Become an HVAC Technician in Texas

If you want to work on air conditioning or refrigeration systems in Texas, you must register as an Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technician with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

Technicians work under a licensed HVAC contractor and assist with installation, maintenance, and repairs of HVAC systems. This registration is often the first step toward becoming a licensed HVAC contractor in Texas.

What Is an HVAC Technician Registration?

An Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technician Registration allows individuals to perform HVAC work under the supervision of a licensed contractor.

Technicians cannot:

• Operate their own HVAC business
• Advertise HVAC services
• Contract directly with customers

Only licensed HVAC contractors may offer HVAC services to the public.

Types of HVAC Technician Registrations

Texas offers two types of technician registrations.

HVAC Technician Requirements in Texas

To register as a technician you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Submit an application to TDLR
• Pass a criminal background check
• Pay the registration fee

The registration fee is $20, making it one of the easiest ways to enter the HVAC industry.

HVAC Technician Responsibilities

Registered technicians commonly perform tasks such as:

• Installing HVAC systems
• Servicing air conditioning units
• Diagnosing cooling and heating issues
• Replacing HVAC components
• Assisting contractors on job sites

All work must be performed under the supervision of a licensed HVAC contractor.

Path from Technician to HVAC Contractor

Many HVAC professionals start as technicians and later become contractors.

1. 1

   Register as an HVAC technician

   Submit your application to TDLR and begin working under a licensed contractor.

2. 2

   Gain 48 months of supervised HVAC experience

   Work under a licensed Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor.

3. 3

   Apply for a Contractor license

   Submit the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor License Application to TDLR. You will also choose between a Class A or Class B license.

4. 4

   Pass the HVAC contractor exam

   Once approved, schedule and pass your exam administered by PSI.

Once licensed, contractors can operate their own HVAC businesses in Texas. See also: HVAC Contractor License requirements and Class A vs Class B license comparison.

Why Many HVAC Workers Start as Technicians

The technician registration offers several advantages:

• Quick entry into the HVAC industry
• No licensing exam required
• Low registration cost ($20)
• Opportunity to gain required contractor experience

Many Texas HVAC contractors began their careers as technicians.

How PermitSeal Helps

PermitSeal can help guide the application process and ensure your registration is submitted correctly.

1. 1Prepare technician registration applications
2. 2Verify required documentation
3. 3Submit forms correctly to TDLR
4. 4Track application progress
5. 5Guide the path toward contractor licensing