few states that requires individual technicians — not just contracting businesses — to hold a state license, with apprentices also required to register. The journeyman exam covers Maryland mechanical codes, refrigeration systems, and electrical fundamentals; the master exam adds business law, contractor regulations, and insurance requirements. Delaware recognizes Maryland as a full reciprocity partner.
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Last verified: 2026 · Always confirm current requirements with your state licensing board before starting work or submitting an application.
Maryland Board of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors (BHVACR) — Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
Visit official board websiteApproximate first-attempt pass rate: ~63% first-attempt pass rate for the journeyman exam based on board data trends
