Tennessee requires a state contractor license for HVAC projects bidding at $25,000 or more, with a 73% passing score on both the trade and business/law exams — slightly above the 70% standard in most states.
Generally 3 years of HVAC experience. For local journeyman licenses (some Tennessee cities): minimum 8,000 hours (4 years) plus 576–900 hours of classroom instruction.
Yes — two exams: Tennessee HVAC/Refrigeration Trade Exam and Tennessee Business and Law Exam. 73% passing score. Application fee: $250; trade exam: $106; B&L exam: $53.
Contact the Board for Licensing Contractors for current CE requirements
Yes — Louisiana has reciprocity with Tennessee; Kentucky also provides reciprocity to Tennessee. Contact the Board for full current reciprocity list.
Reciprocity agreements can change. Always verify current status directly with Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance — Board for Licensing Contractors before relying on reciprocity for licensure.
Tennessee's $25,000 project threshold is important — smaller residential service jobs may not require a state license. The 73% passing score is slightly higher than the 70% standard in most states. Nashville and Memphis have additional local journeyman licensing requirements.
EPA 608 Certification — Required in All 50 States
Regardless of Tennessee'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 TennesseeNew listings matching your preferences, delivered daily — free.
Every listing on HVACJobs.IO shows the actual salary — no "competitive pay" guessing.
Last verified: 2026 · Always confirm current requirements with your state licensing board before starting work or submitting an application.
Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance — Board for Licensing Contractors
Visit official board website