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How to get a HVAC technician license in Massachusetts

Requirements, license levels, and the issuing authority — sourced from Massachusetts's official board.

State refrigeration license is triggered by systems over 10 tons in the aggregate; smaller/other HVAC work and ductwork fall under other trades (Sheet Metal) or local rules. Refrigerant work requires federal EPA Section 608 certification.

Issuing authority: Massachusetts Division of Occupational Licensure (DOL), Office of Public Safety and Inspections (OPSI) - Bureau of Pipefitters, Refrigeration Technicians, and Sprinkler Fitters. Official page: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/bureau-of-pipefitters-refrigeration-technicians-and-sprinkler-fitters

License levels in Massachusetts

Massachusetts HVAC technician licensing at a glance

RequirementsRefrigeration Technician: 6,000 hours worked in MA as a licensed OPSI Refrigeration Apprentice under a MA Refrigeration Contractor, plus not less than 450 hours of approved study; pass the DOL/OPSI (PSI-administered) exam with a minimum score of 70%.
ReciprocityLimited; evaluated by the Bureau.
RenewalBiennial renewal for pipefitter/refrigeration technician/sprinkler fitter licenses.
NotesState refrigeration license is triggered by systems over 10 tons in the aggregate; smaller/other HVAC work and ductwork fall under other trades (Sheet Metal) or local rules. Refrigerant work requires federal EPA Section 608 certification.

Questions

Do you need a license to work as a HVAC technician in Massachusetts?
State refrigeration license is triggered by systems over 10 tons in the aggregate; smaller/other HVAC work and ductwork fall under other trades (Sheet Metal) or local rules. Refrigerant work requires federal EPA Section 608 certification.
What HVAC technician license levels does Massachusetts have?
The levels are Refrigeration Apprentice, Refrigeration Technician (required for refrigeration work over 10 tons in the aggregate), Refrigeration Contractor (regular place of business; may employ licensed personnel), Sheet Metal Worker (ventilation/ductwork - separate trade).
How do you get licensed as a HVAC technician in Massachusetts?
Refrigeration Technician: 6,000 hours worked in MA as a licensed OPSI Refrigeration Apprentice under a MA Refrigeration Contractor, plus not less than 450 hours of approved study; pass the DOL/OPSI (PSI-administered) exam with a minimum score of 70%.
Does Massachusetts have HVAC technician license reciprocity?
Limited; evaluated by the Bureau.

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All Massachusetts trades pages

Sources: www.mass.gov · www.mass.gov · www.mass.gov. Always confirm current requirements with the issuing authority.

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