HVAC Contractor License Massachusetts
Massachusetts licenses HVAC contractors as Refrigeration Contractors through OPSI. You’ll need 2,000 journeyman hours, 100 hours of approved education, a passing exam score, and to follow sheet metal business rules for ductwork. Applications run through Mass.gov with biennial online renewal.
To get a HVAC contractor license in Massachusetts, you actually obtain the state’s Refrigeration Contractor (Master Refrigeration Technician) license through OPSI. Qualify with 2,000 hours as a licensed Journeyman Refrigeration Technician plus 100 hours of approved education, apply via Mass.gov, pass the written exam (70%+), and renew biennially. 528 CMR 11.03; Mass.gov.
Requirements last verified: 2026-10-15
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Licensing agency | Office of Public Safety and Inspections (OPSI), Division of Occupational Licensure — Bureau of Pipefitters, Refrigeration Technicians, and Sprinkler Fitters. Bureau page. |
| License name/scope | Master Refrigeration Technician / Refrigeration Contractor — may operate a business and employ licensed personnel for refrigeration work. 528 CMR 11.03(3); Mass.gov how-to. |
| Application fee | $150 non‑refundable processing fee (check or money order to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts). Mass.gov; Application form. |
| Experience | At least 2,000 hours of work experience as a Massachusetts Journeyman Refrigeration Technician. 528 CMR 11.03(3). |
| Education | 100 hours of additional Bureau‑approved refrigeration education beyond journeyman. 528 CMR 11.03(3). |
| Exam | Written exam; minimum passing score 70%. Scheduling after OPSI approval (typically 4–8 weeks). 528 CMR 11.03; timeline per Mass.gov. |
| Minimum age | Not expressly specified in 528 CMR 11.03; applicants must meet journeyman licensing prerequisites first. Regulation. |
| Insurance/bond | No state bond is specified for Refrigeration Contractors in 528 CMR 11.03; separate Sheet Metal Business licensing and local permit insurance may apply for ductwork. Sheet Metal Workers Licensing; M.G.L. c.112 §239. |
| Renewal | Biennial renewal through MyLicenseOne/OPSI. Fees are set under M.G.L. c.146 §85 and EOAF 801 CMR 4; amount shown in the renewal portal. Renewal portal guidance; M.G.L. c.146 §85. |
How to get a HVAC contractor license in Massachusetts
- Confirm your journeyman status. You must already hold a Massachusetts Journeyman Refrigeration Technician license before moving up to Refrigeration Contractor. See prerequisites in 528 CMR 11.03.
- Complete 100 hours of approved education. Take Bureau‑approved advanced refrigeration coursework beyond journeyman. Keep transcripts for upload. Regulation.
- Document 2,000 hours of experience. Accrue and verify 2,000 hours as a Massachusetts journeyman; employer verification must include the contractor’s license number. 528 CMR 11.03.
- Apply to OPSI. Submit the Refrigeration Contractor application in the MyLicense portal or by mail with a 2"×2" photo, education proof, and $150 fee. Mass.gov application instructions.
- Wait for exam authorization. OPSI typically emails authorization 4–8 weeks after receipt. Mass.gov timeline.
- Pass the exam (70%+). Take the written exam; passing triggers license issuance via email. Exam standard; issuance.
- Mind sheet metal rules for ductwork. If your firm fabricates/installs duct systems, obtain the Sheet Metal Business License and designate a Master Sheet Metal Worker per statute. Board page; M.G.L. c.112 §239.
- Renew every two years. Renew online through MyLicenseOne; renewal fees are set under state law/regulation and shown at checkout. Renewal guidance; M.G.L. c.146 §85.
Massachusetts HVAC contractor license requirements explained
Massachusetts regulates “HVAC contractors” through the Refrigeration Contractor license. You’ll need 2,000 post‑journeyman hours, 100 hours of advanced education, and a passing exam score. The license allows you to run a business and employ licensed personnel for refrigeration work. 528 CMR 11.03; Mass.gov.
Journeyman to contractor: experience and education
Only hours worked while properly licensed and employed under a Massachusetts Refrigeration Contractor count toward your total, and schools must verify your transcript on the Bureau form. 528 CMR 11.03(2), (3).
Sheet metal licensing when your HVAC work includes duct systems
Installing or fabricating HVAC ductwork requires licensure under the Board of Examiners of Sheet Metal Workers. Businesses bidding or pulling permits for sheet metal work must hold a Sheet Metal Business License with a designated Master Sheet Metal Worker. Sheet Metal licensing; Consumer fact sheet; M.G.L. c.112 §239.
Costs and timeline
Plan for a $150 application fee, exam after OPSI approval in roughly 4–8 weeks, and biennial renewal online. For a complete cost breakdown across schooling, exam prep, and business licensing, see our detailed analysis of HVAC contractor license costs in Massachusetts. Application and timing details: Mass.gov.
Upcoming change affecting HVAC trainees
If you still need your Journeyman Refrigeration Technician license, note the updated education paths: applications dated on or after November 9, 2026 require a formal 450‑hour course plus 6,000 apprentice hours; earlier applications may qualify under prior hour options. 528 CMR 11.03(2).
Exploring business opportunities beyond HVAC? Our guide to the Massachusetts real estate license shows another path with clear steps and costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a “HVAC contractor” license by that exact name in Massachusetts?
No. Massachusetts uses the Refrigeration Contractor (Master Refrigeration Technician) license for refrigeration/HVAC mechanicals, plus separate Sheet Metal licenses for ductwork. 528 CMR 11.03; Sheet Metal licensing.
What are the exact prerequisites to sit for the Refrigeration Contractor exam?
Hold a Massachusetts Journeyman Refrigeration Technician license, complete 2,000 additional journeyman hours, and finish 100 hours of Bureau‑approved refrigeration education before applying. 528 CMR 11.03(3).
What score do I need to pass the contractor exam?
At least 70% on the written examination. 528 CMR 11.03.
How long does OPSI take to approve my exam application?
OPSI typically emails authorization about 4–8 weeks after receiving a complete application and fee. Mass.gov.
Do I need a separate business license for ductwork?
Yes. Companies engaging in sheet metal (HVAC duct) work must hold a Sheet Metal Business License and designate a Master Sheet Metal Worker responsible for the work. Board page; M.G.L. c.112 §239.
Ready to move forward? License Navigator can help you map your exact steps, budget your fees, and stay compliant from apprentice through contractor.
Want it filed for you? Talk to a licensing expert
Published by
About this publication
Licensing Navigator researches business licensing requirements and organizes them into practical, state-by-state guidance. Our pages are research aids, not legal advice.