HVAC contractor license cost in

Expect to pay a $110 application fee to the Georgia State Board of Conditioned Air Contractors, an exam fee to PSI at scheduling, and a $100 renewal fee every two years. Add minor costs for a background check and required CE (4 hours/year). Business registration with the Board is $0. Official how‑to guide; state fee report; PSI bulletin.

Requirements last verified: 2026-10-02

How to get your Georgia HVAC (Conditioned Air) license — step by step

1. Confirm eligibility. Make sure you meet the experience requirement (4 years Class I; 5 years Class II) and gather three qualified references. Review scope: Class I is limited to ≤175,000 BTU heat/≤60,000 BTU cool; Class II is unrestricted. Rule 121‑3.
2. Complete prerequisites. Obtain EPA 608 (Type II+) and the required HVAC design course certificates (Manuals J&D; plus N&Q for Class II). SOS how‑to guide.
3. Apply online in GOALS. Submit the licensure‑by‑examination application with the $110 fee and all documents (references, background check, SVD/affidavit). Official instructions.
4. Wait for Board approval. Processing typically runs about 20 business days after a complete file. Processing timeline.
5. Schedule and take the PSI exam. Use the PSI portal once you receive the Board’s approval email; pay PSI’s exam fee at registration and sit for the Class I or II exam. PSI handbook.
6. Register your business. After passing, submit the no‑fee Board business registration to associate your qualifying licensee and obtain a registration number for vehicles and ads. Business Registration; display rule.
7. Maintain and renew. Complete 4 CE hours per year and renew by November 30 of odd‑numbered years; pay the $100 renewal fee (late window through Dec 31 with added fee). CE rule; renewal fee; renewal calendar.

HVAC contractor license cost in Georgia: all-in breakdown

Most candidates will pay three core items to become licensed:

• $110 state application fee (paid with your GOALS application). Source.
• PSI exam fee (amount shown when you schedule with PSI). Source.
• $0 Board business registration to qualify your company. Source.

Ongoing costs include $100 biennial renewal and affordable continuing education (4 hours/year; provider pricing varies). State fee report; CE rule.

Georgia conditioned air license types and what they cover

Georgia issues two HVAC contractor credentials: Class I (Restricted) for systems ≤175,000 BTU heat and ≤60,000 BTU cool, and Class II (Non‑restricted) with no size limit. Your experience requirement (4 vs. 5 years) and pre‑exam coursework differ by class. Official rule.

Renewal timing, CE, and penalties that affect your costs

Licenses expire November 30 in odd‑numbered years; there’s a late window through December 31. Budget 4 CE hours annually (PEs are exempt). Missing deadlines can add late fees and, after lapsing, reinstatement costs ($310 within 3 years; re‑exam required after 3 years). Renewal/Reinstatement; CE rule.

Do Georgia HVAC contractors need insurance or a bond?

The state license itself does not require proof of GL insurance or a bond. However, cities/counties can require a local bond unless you’ve filed a $10,000 bond under O.C.G.A. §43‑14‑12(b)(2). Always verify local permit office rules to avoid surprise costs. AG Op. 95‑7; SB 125 (2025).

Related Georgia licensing cost guides to compare

If you’re expanding services or opening a multi‑trade firm, it helps to compare other Georgia licensing cost structures. For investigative services, see our guide to the Georgia private investigator license requirements and fees. Moving companies face different filings; review our Georgia movers license cost and steps to plan cash flow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total cost to get licensed as a Georgia HVAC contractor?

Plan for the $110 state application fee, the PSI exam fee at scheduling, background check and notarization costs, and $0 for Board business registration. After licensure, renewal is $100 every two years, plus the cost of 4 hours/year of CE. SOS guide; renewal fee.

How often do I pay the renewal fee, and when?

Every two years. All conditioned air licenses expire November 30 of odd‑numbered years; late renewal runs Dec 1–31 (odd years). The renewal fee is $100. Renewal timing; fee; calendar.

Is there a state insurance or bond requirement for the HVAC license?

No state GL or bond requirement for the conditioned air contractor license itself. Local jurisdictions may require a bond unless you file the optional statewide $10,000 bond under O.C.G.A. §43‑14‑12(b)(2). AG Op. 95‑7.

What are the experience and coursework requirements?

Class I requires 4 years’ experience; Class II requires 5 years. Both classes require EPA 608 (Type II+), Manuals J & D; Class II also requires Manuals N & Q. Three professional references are required. Rule 121‑3; Board FAQ; how‑to guide.

How long does approval take before I can schedule the PSI exam?

Once your application is complete, the state notes about 20 business days for processing before approval to test, though timing can vary with Board meeting dates and application volume. Processing timeline.

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