Texas HVAC / Mechanical Contractor License Cost & Requirements (2026)
Detailed fee schedule, PSI examination costs, surety bond thresholds, and state regulatory compliance guidelines for hvac / mechanical contractors in Texas.
Texas HVAC / Mechanical Contractor Fee Estimator
Official regulatory breakdown for Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) Contractor
Texas requires a $25,000 surety bond. The typical premium is approx $250/year.
Itemized Fee Schedule
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All applications and exams must be registered directly with this board.
Regulatory & Licensing Requirements Summary
| Official License Classification | Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) Contractor |
| Minimum Verified Experience | 4 Years (Journeyman / Field Supervisor) |
| Mandatory State Surety Bond | $25,000 Bond Required |
| General Liability Insurance | $300,000 - $1,000,000 coverage minimum |
| Estimated Application Processing Time | 3 - 5 weeks |
| Renewal Cycle & CE Requirement | Every 1 year(s) with 8 hours of Continuing Education |
Warning: Unlicensed Contracting Penalties in Texas
Class C to Class A Misdemeanor, fines up to $5,000 per violation, and immediate stop-work orders.
Note: Unlicensed contractors in Texas typically lose all legal standing to file mechanic's liens or sue for non-payment in civil courts.
Special Statutory Notes for Texas
Administered by TDLR. Class A allows any size unit; Class B limits heating to 50k BTU/hr and cooling to 25 tons.
Texas regulates trade contractors through TDLR and TSBPE (Plumbers). General contractors are primarily registered at municipal/city levels (Austin, Dallas, Houston).
Texas HVAC Licensing FAQ
How much does a HVAC / Mechanical Contractor license cost in Texas?
The official government filing and licensing fees for a HVAC / Mechanical Contractor in Texas total approximately $189. This consists of a $50 application fee, a $74 examination fee, and a $65 initial license fee. If a surety bond is required ($25,000), expect an additional $250/year for the bond premium.
How long does it take to get a HVAC / Mechanical Contractor license in Texas?
On average, the processing time through Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR) takes 3 - 5 weeks, assuming your proof of 4 years of qualifying trade experience and background check are submitted correctly.
What are the penalties for working as an unlicensed HVAC in Texas?
Texas enforces strict penalties: Class C to Class A Misdemeanor, fines up to $5,000 per violation, and immediate stop-work orders.
How often do you need to renew a HVAC license in Texas?
Licenses must be renewed every 1 year(s) with a renewal fee of $65. You must also complete 8 hours of approved Continuing Education (CE).