KENTUCKY · hvac
Master HVAC Contractor
Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction — HVAC Licensing DivisionScope of work
Kentucky requires a Master HVAC Contractor license to operate an HVAC business, a Journeyman HVAC Mechanic license to install, repair, and maintain HVAC systems under master supervision, or a registered apprentice designation for trainees. Source: 815 KAR 8:010 (https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/kar/titles/815/008/010/).
Experience and training
Under 815 KAR 8:010, one year of HVAC experience consists of a minimum of 1,500 hours of HVAC work in a continuous 12-month period. A Master HVAC Contractor applicant must document 4 years (approximately 8,000 hours) of practical HVAC experience under a licensed HVAC Master Contractor. A Journeyman HVAC Mechanic applicant must document at least 3,000 hours and 2 years of experience under a licensed master contractor. Source: 815 KAR 8:010 (https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/kar/titles/815/008/010/).
Exam
Administered by the DHBC's contracted provider (currently PSI Services; verify before scheduling). Master exam fee is $80; Journeyman exam fee is $80. A minimum passing score as published by the provider applies. Source: KY DHBC Testing (https://dhbc.ky.gov/Documents/KHBC_PROV_Testing.pdf).
Fees
Annual Master HVAC Contractor renewal fee is $250. Journeyman initial license application fee is $50 for the 12-month license. Confirm current fees on the DHBC page before remitting. Source: 815 KAR 8:010 (https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/kar/titles/815/008/010/).
Renewal and CE
Annual renewal by the last day of the licensee's birth month. Both Master HVAC Contractors and Journeyman HVAC Mechanics must complete 6 hours of continuing education each year. Source: KY DHBC (https://dhbc.ky.gov/).
EPA 608 federal overlay
A Kentucky HVAC license does not substitute for federal EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, which is required under the Clean Air Act for any technician who maintains, services, repairs, or disposes of stationary equipment containing regulated refrigerants. EPA recognizes Type I, Type II, Type III, and Universal. Section 608 certifications do not expire. Source: EPA Section 608 (https://www.epa.gov/section608).
Verified Apr 25, 2026 · compiled from public sources, verify current rules with Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction — HVAC Licensing Division before acting